License Key Required Errors

Problem

On step 3 of installation (the install.php page), after entering your WHMCS license key and database connection details, the following error appears:

A license key is required. If you don't have one, please visit www.whmcs.com to purchase one.

Cause

There is an issue with the PHP sessions configuration in your server environment. This prevents the installation process from storing the temporary information to proceed to the next step.

Solution

To resolve this issue:

  1. Upload the test_sessions.php file to your server.
  2. Visit the file in your browser and note any errors or warnings.
  3. Refresh the page.
  4. Every time you refresh the page, the number should increase (for example, from 1 to 2 and then from 2 to 3). The expected result from the test_sessions.php file in a correctly-configured cPanel server environment is:
    Array (     [count] => 1 )

PHP session.save_path /var/cpanel/php/sessions/ea-php81 is writable
  5. Work with your hosting provider or system administrator to resolve any PHP misconfigurations that appear in the test_sessions.php file.
  6. Return to the install.php page and start the installation process again.
troubleshooting troubleshooting-article installation licensing php

Last modified: 2025 July 28