How to Get an OpenAI/ChatGPT API Key (2025 Updated)
Are you looking to integrate OpenAI’s powerful AI tools like ChatGPT into your app, website, or automation workflow? To get started, you’ll need an OpenAI API key. This key gives you access to OpenAI’s services through your own applications.
In this updated 2025 guide, we’ll walk you through step-by-step on how to get your own API key from OpenAI quickly and securely.
🔐 Step 1: Visit the OpenAI Platform
Start by navigating to the official OpenAI platform:
👉 https://platform.openai.com
If you already have a ChatGPT or OpenAI account, simply click the “Login” button at the top-right corner.
If not, click “Sign Up” to create an account. The same account works for both ChatGPT and OpenAI APIs.
👤 Step 2: Log in to Your Account
Once you’re on the platform, log in using your credentials. This will take you to your OpenAI dashboard where you can manage API keys, usage, billing, and more.
🔑 Step 3: Go to the API Keys Section
In the top-right corner, click on your account avatar or initials, then choose “API Keys” from the dropdown menu.
Before you can create a key, OpenAI will require phone number verification for security purposes.
- Click “Start Verification”.
- Enter your phone number.
- Complete the verification process.
🆕 Step 4: Create a New API Key
Once verified, you’ll be able to create your first API key.
- Click the “Create New Secret Key” button.
- Name your key (e.g.,
first-key). - Click “Create Secret Key”.
Your new API key will be shown once only—make sure to copy and store it safely.
⚠️ Important: After you click “Done”, you cannot view this key again. If lost, you’ll need to create a new one.
💳 Step 5: Ensure You Have Credits
To use the API, your account must have a positive credit balance.
- Go to Settings.
- Click on the Billing tab.
- Click “Add to Credit Balance” and add the desired amount.
Your API access will only work if you have enough credit to use OpenAI’s services.
✅ That’s It!
You now have your OpenAI API key ready to go! You can integrate it into your projects, connect it to tools like Zapier or Make, or build your own AI-powered applications.
🎯 Conclusion
Getting your OpenAI API key is a simple process, and it’s your gateway to unlocking the power of AI in your own projects. Whether you’re building chatbots, automation tools, writing assistants, or even full-fledged apps, this key gives you full access to OpenAI’s suite of tools.
Just remember:
And never share your key publicly.
Keep your secret key safe.
Ensure your account has credit.
