Google Maps API Setup Guide
Follow these steps to generate your keys. Choose any project or key names you prefer.
Visual Walkthrough
Watch this video for a live demonstration of the steps below.
Phase 1: Project & Billing
Create Your Project
- 1. Visit the Google Cloud Console.
- 2. Click the Project Dropdown (top left).
- 3. Click "New Project".
- 4. Give it any name you like (e.g., "My Store Maps").
Enable Billing
Google requires a billing account to verify your identity. You get $200 free credit every month. Go to the "Billing" tab and link a card to your project.
Phase 2: Enable the APIs
Search for and Enable these 5 services in the Library:
Phase 3: Generate & Secure Your Keys
Browser Key (Public)
Used to show the map to customers
1. Create Credentials
Select API Key. Name it whatever you want (e.g., "Public Key").
2. Website Restriction
Select Websites (HTTP referrers).
3. API Restrictions
Restrict this key to Maps JavaScript API and Places API.
Server Key (Private)
Used for calculating prices
1. Create Second Key
Name this key something clear (e.g., "Private Server Key").
2. IP Restriction
Select IP addresses (web servers).
3. API Restrictions
Restrict this key to Routes API, Geocoding API, and Directions API.