# Test your Terminal integration

Stripe Terminal requires a developer to build a custom integration. If you're ready to test that integration, this article covers how to get started with a simulated reader or physical hardware. For setup instructions, review our [integration documentation](https://docs.stripe.com/terminal/designing-integration).
## Simulated reader
A [simulated reader](https://stripe.com/docs/terminal/sdk/js#connect-simulated-reader) lets you build and test your Terminal integration without a physical card reader. This is useful if your team is still waiting on hardware, readers can't be shipped to your location, or you want to start building right away.
## Physical hardware
Test your Terminal integration using a Stripe [pre-certified card reader](https://docs.stripe.com/terminal/fleet/order-and-return-readers) and a physical test card.
### Card reader
You need a physical reader to start processing live transactions.
If you'd rather skip specialized payment hardware, Stripe also supports Tap to Pay on [iPhone](https://docs.stripe.com/terminal/payments/setup-reader/tap-to-pay?platform=ios) and [Android](https://docs.stripe.com/terminal/payments/setup-reader/tap-to-pay?platform=android) devices.
### Test card
Terminal test cards are designed for use with physical card readers. Purchase [Stripe Terminal test cards](https://docs.stripe.com/terminal/references/testing#physical-test-cards) from the **Terminal** tab of your [Dashboard](https://dashboard.stripe.com/terminal/shop).
In [test mode](https://docs.stripe.com/test-mode), test cards work regardless of the expiration date printed on the card. Once your Terminal integration goes live, expired test cards are declined.
## Related articles
* [Designing an integration: Choosing your reader](https://stripe.com/docs/terminal/designing-integration#reader)