Software⏱️ 3 min read📅 2026-06-11

How to Fix: Docker Toolbox: Error creating machine: Error in driver during machine creation: Maximum number of retries (5) exceeded

Troubleshooting Docker Toolbox error creating machine with maximum retries exceeded.

Quick Answer: Check VT-x support and D-Bus installation, then try running quickstart again after resolving issues.

The 'Docker Toolbox: Error creating machine' error occurs when Docker is unable to create a virtual machine using VirtualBox. This issue affects users running Windows 7 and has been reported in multiple GitHub issues, including #214.

This frustrating error can be caused by the lack of D-Bus installation or incorrect VT-x support settings. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to resolve this issue.

🔍 Why This Happens

  • The primary reason for this error is the failure to install D-Bus. Docker relies on D-Bus to communicate with VirtualBox and manage virtual machines. Without D-Bus installation, Docker cannot create a virtual machine successfully.
  • Another possible cause of this error is incorrect VT-x support settings in VirtualBox. Although VT-x support seems to be enabled in your system (as indicated by the successful initialization of VM), there might be issues with the configuration that prevent Docker from creating the machine.

🚀 How to Resolve This Issue

Installing D-Bus

  1. Step 1: Download and install the D-Bus package for Windows. You can find the installation instructions on the official D-Bus website.
  2. Step 2: Restart your system after installing D-Bus to ensure it is properly configured and recognized by Docker.

Enabling VT-x support in VirtualBox

  1. Step 1: Open VirtualBox settings and ensure that VT-x support is enabled. You may need to restart the VirtualBox service after changing these settings.
  2. Step 2: Check if you have any conflicting applications or system settings that might interfere with VT-x support.

💡 Conclusion

To resolve the 'Docker Toolbox: Error creating machine' error, try installing D-Bus and enabling VT-x support in VirtualBox. If these steps do not work, consider seeking further assistance from Docker support or VirtualBox forums.

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