How To Get an OpenAI API Key
An OpenAI API key is an identifier code you need in order to use OpenAI’s language APIs in your own applications. The key allows your apps to access and integrate OpenAI’s language AI features, such as text completion or content generation. Keys enable secure, reliable access to the APIs and let you build innovative products powered by the latest artificial intelligence.
This page will show you how to get your own OpenAI API key.
Please note: The ChatGPT Plus subscription does not include OpenAI API keys. You need a separate account with OpenAI to access the API keys.
If you already have an OpenAI account, skip ahead to STEP 2: Set Up a Payment Method. If you already have an OpenAI account with a payment method set up, skip ahead to STEP 3: Generate an API Key.
Otherwise, start with STEP 1.
Go to openai.com/product and click the "Get started" button.
Create an OpenAI account using your email and password.
Check your email for a message from OpenAI. Click the button in the email to confirm your email address. This is required to activate your OpenAI account.
Fill in your information on the "Tell us about you" form.
Hover over the OpenAI logo at the top left corner of the page. This activates a slide-out menu. In the slide-out menu, click "Settings" to access your account settings page.
Click on "Billing."
Then click "Payment methods."
Add your payment method.
Enter your credit or debit card details, then click "Add payment method."
Hover over the OpenAI logo to activate the slide-out menu.
Then, click on "API keys."
Click on the "Start verification" button. Enter your phone number and follow the instructions to get your account verified.
Click "Create new secret key."
Create a name for your new key (optional), then click the "Create secret key" button.
Your OpenAI API key has been created!
Do not close the popup window until you have copied the key. You will not have another chance to copy the key. Save the key in a secure place.
Congratulations on creating your OpenAI API key!
For pricing and related details about OpenAI API keys, visit OpenAI's Pricing page.