Getting started with the Google Places API might seem daunting, but once you know the steps, it’s quite straightforward. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you create and manage your API key—no confusing tech talk involved!
Create Your Google Cloud Project
- You’ll also see any remaining project quota in the notice area.
- Go to console.cloud.google.com and log in with your Google account.
- Click the project dropdown at the top of the page and select New Project.
- Give your project a name that helps you remember what it’s for.
- If needed, add your organization details.
- Click Create and wait for the confirmation message.
Enable the Places API
- Open APIs & Services: From the Cloud Console’s side menu, go to APIs & Services.
- Search for “Places API”: Type “Places API” in the search bar.
- Enable it: Click on Places API, then hit the Enable button to allow your project to use this service.
Set Up Your API Key
- Go to Credentials: Still under APIs & Services, choose Credentials.
- Create an API Key: Click Create Credentials, then pick API Key.
- Copy Your Key: Your new key will automatically pop up. Copy it and save it somewhere safe—you’ll need it in your application.
Secure Your API Key
- API Key Settings: Go back to Credentials, then click your newly created key.
- Add Restrictions: Limit how and where your key can be used:
- Application restrictions: Restrict the key to certain websites, IP addresses, or mobile apps.
- API restrictions: Restrict the key to only use the Places API.
- Save Your Changes: Don’t forget to click Save after making these updates.
Set Up Billing
- Link a Billing Account: Go to the Billing option in the side menu. Connect your project to a valid billing account.
- Review Pricing: The Google Places API uses pay-as-you-go pricing, but you also get monthly free credits.
- Monitor Usage: Set up alerts to track your spending and avoid unexpected charges.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Google Places API free?
Not entirely. You get a monthly free credit, but beyond that, charges apply based on how many requests you make. - What is the cost of using the Google Places API?
The API key is free to create, but usage is billed per API call. You get $200 in free monthly credits for Map-related APIs and an additional $300 credit for your first 90 days in Google Cloud. - Can I use the Places API without billing?
No. You must have a billing account set up to use the Places API, even if you’re only tapping into free credits. - What if I exceed my free usage limit?
Your application may display an error about exceeding your quota, and you’ll start getting charged for further requests. - Is there a “Google Places API Key Generator?”
Not really. The creation process happens in your Google Cloud Console. It’s sometimes called a “generator,” but you manage everything through the console itself.
You’ve now got the know-how to create, secure, and troubleshoot a Google Places API key. Whether you’re building a café-finding app or a midnight taco tracker, the Places API makes location searches quick and easy. Good luck with your project!