Getting API access to a large language model involves more than creating an account. Because each provider uses a different console, billing system, credential format, and security policy, the process varies. This document provides the steps to get, configure, and test API keys for five major AI platforms, which helps you avoid common issues when you start building.
Each provider requires a verified account and a payment method. You must have a credit or debit card ready. Because most platforms display your API key only once, you must store it securely.
1
OpenAI
API Key
No
2
Anthropic (Claude)
API Key
No
3
Google Gemini
API Key
Yes
OpenAI
Standard API key
Requires a minimum $5 credit purchase to process requests. The key is displayed only once.
Anthropic Claude
API key (uses the x-api-key header instead of a Bearer token)
Uses a prepaid credit model. Account approval might be required depending on your region.
Google Gemini
Standard API key
Offers a free tier. You can view your key multiple times in AI Studio. For production workloads, use Vertex AI.
These rules apply to every provider in this document.
Do not commit your API keys to a public repository.
Store your keys in environment variables or a secure secrets manager. Do not store them in plain text files.
Set spending limits, if the provider supports them, to prevent unexpected charges.
Rotate your keys periodically. If you suspect a leak, rotate them immediately.
Grant the minimum required permissions for each key.
OpenAI API Documentation: platform.openai.com/docs
OpenAI API Keys Dashboard: platform.openai.com/api-keys
Anthropic Console: console.anthropic.com
Anthropic API Documentation: docs.anthropic.com
Google AI Studio: aistudio.google.com
Gemini API Documentation: ai.google.dev/gemini-api/docs
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