How to Create an OpenAI API Key and Set It Up (Step-by-Step Guide)

If you’re using a Chrome extension (like a dictation tool) that requires your own OpenAI API key, this guide will walk you through everything—from account creation to generating and using your key safely.

1. Create an OpenAI Account

To use the API, you first need an account on the OpenAI platform.

Go to the official site:
OpenAI Platform

Click Sign Up and create an account using your email, Google account, or Microsoft account.

If you already have an account, just sign in.

2. Set Up Billing (Required for API Access)

Before you can use the API, you need to add a payment method.

• Log in to your OpenAI account

• Go to the billing section:
  OpenAI Billing

• Add a credit card or payment method

OpenAI API usage is pay-as-you-go, meaning you only pay for what you use.

3. Generate Your API Key

Once billing is set up, you can create your API key:

• Go to the API keys page:
  OpenAI API Keys

• Click “Create new secret key”

• Copy the key immediately (you won’t be able to see it again later)

Important:

• Treat this key like a password

• Do NOT share it publicly or commit it to GitHub

4. Add the API Key to Your Chrome Extension

Now that you have your key, you can use it in your extension:

Typical steps:

• Open your Chrome extension settings

• Find a field labeled:

  • “OpenAI API Key”

  • “API Key”

  • “Token”

• Paste your secret key

• Save settings

Once saved, your extension can now make requests to OpenAI on your behalf.

5. Best Practices for Safety & Cost Control

• Never expose your key in public code repositories

• Rotate your key if you think it’s been compromised

• Monitor usage in your OpenAI dashboard

• Set usage limits if needed in billing settings

• Only use trusted extensions that clearly explain how they store your key

6. Troubleshooting Common Issues

“Invalid API Key” error

• Make sure you copied the full key correctly

• Check that billing is enabled

“No access / quota exceeded”

• You may need to add payment info

• Or you’ve hit your usage limit

Extension not working

• Ensure the key is saved properly

• Refresh the extension or browser

• Check logs if available

Final Thoughts

Setting up an OpenAI API key only takes a few minutes, but it unlocks powerful features for tools like dictation, transcription, summarisation, and more. Once configured, your Chrome extension can securely communicate with OpenAI’s models using your own account.