Need an OpenAI API key to use AI-powered tools like our Alt Text Generator? This comprehensive guide walks you through the entire process, from account creation to making your first API call.
💡 Quick Summary
Getting an OpenAI API key takes about 5 minutes. You'll need to create an account, verify your phone number, and add a payment method. Most tools cost just $0.01-0.03 per use.
Step 1: Create OpenAI Account
Navigate to OpenAI Platform
Go to platform.openai.com and click "Sign up" in the top right corner.
Choose Sign-up Method
You can sign up with:
- Email address
- Google account
- Microsoft account
- Apple ID
Verify Your Email
Check your email for a verification link from OpenAI and click it to confirm your account.
Step 2: Phone Verification
OpenAI requires phone verification for all API accounts to prevent abuse.
Add Phone Number
Enter your phone number when prompted. OpenAI will send you a verification code via SMS.
⚠️ Important Notes
Each phone number can only be used for one OpenAI account. You cannot use VoIP numbers or virtual phone services.
Step 3: Add Payment Method
OpenAI moved to a prepaid model in 2024. You need to add credits before using the API.
Navigate to Billing
Go to Settings → Billing in your OpenAI dashboard.
Add Payment Method
Add a credit card or debit card. OpenAI accepts major cards from most countries.
Add Credits
Purchase credits to use the API. Minimum purchase is typically $5. For tools like alt text generation, $5 can handle hundreds of images.
Step 4: Generate API Key
Go to API Keys
In your OpenAI dashboard, navigate to "API keys" in the left sidebar.
Create New Key
Click "Create new secret key" and give it a descriptive name like "JunkDrawer Tools".
Copy and Save
Copy your API key immediately! You won't be able to see it again. Store it securely.
🔒 Security Best Practices
Never share your API key publicly. Set usage limits in your OpenAI account to prevent unexpected charges. Most tools need only a few dollars per month.
Understanding Costs
OpenAI pricing is based on tokens (roughly 4 characters = 1 token):
- GPT-4o mini: $0.15 per 1M input tokens, $0.60 per 1M output tokens
- GPT-4o: $2.50 per 1M input tokens, $10.00 per 1M output tokens
- Image processing: Varies by image size and detail level
💰 Real-world Costs
For typical use with JunkDrawer.Tools: Alt text generation costs about $0.02 per image. Text processing costs pennies per request.
Setting Usage Limits
Protect yourself from unexpected charges:
- Go to Settings → Limits in your OpenAI dashboard
- Set a monthly usage limit (e.g., $10-20)
- Enable email notifications for 75% and 100% usage
- Set up hard limits to stop usage at your budget
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Phone Verification Problems
- Make sure you're using a real phone number (not VoIP)
- Check that your number isn't already associated with another account
- Wait a few minutes before requesting another code
Payment Issues
- Some international cards may be declined
- Try a different card or contact your bank
- Ensure your billing address matches your card
API Key Not Working
- Double-check you copied the entire key
- Make sure you have credits in your account
- Verify the key hasn't been revoked
Using Your API Key Safely
Once you have your API key, you can use it with JunkDrawer.Tools:
- Your key is stored locally in your browser
- It's sent only to OpenAI, never to our servers
- You can clear it anytime from the tool settings
- Set spending limits for peace of mind
🎯 Ready to Start?
Try your new API key with our Alt Text Generator - it's perfect for testing and costs just pennies per image.
Related
AI Search & Alt Text
How ChatGPT, Bard, Perplexity & the rest of the AI gang 'see' your images.
Jobmatch Evaluator
Test your resume against job descriptions using your OpenAI API key.