# Production Access & API Keys

Source: https://docs.aon.pro/quickstart/get-api-key

> Derived from the same AON Docs release as the source page.

Public protocol sources explain the request and response contract. They do not grant hosted runtime access, credentials, or automatic account activation.

For credential headers and safe use, see [Authentication](https://docs.aon.pro/api/authentication). It is the authority for credential mechanics; this page only explains the access boundary.

[Run the Public Test Sandbox](https://docs.aon.pro/quickstart/public-test-sandbox)

## When you already have an enabled account

Only a **serviceable Application** can use the Developer Portal to manage or generate its application-owned Live Key. This documentation does not promise that an account can self-serve its own activation or access.

[Open Developer Portal for an enabled account](https://developer.aon.pro/)

## Access handoff boundary

Managing or generating an application-owned Live Key is available only for a serviceable Application. Pair it with a Placement as recommended live configuration, not as a Key-issuance prerequisite. Live completion remains the successful route-specific query, not this access handoff.

## When your account is not enabled

Public contract documentation cannot confirm account eligibility or activate an account. You can still validate the Query shape in the [Public Test Sandbox](https://docs.aon.pro/quickstart/public-test-sandbox). Return to [Authentication](https://docs.aon.pro/api/authentication) for credential mechanics once access is available; this page does not define an application or invitation flow.

## Local SDK verification

SDK mock mode uses local data to verify API shape. It is separate from an issued AON API key and does not create runtime eligibility.

Keep keys out of client-side code, repositories, and logs. Store issued keys in your server-side secret management flow.

After access is available, return to the [REST / HTTP route](https://docs.aon.pro/quickstart/first-api-call), [SDK route](https://docs.aon.pro/sdk), or [MCP route](https://docs.aon.pro/mcp/quickstart) that matches your integration.