# Request a Creator License

To create and manage Hub content, you need a **Creator license**. By default, new AGOL users receive a Viewer license, which only allows browsing content. This chapter explains how to request an upgrade.

## Understanding License Types

| License | What You Can Do | Who Needs It |
|---------|-----------------|--------------|
| **Viewer** | Browse maps, view dashboards, download data (if permitted) | Anyone who only consumes content |
| **Creator** | Create maps, publish data, build apps, manage groups, create Hub sites | Hub Stewards, Data Curators, content publishers |
| **GIS Professional** | Advanced spatial analysis, editing, ArcGIS Pro integration | GIS specialists with complex analysis needs |

```{important}
For Hub management, **Creator** is the minimum required license. Request this if you plan to create content, manage groups, or administer a Hub site.
```

## Before You Request

Confirm you've completed the planning steps in {doc}`prerequisites`:

- [ ] Purpose statement defined for your Hub
- [ ] User types identified
- [ ] Hub Steward assigned (this may be you)
- [ ] Initial content plan outlined

## How to Request a License

1. **Send an email to GeoLab:**

   `geolab@worldbank.org`

2. **Use a clear subject line:**

   `AGOL Creator License Request - [Your Country/Project Name]`

3. **Include this information in your email:**

   - Your full name and WB email address
   - Your current AGOL username (visible in your profile)
   - The license type you need (typically **Creator**)
   - A brief description of your intended use (1-2 sentences)
   - Whether you need additional permissions (group creation, Hub administration)

## What to Expect

| Step | Typical Timeframe |
|------|-------------------|
| **Request received** | Same day confirmation |
| **Review** | 1-2 business days |
| **License assigned** | You'll receive an email notification |

## Verify Your License Upgrade

Once you receive confirmation:

1. **Sign in** to `https://geowb.maps.arcgis.com`

2. **Click your profile icon** and select **Settings**

3. **Check "User Type"** — it should now show **Creator**

4. **Verify capabilities:**
   - You can see a **Create** button in the top navigation
   - You can access **Content** > **My Content** to manage your items
   - You can create new groups from **Groups** > **Create Group**

## Troubleshooting

| Issue | Solution |
|-------|----------|
| **Can't see Create button after upgrade** | Sign out completely, clear browser cache, sign back in |
| **Missing specific permissions** | Email GeoLab specifying exactly what action is blocked |
| **Error when creating groups** | Confirm group creation permission was included in your request |

## Outcome

After completing these steps, you have:

- [ ] A Creator license (or higher) assigned to your account
- [ ] Permissions to create groups and manage content
- [ ] Hub administration rights (if requested)
- [ ] Verified your new capabilities in AGOL

## Next Steps

With your Creator license active, proceed to {doc}`create-hub` to set up your Hub site.