A method and a tool for assembling a bone anchoring device are provided, the method including providing the receiving part body with the locking ring (8) in a first position in which it is latched with respect to the receiving part body and in which the head (3) can be introduced into the receiving part body and can freely pivot therein inserting the head (3) and moving the locking ring (8) and the receiving part body (5) relative to each other until the locking ring (8) enters a second position in which it is latched with respect to the receiving part body (5) and in which the bone anchoring element (1) is held in an adjustable angular position but is not fully locked. The tool is configured for the execution of the steps according to the method.