Getting started
In order to develop applications with ArcGIS APIs and SDKs, you need to join the ArcGIS Developer Program or have an ArcGIS Online account. Sign in to download the API or SDK of your choice and begin developing. Before deploying your app in production, you will need to ensure that your application meets the production licensing requirements and license accordingly.
If you are extending the ArcGIS Platform, you can upgrade your ArcGIS Developer Subscription to gain access to Desktop and Server software (Professional plan or higher). When you are ready to deploy your application, a production license is required to use your solution.
Production licensing requirements
Different applications have different licensing requirements based on the content and services they use, the API or SDK they were developed with, and if the app is used to generate revenue via sales, ads, or in-app purchases. Be sure to review the terms of use and the FAQ for more details.
Licensing the use of ArcGIS Online
If your app uses data and services from ArcGIS Online and does not generate any revenue, you do not need to take any additional steps to license it for production. However, if your application uses all of your available credits, you might need to upgrade your ArcGIS Online Deployment Plan or purchase additional credits for your ArcGIS Online subscription.
If your application generates revenue via sales, ads, or in-app purchases, you will need to purchase a paid ArcGIS Online Deployment Plan starting at $20/month and maintain the subscription as long as your app generates revenue. You must also pay for any credit usage that your app incurs. If you have an ArcGIS Online or ArcGIS Enterprise subscription, you can deploy revenue generating apps in production without purchasing an ArcGIS Online Deployment Plan.
ArcGIS Runtime apps
In addition to the requirements for revenue and non-revenue generating apps listed above, apps built with the ArcGIS Runtime SDKs must also be licensed at one of four levels - Lite, Basic, Standard, or Advanced - depending on the functionality used. The ArcGIS Runtime documentation has more details on license levels and information on how to obtain your free Lite license key.
Extensions and plugins
If you are developing an extension or plugin to an ArcGIS product, such as to ArcGIS Pro, you do not have to take any additional steps to license your extension. However users of your plugin or extension will need a commercial license in order to use your plugin or extension.