How to Get a DeepSeek API Key
How do I get a DeepSeek API key?
Sign in to DeepSeek's console, create a new API key, and copy it immediately — it is shown only once. A payment method is required before your first call. Set it as DEEPSEEK_API_KEY in your environment; full steps below.
Verified 2026-08-09 — source
Steps
- Sign in at platform.deepseek.com and open API keys.
- Click "Create new API key", name it, and confirm.
- Copy the key immediately — DeepSeek shows the full value exactly once.
- Add balance under Billing before your first call; there is no ongoing free tier.
- Set it as DEEPSEEK_API_KEY in your environment, never committed to source control.
Key facts
| Env var | DEEPSEEK_API_KEY |
| Payment required before first call | Yes |
| Scoped to project/org | No |
| Shown once | Yes |
FAQ
Do I need a credit card to get a DeepSeek API key?
Yes — DeepSeek requires a payment method on file before the key can make live calls.
Can I see my DeepSeek API key again after closing the page?
No — DeepSeek shows the full key value exactly once. If you lose it, revoke it and create a new one.
Is this the same as an All AI Ask API key?
No. This page is about creating an API key with DeepSeek directly, for calling their API yourself. For an All AI Ask key — one key that routes to DeepSeek and every other provider we support — see /api-keys.
