How to Get a Google Maps API Key

Step 1: Sign In or Create a Google Account

Go to https://accounts.google.com/ and either sign in to your existing Google account or create a new one.

Step 2: Access Google Cloud Console

Navigate to https://console.cloud.google.com/

Step 3: Create a New Project

• On the project selector page, click "Create Project" to begin creating a new Cloud project
• Enter a project name (for example, "My Maps Project" or "Website Maps") - recommend entering your domain name with no http prefix and no periods..
• Click the "Create" button

Step 4: Set Up Billing

This is required even if you only plan to use the free tier:

• Give your billing project a name, then click Continue 
• Choose your country from the dropdown
• Enter your contact information and payment details into the form, then choose Next
• Complete the billing setup (you'll get $200 free monthly credit which covers most usage)

Step 5: Enable the Required APIs

• From the navigation menu (top left), select "APIs & Services" → "Library"
• Use the search bar to find "Maps JavaScript API" and press enter 
• Use the search bar to find "Directions API" and press enter
• Click on "Maps JavaScript API" in the results
• Click the "Enable" button

Step 6: Create Your API Key

• Go to the Google Maps Platform > Credentials page
• Click "Create credentials" > "API key" 
• A pop-up window will appear, revealing the Map API key that has been generated for you 
• Copy this key immediately and save it somewhere safe
• Click "Close"

Step 7: Restrict Your API Key

To prevent unauthorized use and unexpected charges:

• On the Credentials page, click on your newly created API key
• Under Application restrictions, choose one: 
  • "HTTP referrers (websites)" for web applications - then add your website URLs (e.g., https://yoursite.com/*)
• Under API restrictions, select "Restrict key" and choose which specific APIs this key can access.  Make sure Maps Javascript API and Directions API are checked.
• Click "Save"

Note: It may take up to 5 minutes for settings to take effect

Important Reminders

• The API key will initially be labeled generically (like "API Key 1") - rename it for clarity
• Keep your API key secure and never share it publicly
• Monitor your usage in the Google Cloud Console to avoid unexpected charges
• The $200 monthly credit covers the vast majority of small to medium usage needs