How do I test the PayPal Account Optional feature in Sandbox?

To test an account that has the PayPal Account Optional feature turned on, you must have a business PayPal account in Sandbox.  


  1. Create a PayPal business Sandbox account

  2. Initiate checkout by clicking your PayPal button or completing the third-party checkout on your site. If your checkout isn’t already configured for Sandbox, enable your shopping cart for test mode. Please consult your third-party provider for Sandbox (test) environment enablement.
    Note: You’ll see one of two checkout pages, depending on whether you have login cookies stored on your machine. If you don’t have a login cookie, the page will request credit card information immediately. If you have a login cookie, you’ll see a login option on the right and a Continue link on the left. Click Continue to get to the credit card information entry page. 

  3. Click Add a Card and enter your dummy credit card information with the following requirements: 

  • The first and last names must contain letters only

  • The address must have a city, state, and ZIP code

  • The expiration date must be the current date or a future month and year

  • The CSC or CVV can be any three-digit number

  • To create multiple test credit card numbers, use the Credit Card Generator

  1. Click Review Order and Continue.

  2. Select Pay on the Make Your Payment page to complete the test.

See also: 
PayPal Sandbox Testing Guide

More ways we can help

Resolution Center

Fix transaction and account related issues

Tax center

Get your 1099-K and other tax info here

Business Help

Get help with using any of our PayPal products

Technical Help

Find out how PayPal works for your business

Message Center

Send, receive, and view your PayPal messages

We’ll use cookies to improve and customize your experience if you continue to browse. Is it OK if we also use cookies to show you personalized ads? Learn more and manage your cookies