# OpenAI API

### How to Obtain an OpenAI API Key <a href="#how-to-obtain-an-openai-api-key" id="how-to-obtain-an-openai-api-key"></a>

1. Create an [OpenAI account](https://platform.openai.com/signup) or [sign in](https://platform.openai.com/login).
2. Navigate to the [API key page](https://platform.openai.com/account/api-keys).
3. Click "Create new secret key" and optionally name the key.

{% hint style="warning" %}
Please note that free trial accounts have a request limit of only 3 requests per minute. To **increase API limits**, top up your OpenAI balance with a minimum of $5.
{% endhint %}

OpenAI uses a usage-based charging model for its API access. Monitor your account to track usage and manage costs effectively.