How to create a bootable macOS installer

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting for creating a bootable macOS installer.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

Creating a bootable macOS installer allows you to install macOS on multiple devices or perform a clean installation. This guide provides detailed instructions on how to create a bootable installer using different methods, ensuring compatibility with various macOS versions.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before you begin creating a bootable macOS installer, ensure you have the following:
  • •A Mac computer running macOS (10.13 High Sierra or later) with at least 15GB of available storage.
  • •A USB flash drive with a minimum of 16GB capacity, formatted as 'Mac OS Extended (Journaled)'.
  • •Administrator access to the Mac to run Terminal commands.
  • •Backup any important data on the USB drive, as it will be erased during the process.

Method 1: Using Terminal

This method is the most common and allows for precise control over the installation process. It is suitable for users comfortable with command-line tools.
  • •Step 1: Download the macOS installer from the App Store. Open the App Store, search for the desired macOS version, and click 'Get'.
  • •Step 2: Insert the USB flash drive and open 'Disk Utility' (Applications > Utilities > Disk Utility). Select the USB drive, click 'Erase', choose 'Mac OS Extended (Journaled)' as the format, and click 'Erase'.
  • •Step 3: Open 'Terminal' (Applications > Utilities > Terminal) and enter the following command, replacing 'MyVolume' with the name of your USB drive: `sudo /Applications/Install\ macOS\ [Version].app/Contents/Resources/createinstallmedia --volume /Volumes/MyVolume` Press 'Enter' and enter your administrator password when prompted.
  • •Step 4: Wait for the process to complete. You should see a message indicating that the USB drive is now a bootable installer.
  • •Step 5: To verify it worked, restart your Mac while holding the 'Option' (⌥) key. You should see the USB drive as a bootable option.
  • •Step 6: If it doesn't work, ensure the USB drive is properly formatted and that you have the correct macOS installer downloaded.

For macOS Ventura (13) and later

If you are using macOS Ventura or later, the command remains the same, but ensure you have the latest version of the installer downloaded.
  • •Use the command: `sudo /Applications/Install\ macOS\ Ventura.app/Contents/Resources/createinstallmedia --volume /Volumes/MyVolume`.

For macOS Monterey (12)

For Monterey, the command is similar but ensure you have the correct installer.
  • •Use the command: `sudo /Applications/Install\ macOS\ Monterey.app/Contents/Resources/createinstallmedia --volume /Volumes/MyVolume`.

Method 2: Using Disk Creator

This method is ideal for users who prefer a graphical interface over command-line tools. Disk Creator simplifies the process of creating a bootable installer.
  • •Step 1: Download and install 'Disk Creator' from the official website: [Disk Creator](https://macdaddy.io/disk-creator/).
  • •Step 2: Open Disk Creator and select the macOS installer you downloaded earlier from the dropdown menu.
  • •Step 3: Choose your USB drive from the list of available drives.
  • •Step 4: Click 'Create Installer' and confirm the action. Enter your administrator password when prompted.
  • •Step 5: Wait for the process to complete. A confirmation message will appear once the USB drive is ready.
  • •Step 6: To verify it worked, restart your Mac while holding the 'Option' (⌥) key and check for the USB drive in the boot menu.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while creating a bootable macOS installer, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'The volume is not a valid install location' - Solution: Ensure the USB drive is formatted as 'Mac OS Extended (Journaled)'.
  • •Issue: 'Createinstallmedia failed' - Fix: Check that you have the correct version of the macOS installer and that the USB drive is properly connected.
  • •Problem: USB drive not appearing in boot menu - Workaround: Try a different USB port or restart your Mac and try again.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users, here are some tips to enhance your experience:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: 'Command + Space' - Opens Spotlight for quick access to applications.
  • •Command line: `diskutil list` - Displays all connected drives and their identifiers, useful for troubleshooting.
  • •Hidden feature: Use 'Option + Command + R' during startup to enter Internet Recovery mode for macOS installation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best results, always use the latest macOS installer and ensure your USB drive is in good condition.