If your website uses Google Maps to display location data, you may have encountered issues where the map shows an error or doesn’t load at all. This is often due to missing or incorrect API credentials.

Google now requires each website using Google Maps to generate its own API key and link it to a Google Cloud project. This article will walk you through the steps to generate a Google Maps API key, set up billing, and share access with your web development team.

Why Do I Need a Google Maps API Key?

Google has updated its policies regarding the use of Google Maps services on websites. Every website now needs its own API key, which is tied to a billing account. Don’t worry—Google Maps services remain free for most small to medium businesses, but billing details are still required to set up the API key.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Your Google Maps API Key

Step 1: Create a Google Account (if you don’t have one already)

Before you can generate a Google Maps API key, you’ll need a Google account. If you already have one, you can skip this step. Otherwise:

1. Visit Google Account Creation.
2. Fill in your details and create your new Google account.

Step 2: Access Google Cloud Console

1. Go to Google Cloud Console and log in using your Google account credentials.

   This platform allows you to manage all your cloud services, including API keys, billing, and project settings.

Step 3: Create a New Google Cloud Project

1. On the Google Cloud Console homepage, click the project dropdown in the top left and select “New Project.”

2. Name your project. You can use your website name or any other identifier. For example, “MyBusinessWebsite.”

3. Click Create to finalize the new project.

Step 4: Enable Google Maps API

Once your project is created, you need to activate the Google Maps JavaScript API.

1. In the Google Cloud Console, click the APIs & Services option on the left sidebar.

2. Select Library from the dropdown menu.

3. In the search bar, type “Google Maps JavaScript API.”

4. Click on it and then click Enable.

This step activates the necessary functionality for Google Maps to work on your website.

Step 5: Set Up Billing for Your Project

Google Maps API services are linked to billing, though for most websites, usage stays within the free tier.

1. In the left-hand menu, click on Billing.

2. If you haven’t set up billing before, click on Link a Billing Account and follow the prompts to add your business information and payment details.

   • Enter your business name, address, and any other required information.
   • Add your credit card or payment method. Google will not charge you unless your usage exceeds their free tier (which typically won’t happen for most small businesses).

3. Confirm the billing setup and link it to your newly created project.

Step 6: Generate the API Key

Now that billing is enabled and your project is set up, you can generate your API key.

1. In the left-hand menu, navigate to APIs & Services > Credentials.

2. Click Create Credentials and select API Key.

3. Google will generate a unique API key for you. Copy this key and save it in a secure location. You will use this key to integrate Google Maps on your website.

Step 7: Provide Your API Key to Us

Finally, send the generated API key to us and we will integrate it into your website’s code, ensuring that Google Maps works seamlessly without any errors.

Conclusion

Setting up a Google Maps API key is a straightforward process, but it’s essential for ensuring your website's maps functionality works correctly without interruptions. By following these steps, you’ll have your project set up, billing enabled, and API key generated in no time.

Need Help?

If you run into any issues or need assistance, feel free to contact us at support@spindogs.com or 02920 480 720, and we will guide you through the process.