Can't login or reset password on new MacBook Pro laptop

Set up my new Macbook Pro. Restarted it and it asks for password. Won't accept my password. I've tried all the Apple tips and nothing works.

1. Enter any password up to three times until you see one of the password-reset options. --> Nope, never see the password-reset options
2. Reset using your Apple ID --> Never see that option
3. Reset using your recovery key --> don't have a recovery key
4. Turn on your Mac and immediately press and hold Command (⌘)-R until you see an Apple logo or other image. --> just end up at the login again
5. Wait 18 hours to 5 days and Apple will text you instructions. --> no text.
6. I am running 10.12.6 on my old laptop and the app store doesn't connect anymore. So that option doesn't help either.
7. Tried to reset my password using my iPad. I seem to be in "waiting" purgatory with that option, too.
8. Tried every possible suggestion on this link and all links mentioned on that link.

Any other suggestions???