> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://help.clickatell.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://help.clickatell.com/sms/getting-started/quick-start-guide-sms.md).

# Quick start guide (SMS)

{% embed url="<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=39wxKQZpndk>" %}

{% embed url="<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=an7lV4WtZ14>" %}

To get started with sending SMS messages, follow the below steps:\
\
**Step 1:** [**Create**](https://app.clickatell.com/sign-up/create-account?intent_type=SMS&_gl=1*1ubje1z*_gcl_au*MjkxNzc2NDAyLjE3Nzg0OTUwOTkuMTk5MTA0NzgyOS4xNzgyNzE2NjA4LjE3ODI3MTY2MDc.*_ga*MTYyNjkzMjMwLjE3Mzg5MjA3NDI.*_ga_VQEX92MWS1*czE3ODI5MTAwMzEkbzMzMSRnMSR0MTc4MjkxMjI2MSRqNjAkbDAkaDA.&_ga=2.21677243.128726484.1782716461-162693230.1738920742) **and access your account.**&#x20;

Register for a free Clickatell account, verify it, and log in to access your workspace.&#x20;

**Step 2:** **Activate SMS and configure your setup.**

Activate SMS, create a new setup, and configure your messaging type and sender details.&#x20;

<figure><img src="/files/bFTRiY02rZITQ55Afu4F" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

**Step 3: Generate your API key.**

Create an SMS API integration and generate your API key for authentication.&#x20;

**Step 4: Test your integration (Sandbox).**

Add test numbers, send test messages, and validate responses before going live.&#x20;

**Step 5: Send and manage SMS messages.**

Send SMS messages via API or your workspace and choose between priority or standard delivery.&#x20;

{% hint style="info" %}
Message length depends on encoding (160 characters standard, \~70 for Unicode).

&#x20;Ensure compliance with the [regulations](https://www.clickatell.com/sms-country-regulations/) of the country that you are sending SMS messages to.&#x20;
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="info" %}
If you plan on using a **US Long Number**, please refer to the [10DLC](/sms/10dlc-regulations-us/what-is-10dlc.md) section of this guide.
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="info" %}
Helpful Resources:\
[SMS API Explained](https://www.clickatell.com/products/sms-platform/#step-1)

[SMS FAQs](https://www.clickatell.com/help-center/sms/general-sms/)

[Developer Documentation](https://help.clickatell.com/developers-documentation)

[SMS Pricing](https://www.clickatell.com/pricing-and-coverage/message-pricing/)

{% endhint %}


---

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