> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.oneclickdz.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Step 1: Merchant Setup

> Complete merchant validation to start accepting payments

## Overview

Before you can create payment links and accept payments, you must complete merchant validation. This is a one-time process required for both sandbox and production environments.

<Warning>
  **Required Step**: You cannot create payment links without completing merchant
  validation, even in sandbox mode.
</Warning>

## Why Merchant Validation?

You must complete merchant validation before creating payment links. This ensures legal compliance and security.

## Validation Process

1. Go to [Navio Merchant Info](https://app.oneclickdz.com/profile)
2. Fill in your business information
3. Upload required documents
4. Wait 1-3 business days for approval

## After Validation

Once approved, you can:

✅ Create payment links (sandbox and production)\
✅ Accept real payments from customers\
✅ Withdraw funds to your bank account\
✅ Access full Navio features

## Get Your API Keys

1. Log into [enterprise.oneclickdz.com](https://enterprise.oneclickdz.com/)
2. Navigate to API settings
3. Copy your keys:
   * **Sandbox Key**: For testing (no real money)
   * **Production Key**: For real transactions

<Warning>
  Never expose API keys in frontend code or public repositories!
</Warning>

## Store Keys Securely

<CodeGroup>
  ```bash Environment Variables theme={null}
  # .env file (add to .gitignore)
  ONECLICK_API_KEY=your_api_key_here
  ```

  ```javascript Node.js theme={null}
  const apiKey = process.env.ONECLICK_API_KEY;
  ```

  ```python Python theme={null}
  import os
  api_key = os.getenv('ONECLICK_API_KEY')
  ```

  ```php PHP theme={null}
  <?php
  $apiKey = getenv('ONECLICK_API_KEY');
  ?>
  ```
</CodeGroup>

## Common Issues

* **403 Forbidden**: Merchant validation not approved yet
* **Invalid API Key**: Check for typos or extra spaces
* **Taking too long**: Check email for document requests or contact support

## Next Steps

<Card title="Continue to Payment Flow" icon="arrow-right" href="/en/ocpay-guides/2-payment-flow">
  Learn how to create payment links and handle orders
</Card>