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API keys connect your application to your SignatureAPI account. Every request to the API requires a key, and the key determines whether the request runs in test mode or live mode. To manage your API keys, go to Settings > API Keys in the Dashboard.
API Keys page
For technical details on how authentication works, see Authentication.

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Test and live keys

SignatureAPI provides two types of API keys:
TypePrefixPurpose
Testkey_test_...Build and test your integration without sending real documents
Livekey_live_...Send legally binding documents in production
Test keys are free to use. Envelopes created with a test key don’t send emails to recipients and are not legally binding. Use test keys while setting up your integration. Live keys create real envelopes that send emails and produce legally binding documents. Use live keys only when you’re ready to go to production.

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Creating an API key

You can only create live api keys after upgrading your account and adding a payment method.
1

Open the API Keys page

Go to Settings > API Keys and click Create API Key.
2

Give the key a description

Enter a name or description to help you remember what this key is for. This is especially helpful if you have multiple keys.
Create API key dialog
3

Copy the key

The new key is displayed once. Copy it and store it in a safe place. You won’t be able to see the full key again.

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Revoking an API key

To revoke a key, go to Settings > API Keys, find the key you want to revoke, and click Revoke.
Revoke an API key
Revoking a key is permanent and takes effect immediately. Any application using that key will stop working. Existing envelopes are not affected.

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Keeping your keys safe

  • Never share API keys in public repositories, emails, or client-side code.
  • Store keys in environment variables or a secrets manager.
  • Use test keys during development and keep live keys restricted to production systems.
  • Revoke any key you suspect has been exposed and create a new one.
You need the Manage API keys permission to create or revoke keys. See Dashboard Users for details on roles and permissions.