How to Create and Manage OpenAI API Keys

How to Create and Manage Your OpenAI API Key

To get or manage your API keys, go to the OpenAI API Keys page.

Step 1: Sign Up or Log In

If you’re not yet registered on the OpenAI Platform, click the “Sign Up” button:

OpenAI Sign Up page

Complete the registration form and create your organization to start using the OpenAI Platform:

OpenAI registration form

Step 2: Create Your API Key

After registering, you can create your first API key immediately or do it later. Click “Create new secret key” on the API Keys page:

Create new secret key

Enter a descriptive name for your key, then click Create. The system will generate a unique API key for your account:

Generated API key example

Step 3: Add API Credits

You can add credits to your account now or later when needed:

OpenAI add API credits

Step 4: Manage Your Keys

To view or manage your keys at any time, navigate to your Dashboard → API Keys section:

OpenAI API Keys Dashboard

Important Security Notice

Never share your API key with others or expose it in client-side code (e.g., JavaScript running in a browser). If an API key is exposed publicly, OpenAI may automatically disable it for security reasons.