WhatsApp Business API Configuration: Test to Live Mode Guide
Complete guide to switch from WhatsApp Business API Test mode to Configuration mode. Learn requirements for Meta for Developers setup and phone number verification.
What are the requirements to enable API Configuration mode in WhatsApp Business API via Meta for Developers? I’ve created a new app and linked it to a Business Portfolio/Business Manager, but the WhatsApp section only displays ‘API Test’ instead of ‘API Configuration’, preventing me from adding or configuring a phone number. What steps or settings am I missing to switch from API Test mode to API Configuration mode?
WhatsApp Business API configuration requires several prerequisites before transitioning from API Test mode to API Configuration mode. The key requirements include business verification, proper app setup in Meta Business Manager, phone number association, and completing necessary policy configurations. Without these steps, the WhatsApp section will remain stuck in API Test mode, preventing you from adding or configuring a phone number.
Contents
- Understanding WhatsApp Business API Modes
- Prerequisites for API Configuration Mode
- Step-by-Step Guide to Enable API Configuration
- Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Best Practices for WhatsApp Business API Setup
- Sources
- Conclusion
Understanding WhatsApp Business API Modes
WhatsApp Business API operates in two primary modes within the Meta for Developers platform: API Test mode and API Configuration mode. Understanding these modes is crucial for proper setup and operation.
API Test Mode
API Test mode is the initial state designed for development and testing purposes. In this mode, you can send free messages to up to 5 recipient phone numbers, which allows you to develop and test your integration without incurring costs. The official WhatsApp Cloud API documentation explains that this mode creates a test business phone number and associates it with your WhatsApp Business Account (WABA), along with a pre-approved ‘hello world’ template.
API Configuration Mode
API Configuration mode, also known as Live mode, is the production-ready state that allows you to send messages to unlimited recipients using your verified business phone number. This mode requires full verification, proper documentation, and compliance with Meta’s policies. According to the Meta Business Management API documentation, transitioning to this mode involves additional security checks and business verification processes.
Prerequisites for API Configuration Mode
Before you can switch from API Test mode to API Configuration mode, several prerequisites must be met. Missing any of these requirements will prevent the WhatsApp section from displaying the API Configuration option.
Business Verification
The first critical requirement is verifying your business with Meta. This process involves proving your business identity and legitimacy. The Anjok Technologies guide emphasizes that business verification is a mandatory step before you can proceed with API Configuration setup. Without proper verification, Meta restricts access to production features.
Meta Business Manager Setup
You must have a properly configured Meta Business Manager with an associated Business Portfolio. The official Facebook documentation states that you need to locate your business portfolio in the top-left dropdown menu and navigate to Accounts > WhatsApp Accounts. This establishes the organizational structure required for API management.
WhatsApp Business Account (WABA) Creation
A WhatsApp Business Account must be created and associated with your business. The Infobip setup guide explains that WABA serves as the container for your WhatsApp business presence and is required before you can proceed with API Configuration mode. Without a WABA, the system cannot route messages through your business number.
Privacy Policy and Terms of Service
Your app must have valid Privacy Policy and Terms of Service URLs configured. The n8n integration documentation specifically mentions that in the App settings > Basic section, you need to set these URLs. Meta requires this information to ensure compliance with their platform policies and user data protection regulations.
Step-by-Step Guide to Enable API Configuration
Once all prerequisites are met, follow these steps to transition from API Test mode to API Configuration mode:
Step 1: Complete Business Verification
- Sign in to Meta Business Suite
- Navigate to your business settings
- Complete the business verification process by submitting required documents
- Wait for approval from Meta (this may take several days)
The official documentation emphasizes that many endpoints require the system user to have either Partial or Full business asset access to the WABA, which is granted after verification.
Step 2: Create and Configure Your Developer App
- Go to the Meta Developer Portal
- Create a new app, selecting “Business” as the app type
- Add your Privacy Policy and Terms of Service URLs
- Connect the app to your Meta Business Manager
As noted in the Anjok Technologies guide, this allows you to manage integrations across Meta platforms, including WhatsApp, Facebook Pages, and Instagram.
Step 3: Add a Verified Phone Number
- In the App Dashboard, navigate to WhatsApp > API Setup
- Click the blue “Generate access token” button
- Add a valid WhatsApp phone number where you can send test messages
- For production, associate a verified phone number with your WABA
The official WhatsApp Cloud API documentation explains that under “Send and receive messages,” you should select the “To” field and choose “Manage phone number list” to add your verified number.
Step 4: Configure System User Permissions
- Create a system user in your Meta Business Manager
- Set business asset access levels to “Partial” or “Full” for the WABA
- Grant necessary permissions for WhatsApp API operations
According to the official documentation, the system user whose token is included in API requests must have proper business asset access to the WABA being queried.
Step 5: Switch to Live Mode
- In the left-side menu, go to App settings > Basic
- Change the App Mode from “Development” to “Live”
- Confirm the change when prompted
- Verify that the WhatsApp section now shows “API Configuration” instead of “API Test”
The n8n integration documentation confirms that changing the App Mode to Live is a critical step in transitioning to production functionality.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even after following the steps, you might encounter issues preventing the switch to API Configuration mode. Here are common problems and their solutions:
Business Verification Still Pending
If your business verification is still pending, you won’t be able to access API Configuration mode. The official documentation suggests that you may need to resubmit verification documents or contact Meta support if verification takes longer than expected.
Insufficient Permissions
If your system user lacks proper permissions, you won’t be able to switch to Live mode. The Infobip setup guide recommends ensuring that your system user has the necessary business asset access levels (Partial or Full) to the WABA.
Missing Phone Number
Without a properly configured phone number, the system will remain in Test mode. The official WhatsApp Cloud API documentation specifies that you need to add a valid WhatsApp phone number where you can send messages and associate it with your WABA.
Policy URL Issues
Invalid or missing Privacy Policy and Terms of Service URLs can prevent mode switching. The n8n integration documentation emphasizes that these URLs must be valid and accessible for the app to be approved for Live mode.
Best Practices for WhatsApp Business API Setup
To ensure a smooth transition to API Configuration mode and avoid common pitfalls, consider these best practices:
Start with Test Mode Thoroughly
Before switching to Live mode, thoroughly test your integration in API Test mode. The official documentation recommends using the free test messaging to up to 5 recipients to identify and resolve any issues before going live.
Maintain Proper Documentation
Keep your business documentation current and comprehensive. The Anjok Technologies guide stresses that proper documentation facilitates faster verification and reduces the chance of rejection.
Implement Message Templates
Prepare and submit message templates for approval before switching to Live mode. The Infobip setup guide explains that templates are required for sending automated messages and must comply with Meta’s guidelines.
Monitor API Usage and Compliance
Once in Live mode, monitor your API usage and ensure compliance with WhatsApp’s policies. The official documentation provides guidelines on maintaining good standing with the platform.
Sources
- Get Started - WhatsApp Cloud API - Documentation - Meta for Developers
- Get Started - WhatsApp Business Management API - Documentation - Meta for Developers
- How to Set Up WhatsApp Cloud API Step-by-Step in Meta Developer & Business Manager - Anjok Technologies
- WhatsApp Business Cloud credentials - n8n Documentation
- WhatsApp Business API setup guide [step-by-step] - Infobip
- WhatsApp Business App vs WhatsApp API: Can I Use the Same Number? - Respond.io
Conclusion
Enabling API Configuration mode in WhatsApp Business API requires careful attention to prerequisites and proper execution of setup steps. The key requirements include business verification with Meta, proper Meta Business Manager configuration, WhatsApp Business Account creation, privacy policy setup, and verified phone number association. By following the step-by-step guide and addressing common issues, you can successfully transition from API Test mode to API Configuration mode. Remember that thorough testing in Test mode before going live can save you from potential issues and ensure a smooth transition to production functionality. With proper setup and compliance, you’ll be able to leverage the full capabilities of WhatsApp Business API for your business communication needs.