---
title: How to generate a Google API key for your app
description: Create a Google API key to enable your app to connect with Google services like Maps or Sheets.
---

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# How to generate a Google API key for your app

## Create a Google API key to enable your app to connect with Google services like Maps or Sheets.

Some app plugins require a Google API key to access services like Google Maps. This key connects your app to your Google Cloud project and authorizes data access. With a valid API key, your app can:

- Autofill addresses from Google Maps
- Show the user's current location on a map
- Display pinned locations using Google Maps

---

### **Requirements**

- A Google account and access to the Google Cloud Console.
- Billing must be enabled on your Google Cloud project.

---

### **How to generate a Google API key**

1. Go to the [Google Cloud Console](https://console.cloud.google.com/) and sign in
2. At the top, click the **project dropdown** and select an existing project or click **New Project** to create one
3. Name your project and click **Create**
4. In the left menu, go to **APIs & Services \> Library**
5. Search for and **enable** any APIs you plan to use (e.g., Maps JavaScript API, Geocoding API, Google Sheets API)
6. Once enabled, go to **APIs & Services \> Credentials**
7. Click **+ Create Credentials**, then select **API key**
8. Copy the key that appears — this is your API key
9. (Optional but recommended) Click **Restrict Key** to

     - Limit usage to specific APIs
     - Restrict usage by HTTP referrers (e.g., your app domain)
10. Save your key

---

### **Troubleshooting tips**

- API key not working? Check that the correct APIs are enabled in your project
- Key shows usage errors: Make sure billing is active and the key is unrestricted or correctly scoped
- Feature in app isn’t loading: Confirm the plugin or integration you're using is configured with the API key
- Quota exceeded: Review your usage in the Cloud Console and request higher limits if needed

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