Getting a Gemini API key is the first step to using Google Gemini API for AI-powered text, image, and multimodal applications. Google offers free access to the Gemini API through Google AI Studio, and you can generate an API key in under a minute—no credit card required for the free tier.
If you’re building production apps, treat your Gemini API key like a password. Most API issues (401, quota errors, misuse) happen due to poor key management—not the API itself.
This guide explains how to get a Gemini API key, how to secure it, and what to do next to start building with Gemini.
Quick Reference Table
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| API Name | Google Gemini API |
| Where to Get Key | Google AI Studio |
| Free Tier | ✅ Yes (no credit card required) |
| API Key Format | Starts with AIza |
| Dashboard | Gemini API Console (AI Studio) |
| Key Storage | Environment variable (GEMINI_API_KEY) |
| Best Practice | Server-side usage + API restrictions |
What Is the Gemini API?
The Gemini API is Google’s official interface for accessing Gemini generative AI models. Developers use the Google Gemini API to build applications for:
- Text generation and chatbots
- AI automation workflows
- Content summarization
- Code assistance
- Multimodal AI (text + images)
You manage access to Gemini using a Gemini API key, which authenticates your requests.
How to Get a Gemini API Key?
Before generating your key, make sure you have:
- A Google account
- Access to Google AI Studio
- Accepted:
- Google APIs Terms of Service
- Gemini API Additional Terms of Service
New users automatically get a Google Cloud project. Existing users can select or import an existing project.
Step 1: Sign In to Google AI Studio
Go to Google AI Studio and sign in using your Google account.
If this is your first visit, review and accept:
- Google APIs Terms of Service
- Gemini API Additional Terms
Click Continue to proceed.
Step 2: Open the Gemini API Console
From the left navigation panel:
- Click Dashboard
- Select API Keys, or click “Get API key” if visible
This section works as your Gemini API console for managing keys.
Step 3: Create Your Gemini API Key
Click Create API key.
You’ll see two options:
- Create a key in a new project (recommended)
- Create a key in an existing Google Cloud project
Choose one and click Create.
✔ Your Gemini API key is generated instantly
✔ Most keys start with AIza
Step 4: Copy and Secure Your API Key
Immediately copy your API key.
⚠️ Important:
- The full key will not be shown again
- Never share it publicly
- Never commit it to GitHub or public repos
Best practice: store it as an environment variable:
export GEMINI_API_KEY="your_api_key_here"What to Do After Getting Your Gemini API Key
Set the Key as an Environment Variable: Most Gemini SDKs automatically read the GEMINI_API_KEY variable.
Configure API Restrictions
Inside the Gemini API console, apply:
- API-level restrictions
- Usage limits
- Project-level controls
Start Building
Explore:
- Gemini API docs
- Official quickstarts
- Sample projects on Google AI for Developers
You can now use the Google Gemini API for text generation, AI automation, assistants, and more.
Security Best Practices for Gemini API Keys
To protect your Google Gemini API key, follow these best practices:
- Restrict the key to specific APIs in the Google Cloud Console
- Limit usage by IP address (if applicable)
- Use server-side requests in production
- Rotate API keys periodically
- Monitor usage and quotas
Never expose your key in client-side JavaScript.
Gemini API Free Tier & Pricing
- Gemini API free tier is available
- No credit card required initially
- Usage limits apply depending on the model
For advanced usage and higher limits, review Gemini API pricing in the official console.
Gemini API Docs & URL
After getting your key, explore the official resources:
- Gemini API docs – full reference and guides
- Gemini API URL – endpoint details
- Gemini API console – manage keys and restrictions
These resources help you make your first API request quickly.
FAQs
How do I get a Gemini API key?
You can get a Gemini API key by signing in to Google AI Studio, opening the API Keys section, and clicking Create API key. The key is generated instantly and is free to use on the basic tier.
Is the Gemini API key free?
Yes, the Gemini API free tier does not require a credit card. Google provides limited free usage so developers can test and build applications.
Where can I find the Gemini API console?
The Gemini API console is available inside Google AI Studio, where you can create, manage, restrict, and monitor your API keys.
What is the Gemini API URL?
The Gemini API URL is provided in the official Gemini API docs and depends on the model and request type you are using (text, multimodal, embeddings, etc.).
Can I use the Gemini API key in frontend JavaScript?
No, you should not expose your Gemini API key on the client side. For security reasons, use it only in server-side environments or protected backend services.
What happens if I lose my Gemini API key?
If you lose your Gemini API key, you cannot view it again. You must generate a new key in the Gemini API console and update it in your application.
Where can I learn how to use the Google Gemini API?
You can learn how to use the Google Gemini API by following the official Gemini API docs, which include quickstarts, examples, and integration guides.