If you're exploring the Avalanche blockchain for the first time—whether as a user or developer—you may be wondering how to get started with AVAX, the network’s native token. One common hurdle for newcomers is accessing small amounts of AVAX to cover gas fees when testing transactions or deploying smart contracts. This is where AVAX faucets come in.
In this guide, we’ll explore what AVAX faucets are, how they work, and who can use them. We’ll also cover alternative ways to obtain AVAX on both mainnet and testnet, so you can jumpstart your journey on one of the fastest-growing Layer 1 ecosystems.
What Is an AVAX Faucet?
An AVAX faucet is a tool that dispenses small amounts of AVAX tokens—typically on the Fuji testnet—for free. These tokens have no monetary value but are essential for testing decentralized applications (dApps), deploying smart contracts, and learning how the Avalanche network functions without risking real funds.
Faucets are especially helpful for developers building on Avalanche and users experimenting with cross-chain bridges or wallet integrations.
👉 Discover how to access testnet AVAX and start building on Avalanche today.
How Users Can Get AVAX on Mainnet
New users often face a "chicken-and-egg" problem: you need AVAX to pay gas fees, but you can’t receive AVAX unless you already have a way to pay for transactions. Avalanche solves this through its official Avalanche Bridge™ (AB).
Here’s how it works:
- When you bridge at least $75 worth of assets from another blockchain (like Ethereum) to the Avalanche network, you’ll receive a one-time airdrop of 0.1 AVAX.
- This airdrop helps cover initial gas costs for your first few transactions.
- The incentive is only available when bridging to Avalanche—not when moving assets away from it.
This mechanism ensures that new users can begin interacting with Avalanche dApps immediately after transferring value, without needing to purchase AVAX upfront.
⚠️ Note: There is no public faucet for mainnet AVAX. All mainnet AVAX must be earned, purchased, or received via transfers.
How Developers Can Access Testnet AVAX
For developers building and testing on Avalanche, accessing testnet AVAX is straightforward. Here are the primary methods:
1. Mainnet AVAX Holder Method
If you already hold any amount of AVAX on the Avalanche mainnet, you can use that ownership to claim testnet AVAX. This method doesn’t require promo codes or third-party approvals—just proof of mainnet activity.
This approach encourages genuine development by ensuring only active participants in the ecosystem can easily access testnet resources.
2. Official Discord Support
Developers who don’t yet have mainnet AVAX can request testnet funds directly through the official Avalanche Discord server (chat.avax.network). Admins and moderators are available to assist qualified developers who need testnet AVAX for legitimate projects.
This support layer ensures no developer is locked out due to lack of initial capital, fostering inclusivity and innovation.
3. Use the Fuji Testnet Faucet
The most direct way to get testnet AVAX is via the Avalanche Core Testnet Faucet:
🔗 https://core.app/tools/testnet-faucet/?subnet=c&token=c
This tool allows eligible users to request AVAX for the Fuji Network, Avalanche’s primary testnet environment. Always ensure your wallet is connected correctly and that you're requesting funds for the right network.
💡 Pro Tip: Testnet AVAX cannot be converted into real AVAX. These tokens exist solely for development and testing purposes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there a free AVAX faucet for mainnet?
No. There is no public faucet that distributes real (mainnet) AVAX. To obtain mainnet AVAX, you must purchase it on a cryptocurrency exchange, receive it via transfer, or earn it through participation in the ecosystem.
Q: Can I get testnet AVAX without holding mainnet AVAX?
Yes. While holding mainnet AVAX gives you direct access to testnet funds, developers without mainnet balance can request assistance from admins in the official Avalanche Discord community.
Q: How much testnet AVAX can I get from the faucet?
The amount varies based on network policies and usage limits. Typically, requests yield enough AVAX to cover multiple test transactions or contract deployments.
Q: Why do I need AVAX for gas fees on Avalanche?
Like Ethereum and other EVM-compatible chains, Avalanche uses its native token (AVAX) to pay for computation and storage resources. This prevents spam and incentivizes network security.
Q: Does bridging assets always give me 0.1 AVAX?
Only if you bridge at least $75 worth of assets to the Avalanche network for the first time. The 0.1 AVAX airdrop is a one-time incentive and does not apply when withdrawing from Avalanche.
Q: Are testnet funds safe to use for learning?
Absolutely. Testnet environments are designed for experimentation. You can simulate real-world scenarios without financial risk, making them ideal for beginners and experienced developers alike.
Why Testnets Matter in Blockchain Development
Testnets like Fuji play a critical role in blockchain innovation. They allow developers to:
- Debug smart contracts before launch
- Simulate high-traffic scenarios
- Integrate with wallets and oracles safely
- Test cross-chain interoperability
By offering accessible ways to obtain testnet AVAX, Avalanche lowers the barrier to entry and supports a vibrant developer community.
Best Practices When Using AVAX Faucets
To make the most of your experience with testnet tools:
- Double-check network settings – Ensure your wallet (e.g., MetaMask) is configured for the Fuji testnet, not mainnet.
- Use trusted sources only – Only interact with faucets hosted on official domains like
core.apporavax.network. - Never share private keys – Legitimate faucets will never ask for sensitive information.
- Monitor expiration dates – Some testnet tokens may expire after a period of inactivity.
- Keep records of transactions – Useful for debugging and demonstrating project progress.
Final Thoughts
While there’s no public faucet for real AVAX, the Avalanche ecosystem provides robust alternatives for both users and developers. From incentive-based airdrops during bridging to developer-friendly testnet distribution, Avalanche ensures smooth onboarding across its platform.
Whether you're testing your first smart contract or exploring cross-chain DeFi opportunities, knowing how to access AVAX—on both testnet and mainnet—is a foundational step.
By combining practical incentives with strong developer support, Avalanche continues to position itself as a leading choice for next-generation decentralized applications.
Keywords: AVAX faucet, testnet AVAX, Fuji testnet, Avalanche Bridge, get AVAX, blockchain development, EVM-compatible network, decentralized applications