How to Create a Shopify Development Store: Step-by-Step Guide for Developers

Shopify’s ecosystem is renowned for its user-friendliness and developer-friendly tools. Among the most powerful tools available to developers is the Shopify Development Store, which allows for cost-free testing and building of online stores before they go live. This article will walk you through a step-by-step guide to creating a Shopify Development Store, along with expert tips to ensure you're getting the most out of it.

What is a Shopify Development Store?

Before we dive into the process, it's important to understand that a Shopify Development Store is a special kind of Shopify store that developers and agencies use to build and test stores or apps without needing a paid subscription. It's part of the Shopify Partner Program and is ideal for creating eCommerce stores for clients, testing new themes, or working on app integrations.

Step 1: Join the Shopify Partner Program

To create a development store, you must be a member of the Shopify Partner Program. Here’s how:

1. Visit partners.shopify.com
2. Click “Join now” and complete the signup process.
3. Once approved, you’ll get access to the Partner Dashboard, your command center for all development work.

Tip: Use a professional email address and provide accurate information to increase your chances of quick approval.

Step 2: Navigate to the Partner Dashboard

After you’re accepted:

1. Log in to your Shopify Partner account.
2. From the main dashboard, go to “Stores” on the left-hand sidebar.
3. Click the “Add store” button at the top right.

Step 3: Select “Development Store” as the Store Type

When prompted, choose “Development store”. Shopify will give you a few options for store types, but for testing and client work, this is the one you want.

You’ll be asked for some basic information:

• Store name (this will also be your store’s subdomain)
• Password protection (enabled by default to restrict public access)
• Purpose (e.g., building for a client, testing apps/themes)
• Optional: Choose whether to install developer preview features for early access to new APIs and functionalities.

Step 4: Customize Your Store

Once your store is created, Shopify will redirect you to the admin panel. This is where the real work begins.

You can now:

• Upload or modify themes
• Add test products
• Install and test apps
• Build or edit collections, navigation, and customer profiles
• Work with the Liquid templating language

Tip: Use dummy content and placeholder images if you’re preparing a mockup or prototype for a client. Apps like Shopify’s own “Sample Data” app can help speed up this process.

Step 5: Connect Your Development Store with Shopify CLI

For theme and app developers, using the Shopify CLI (Command Line Interface) is essential.

1. Install the CLI tool from Shopify CLI documentation.
2. Log into your Partner account via the terminal.
3. Use commands like shopify theme serve to work on your theme locally.

This greatly speeds up development by allowing live previews and easier file management.

Step 6: Test Features Thoroughly

Development stores come equipped with:

• Unlimited product listings
• Discount code testing
• Integration testing with apps and third-party services
• Access to Shopify’s full admin dashboard (with a few limitations)

You should test:

• Checkout experience
• App compatibility
• Mobile responsiveness
• Page speed and SEO setup
• Any custom JavaScript or Liquid changes

Note: While you can simulate orders, you won’t be able to accept real payments unless the store is moved to a paid plan.

Step 7: Prepare for Client Handoff (if applicable)

Once your store is complete:

• Ensure the client has a Shopify account.
• Go to Settings > Plan and initiate the “Transfer Ownership” process.
• The client will be prompted to choose a pricing plan.
• After transfer, you’ll remain a collaborator unless the client removes you.

Tip: Deliver documentation or a quick walkthrough video to help your client manage the store independently.

Limitations to Keep in Mind

Though powerful, Development Stores have some restrictions:

• No live checkout with real payments (test transactions only)
• Shopify Plus features are off-limits unless you’re a Plus Partner
• Can’t add paid apps unless approved as collaborators
• Password-protected storefronts (until transferred)

Conclusion

Setting up a Shopify Development Store is a straightforward but essential part of working within the Shopify ecosystem. Whether you're creating custom themes, developing an app, or preparing a store for a client, following this step-by-step guide ensures a smooth and professional workflow. With the right setup and tools like Shopify CLI, Git, and sample content apps, you can create, test, and deliver high-quality Shopify stores with confidence.