Understanding Stripe Test Mode and Test Cards
Get hands-on with Stripe's sandbox: switch to test mode, use test card numbers, and simulate successful, declined, and authentication-required payments safely.
What Is Test Mode?
Every Stripe account gets a fully isolated test mode — build and experiment freely without moving real money or touching live customers.
Test vs Live Keys
Each mode has its own API keys: test keys start with sk_test_ and pk_test_, live keys with sk_live_. Data never crosses between modes.
// Test secret key example (not a real key)
const stripe = require('stripe')('sk_test_123abc');All lessons in this course
- Understanding Online Payment Ecosystems
- Stripe Account Setup & Dashboard Tour
- Processing Your First Payment with Checkout
- Understanding Stripe Test Mode and Test Cards