Skip to main content

Documentation Index

Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://developers.circle.com/llms.txt

Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

1. Request production access

Contact your Circle representative to request production API access. Production access requires a signed agreement with Circle.

2. Replace sandbox URLs with production URLs

Update the base URL in your application from the sandbox endpoint to the production endpoint.
EnvironmentAPI host
Sandboxhttps://api-sandbox.circle.com
Productionhttps://api.circle.com

3. Replace your API key

Replace your sandbox API key with your production API key. Your production API key is provided by Circle after your production access is approved.
Keep your production API key safe. Because the production API key allows you to work with real funds, treat it with appropriate security protocols. Never expose it in client-side code or public repositories.

4. Account for production settlement times

In sandbox, wire deposits and blockchain transactions settle instantly. In production, be aware of the following differences:
OperationSandbox behaviorProduction behavior
Wire depositsInstant1-2 business days
Wire withdrawalsInstant1-2 business days
Crypto depositsInstantVaries by blockchain (minutes to hours)
Crypto transfersInstantVaries by blockchain (minutes to hours)
Internal transfersInstantInstant (same as sandbox)
Update your application’s user interface to set the right expectations for your end customers about processing times.

5. Verify KYB onboarding flow

In sandbox, KYB verification is automatically approved. In production, Circle performs real KYB checks on your end customers. Ensure your integration handles the following scenarios:
  • Pending verification: The account is created but not yet active while Circle reviews the business entity
  • Rejected verification: The business entity does not pass KYB checks and the account is not activated

6. Review transaction limits

Sandbox limits differ from production limits. Verify the applicable limits for your end customers’ risk tiers and ensure your integration handles limit errors gracefully. See Limits and risk ratings for details.

7. Set up webhook notifications

If you haven’t already, configure webhook notifications for your production environment to receive real-time updates on deposits, withdrawals, and transfers. Using webhooks reduces the need for polling and ensures you respond quickly to account events.

Production checklist

Before going live, confirm that you have completed each of the following items:
  • Obtained a production API key from Circle
  • Updated all API calls to use the production base URL
  • Tested authentication with the production API key
  • Handled KYB pending and rejected states in your onboarding flow
  • Accounted for real-world settlement times in your user interface
  • Configured webhook notifications for production
  • Verified that transaction limit errors are handled gracefully