How to Get OpenAI API Key

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):

💰 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:

  1. Go to Settings → Limits in your OpenAI dashboard
  2. Set a monthly usage limit (e.g., $10-20)
  3. Enable email notifications for 75% and 100% usage
  4. Set up hard limits to stop usage at your budget

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Phone Verification Problems

Payment Issues

API Key Not Working

Using Your API Key Safely

Once you have your API key, you can use it with JunkDrawer.Tools:

🎯 Ready to Start?

Try your new API key with our Alt Text Generator - it's perfect for testing and costs just pennies per image.