API Limits

When using the Onshape REST API, it is important to understand the usage limits in place to ensure reliable and consistent performance for all users. These limits help safeguard the platform and ensure equitable access to Onshape services.

Rate Limits

Onshape limits the number of API calls that can be made within a given time period to maintain optimal platform stability and performance. Specific rate limit values vary by endpoint, but exceeding the threshold results in an HTTP response status code 429 (Too Many Requests).

To minimize disruptions:

  • Follow the guidance at Response Codes: 429 to handle 429 responses gracefully.
  • Optimize your application’s API call patterns to reduce unnecessary or redundant requests.
  • Monitor your application’s request rate proactively to remain within acceptable usage levels.

Annual API Call Limits

In addition to per-endpoint rate limits, Onshape enforces annual limits on API usage, varying by account type:

Onshape SubscriptionAPI calls per year
  • Professional
  • Enterprise
20,000*
  • Pro Trial
  • Pro Discovery
  • Pro Startup
  • EDU Educator
  • EDU Enterprise
2,500*
  • Free
  • EDU Student
  • Standard
2,500

* Calls are PER COMPANY, not per user.

Call limit details

Calls that count toward these limits:

  • All calls made with API keys
  • All calls made with OAuth2 via private applications (any applications that are NOT publicly available in the Onshape App Store)

Calls that do not count toward these limits:

  • Calls made with OAuth2 via applications that are publicly available in the Onshape App Store
  • Calls made from the Onshape browser, mobile clients, or API Explorer.

Once the annual API call limit is reached, subsequent API requests are rejected. To avoid service disruption, manage and monitor your API consumption carefully throughout the year.

Additional API calls are available for purchase upon request. Reach out to your Onshape representative or api‑support@onshape.com for more information.

Terms of Use

Your usage of the Onshape API is governed by the Onshape Terms of Use and the Onshape API Terms of Use. You must comply fully with these terms when using the API. Specifically, it is critical to note:

  • Prohibited Usage: The API may not be used by any robot, spider, scraper or other automated means for data mining, data gathering or extraction method from the Onshape Public Documents. Such activity constitutes a violation of the API Terms of Use and may result in suspension or termination of your API access.
  • Acceptable Use: The API should be used exclusively to develop applications or tools that enhance productivity for you or other Onshape users by interacting responsibly with user content and resources provided by the Onshape platform.

Refer directly to the Onshape Terms of Use and the API Terms of Use for comprehensive information regarding permissible activities and usage restrictions. Reach out to your Onshape representative for the latest version of the agreements.