You’ll need an OpenAI API key if you want to use ChatGPT, Janitor AI, or any other OpenAI app in your own work. It’s like a digital pass that lets you use OpenAI tools like GPT-4, DALL·E, or Whisper through code or apps. This blog post will teach you how to get, handle, use, and keep your OpenAI API key safe. It will also tell you where to find it, its price, and if free API keys are available.
What Is an OpenAI API Key?
You can safely use OpenAI’s tools in your apps or services with an OpenAI API key, which is a unique code. It works like a password, but only for apps and not for people.
How to Get Your OpenAI API Key
Follow these simple steps:
- Go to the official site: platform.openai.com/account/api-keys
- Sign in with your OpenAI account
- Click Create new secret key
- Copy and save the key right away you won’t see it again
How to Find Your API Key Later
You can’t see your full key again after you create it. If you lose it:
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- Go to your OpenAI dashboard
- Revoke the old key
- Create a new one
This section is also where you’ll find the list of keys you’ve made.
How to Manage Your API Keys
The OpenAI dashboard lets you:
- Create multiple keys
- Give each key a name
- Remove any key instantly
- Use different keys for different apps or team members
This is useful if you’re using tools like Janitor AI, ChatGPT plugins, or your app.
Are There Free API Keys or Generators?
No, there are no real free API key generators. All legitimate keys come from the official OpenAI site. Some websites or YouTube videos offering free API keys may be scams or harmful.
OpenAI does offer:
- $5 free credit for new users
- Pay-as-you-go billing after that
OpenAI API Pricing (2025)
| Tool | Cost per 1K tokens | What it’s used for |
|---|---|---|
| GPT-3.5 Turbo | $0.0015–$0.002 | Basic AI tasks |
| GPT-4o | $0.005–$0.01 | Advanced, fast AI use |
| DALL·E 3 | ~$0.02 per image | Image generation |
| Whisper | ~$0.006 per minute | Speech-to-text services |
Visit OpenAI pricing page for more.
Should You Share Your API Key?
It’s not a good idea.
Sharing your key can:
- Put your account at risk
- Lead to high billing charges
- Break OpenAI’s rules
Instead, use OpenAI’s team options or create separate keys.
Can you download the API key?
There’s no download option. After creating a key, copy it and store it safely in a secure notes app or password manager. If you lose it, you’ll need to make a new one.
Is There a Difference Between ChatGPT API Key and Platform Key?
Not really. They’re the same key, just used in different places:
- ChatGPT API key is for apps or services like Janitor AI
- Platform key refers to the one you get from OpenAI’s site
Where Can You Use Your OpenAI Key?
You can use it to power:
- Janitor AI chatbot
- Custom GPT bots
- Image generation apps
- Voice-to-text services
- AI-powered websites or automations
Tips for Keeping Your Key Safe
- Never post it publicly
- Use a secure storage app
- Delete old or unused keys
- Monitor your usage in the billing dashboard
- Label keys clearly for each use
Conclusion
Getting and using your OpenAI API key is simple if you follow the right steps. Avoid scams that promise free or unlimited access. Instead, use the official OpenAI platform to generate and manage your keys. Whether you’re exploring AI for fun, study, or serious development, a properly managed API key is your first step to success.