If you are new to AWS and want to make use of the free tier that AWS provides, then simply visit https://aws.amazon.com/ and Create a Free Account. This is the best way to get started with AWS. The sign-up process is not complicated; it just involves entering your details and credit card. Though you select the free tier, the process would prompt you to enter your credit card details. I feel AWS is just keeping the details for an individual identity purpose and nothing else. AWS won't charge your credit card for the free tier if you are using free tier services only. If you provide an expired credit card or cancelled credit card, the AWS account will not be activated. Otherwise, you have the AWS dashboard ready for you straight away to get started.
At the time of writing this book, I noticed the following screen, and this is always changing, but the web address...