Yes, you can create a free Developer Sandbox through the Developer Center and start making API calls in seconds. Developer Sandbox accounts operate in a DocuSign non-production environment, have Enterprise level features enabled, and do not expire. Note that signature requests sent through the non-production environment are not intended for legal use. In order to send production envelopes, you’ll need to create your Integrator Key (aka API key) through your sandbox preferences and certify your application, as well as purchase an API plan.

API Plans are designed for Developers and focused on sending envelopes through one or more integrations rather than users. API Plans can access DocuSign through our REST and SOAP APIs as well as through the DocuSign web console. Once you purchase an API Plan you’ll be able to send and sign documents immediately through the DocuSign Website. Before sending production envelopes through the API you’ll need to have your application certified.

API Certification is required for API access in DocuSign’s production environment. During the certification process your integration is reviewed for potential security flaws and other criteria. Upon certification, your Integrator Key (aka API key) will be activated in production so you can send production signature requests. The certification process normally takes less than a day. Learn more through the Go Live section of the Developer Center.

DocuSign uses Envelopes to send documents to recipients. An Envelope may contain multiple documents, multiple signature fields, and multiple signers. Regardless of how many documents, fields, and signers a given envelope contains it still only counts towards one of your monthly requests (i.e. 40 signature requests per month = 40 envelopes per month).

DocuSign has a very active developer community on Stack Overflow. For free support, search the DocuSignAPI tag on Stack Overflow to see over 1,500 questions and answers, or post a new one. We also have open source tools, code walkthroughs, and API documentation. Additionally we have paid support options and Account Managers available for Enterprise offerings.

Plans include an envelope limit per month (for monthly plans) or per year (for annual plans). If you exceed your plan limit, our direct sales team will contact you with the opportunity to upgrade to higher volume plans. Note that an envelope may contain multiple documents, multiple signing and data fields, and multiple recipients. To check usage details login to your account and go to Admin -> Billing and Usage -> View Usage Details.