Described herein is one or more implementations for a percutaneous spinal registration-and-access tool for minimally invasive spinal surgery involving lumbar pedicle screw fixation and registration (which is the set-up process for spinal computer navigation). This spinal registration-and-access tool aids registration by allowing more precise targeting of the spinous process (of the vertebrae) and safe working channel for percutaneous placement of a sharp tool (e.g., a bone pin) through the protected subcutaneous tissue.