# API Keys (https://terac.com/docs/researchers/integrations/api-keys)

Generate and manage API keys for programmatic access to Terac.

API keys let you interact with Terac programmatically through the [Terac API](https://terac.com/docs/developers/guides). Use them to automate opportunity creation, manage recruitment, and retrieve submission data.

## Creating an API Key [#creating-an-api-key]

1. **Go to Settings**

   Navigate to your organization's Settings page and select **API Keys**.

2. **Generate a key**

   Click **Create API Key**. Give it a descriptive name so you can identify it later (e.g., "Production Integration", "Staging Tests").

3. **Copy the key**

   The full key is shown only once. Copy it immediately and store it securely. You cannot retrieve the full key later.

## Using API Keys [#using-api-keys]

Include your API key in the `Authorization` header of every request:

```
Authorization: Bearer YOUR_API_KEY
```

## Key Scope [#key-scope]

API keys are scoped to your organization. A single key can access all projects and opportunities within the organization.

## Rate Limits [#rate-limits]

API requests are rate-limited to **100 requests per minute** per key. If you exceed this limit, requests return a `429 RATE_LIMITED` error. Wait and retry with exponential backoff.

## Key Management [#key-management]

| Action     | Description                               |
| ---------- | ----------------------------------------- |
| **Rotate** | Generate a new key and revoke the old one |
| **Revoke** | Immediately disable a key                 |
| **Rename** | Update the key's display name             |

## Security Best Practices [#security-best-practices]

* Never commit API keys to version control
* Use environment variables to store keys in your applications
* Rotate keys periodically
* Use separate keys for production and development
* Revoke keys immediately if they may be compromised

## What's Next? [#whats-next]

- [API Documentation](https://terac.com/docs/developers/guides): Full API reference and guides
- [Security](https://terac.com/docs/researchers/team/security): Organization security settings