# Getting Started

<table data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th data-hidden></th><th data-hidden data-type="users" data-multiple></th><th data-hidden data-type="users" data-multiple></th><th data-hidden data-type="users" data-multiple></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Step 1</td><td><mark style="color:green;">Sign up</mark></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Step 2</td><td><mark style="color:green;">Get credential</mark></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Step 3</td><td><mark style="color:green;">Define Endpoint</mark></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr></tbody></table>

Follow the steps below to learn how to quickly start sending messaging using 9bits VAS API:

## 1. Sign up

Using the VAS API starts with signing up for a free account on the [9bits Customer Dashboard](https://dashboard.9bits.net/). If you already have an account, skip this step.

## 2. Get credentials

You need an API Token which is required for each requests to the VAS API. These tokens are created automatically on the [Customer Dashboard](https://dashboard.9bits.net) for each account. You can find your token security tab, under Settings

## 3. Define Endpoint

This is necessary for receiving all subscriber SMS MO and lifecycle events. Go to [Customer Dashboard](https://dashboard.9bits.net) and then navigate to the Settings page. Under "Callback Endpoints" tab, enter your endpoint URL.

{% hint style="info" %}
All our endpoints will request for your API token, so keep them handy.
{% endhint %}