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Base API URL: https://sandbox.cdp.coinbase.com

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1. Create Sandbox API keys

1

Access CDP Portal Sandbox

Navigate to Sandbox mode in the CDP Portal
2

Create Sandbox API key

  • Go to Settings
  • Click Create secret API Key
  • Enter an API key nickname
  • Download the API key JSON file and save it securely

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2. Install CDP CLI

CDP CLI is a command-line tool that handles JWT authentication automatically — configure your API key once and it takes care of signing every request for you. 
npm install -g @coinbase/cdp-cli
cdp --version
Node.js 22 or later is required.
Configure your API key: 
cdp env sandbox --key-file ~/Downloads/cdp_api_key.json
Never commit API keys to version control. Store them securely in environment variables or a secrets manager. Do not use real personal data in the Sandbox environment.

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3. Create and fund an account through the portal

1

Go to Sandbox Accounts

In Sandbox mode, navigate to the Accounts tab
2

Create test account

Name the account (e.g., “My Test Account”)
3

Add test assets

Add balances in different assets to your account. Currently we support USD, USDC, USDT (e.g., set USD to $1000)
Sandbox account showing test balances for USD, USDT, and USDC
All balances are simulated within the Sandbox environment — no blockchain or testnet connectivity. You cannot fund accounts by sending real or testnet crypto.

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4. Verify balance(s)

Run the following to verify your account balance: 
cdp accounts balance <accountId>
List all your account IDs:
cdp accounts list

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5. Alternative: Test with Postman

Prefer a GUI? See the Postman guide for setup instructions.

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Next steps

Now that you’re set up, explore the resource guides to test specific features:

Payment Methods

Test fiat withdrawal flows

Deposit Destinations

Create addresses and simulate incoming deposits

Accounts

Create and manage test accounts

Transfers

Test transfers to crypto addresses and emails

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Transitioning to Live

When you’re ready to move from Sandbox to Live:
  • Complete integration testing: Ensure all features work correctly in Sandbox
  • Create Live API keys: Generate Live credentials in the CDP Portal
  • Update configuration: Switch from sandbox.cdp.coinbase.com to api.cdp.coinbase.com
  • Start with small transactions: Begin with small test transactions to verify everything works
  • Set up monitoring: Configure alerting for failed transactions and API errors