> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.imperialcad.app/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.imperialcad.app/general/getting-started/joining-a-community.md).

# Joining a Community

Whether you're a civilian, officer, dispatcher, or firefighter. joining a community on ImperialCAD is quick and simple.

### Step 1: Create an Account

Before you can join any community, you **must first create an ImperialCAD account**.\
👉 [Click here to view the Account Creation Guide](/general/getting-started/creating-an-account.md)

> You'll use this account to access the CAD, get department permissions, and receive in-game data if your community supports integrations.

***

### Step 2: Open the User Portal

Once your account is created:

1. **Login** to your ImperialCAD account.
2. Click your **username** at the top-right corner of the landing page.
3. Select [**Portal**](https://imperialcad.app/portal) from the dropdown.
4.

```
<figure><img src="/files/izqcvJ2QuUMpSP6Wqro2" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
```

5. In the Portal, click **Join A Community** (blue door icon).
6.

```
<figure><img src="/files/kC2Ehg4kw1XJKIcPxPt5" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
```

***

### Step 3: Join with a Community Key

* Enter the **Community Key** provided by your server staff or admins.
* Press **Enter** to confirm.

<figure><img src="https://1018438778-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FUjyhcGcaldx04RpxDf1p%2Fuploads%2FKmbxCWd9FSmLiVn20Xml%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=2156c0f8-4e05-48b6-86fd-f1f44e995235" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* You’re now linked to the community and can be assigned to departments by their staff.

> ✅ Once joined, permissions will be granted based on your community’s setup; either via manual assignment, Permission Keys, or automatic roles (if Discord sync is enabled).

***

### 🔗 Alternate: Use a Direct Invite Link

Some communities may also send you a **direct invite link**. Clicking this will:

* Automatically join you to the correct community,
* Skip the need for a manual key.

***

### 🛠️ Need Help?

If you have any issues joining a community, contact your server admin first. For CAD-specific issues, you can open a ticket on [our Discord](https://discord.com/invite/imperialsolutions).