> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.tryterra.co/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.tryterra.co/introduction/account-setup-and-api-keys.md).

# Account setup and API keys

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#### Create your Terra API account

* **Sign Up:** Create an account at the Terra API [Registration Page](https://dashboard.tryterra.co/user/signup).
* **Onboarding:** Follow the Terra the onboarding flow and fill in the required information (email, password, company details, etc.) when prompted.
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#### Select plan

* **Setup:** During onboarding you'll be prompted to select your plan and enter billing details. Select the plan that best fits your requirements.
* **Manage plan:** Once signed up, you can manage view your current plan and billing details within the *Terra Dashboard* under *Settings.* Ensure your account and subscription are active to maintain uninterrupted API access.
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#### Obtain API keys

* **Get keys from dashboard:** Once your account is setup, go to the [Terra Dashboard](https://dashboard.tryterra.co/dashboard/) and click on *API Keys* in the Navbar. Here you can copy your *Developer ID* and *API Keys*.
* **Credentials per environment:** Terra maintains separate credentials for *testing*, *staging*, and *production* environments. There is a [user cap](/unified-api/integration-setup/understanding-terra-environments.md) on *testing* and *staging*.

<figure><img src="/files/CWg03J4HMwVacOdZ0sKb" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
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#### Start using Terra API!

* **Follow API Docs**: You're now all set to use Terra API. We recommend that you start with the [**Unified API.**](/unified-api/getting-started.md)
* **Keep secret:** Never share your x-api-key publicly or embed it directly in client-side code (e.g., mobile apps, frontend JavaScript).
* **Backend Use:** API keys requiring this level of access (like your main x-api-key) should typically be used only from your secure backend server.
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