How to Get X API Access and API Keys

Follow this guide to obtain X API access (Twitter API) and generate the API keys needed for your applications that post or read from X.

Why Do You Need X API Access?

The X API allows your applications to interact with X's platform programmatically. You can post updates automatically, monitor mentions, analyze trends, and create custom workflows for your X presence - all through secure API endpoints.

1

Register for a Developer Account

First, you need to register for a developer account on the X Developer Portal:

  1. Go to the X Developer Portal
  2. Click "Register for free account" if you don't already have a developer account
  3. Sign in with your existing X account credentials or create a new account
  4. Complete the required registration information

X requires you to specify how you plan to use their API:

  1. On the registration form, you'll need to provide your intended use case
  2. Be specific about how you'll use the API. For example:
"We will be using Twitter / X.com API to post on our Twitter / X.com account once daily or once weekly. The posted content will be shorter version of content or blogs from our website. We use MarketPro.fi to automate posting. The main goal is to get followers and visibility."
  1. Review and agree to the X Developer Agreement and Policy
  2. Submit your application
2

Set OAUTH permissions

After approval, you'll will see X has already created default project and default app.

  1. Navigate to the "App settings" -> "User authentication settings" -> setup
  2. We need these Oauth permissions just to use older Twitter API v1 to upload images to your Twitter account.
  3. Add required information:
    • App Permissions: Read and write
    • Type of App: Web app, automated app or bot.
    • Callback URI / Redirect URL: Enter your website's callback URL (e.g., https://www.yourdomain.com/callback)
    • Website URL: Enter your main website address
    • Organization name (optional): Add if applicable
    • Organization URL (optional): Add if applicable
    • Terms of service and Privacy policy URLs: Add if you have them
  4. Click "Save" to get your client id and secret.
  5. Save your client id and secret on your computer because you can not see them after this.
  6. Click Done.
X API App Information Setup
3

Generate and Save API Keys

Now it's time to generate and securely store your API credentials:

  1. On the Developer Portal, navigate to "Keys and Tokens"
  2. Generate your API Key and generate your API Key Secret
  3. You will also need to create Access token and access token secret
  4. Important: Copy all your API Keys and API Key Secrets immediately as the secret will only be shown once
  5. Store these credentials securely — they provide access to your X account
Security Warning
  • Save your API keys in a secure location
  • Never share your API keys publicly
  • Do not store keys in public repositories or code
  • If you believe your keys have been compromised, regenerate them immediately

Important Notes About X API Usage

  • Rate Limits: X API has rate limits that vary by access level and endpoint
  • Access Tiers: The free Essential tier has limitations on usage and available endpoints
  • Authentication: Different API endpoints have different authentication requirements
  • Security: Always use environment variables to store your API keys, never hardcode them
  • Compliance: Ensure your application complies with X's Developer Terms of Service

Need Help with X API Integration?

X provides extensive documentation and community support for developers implementing their API.

X API Documentation
Developer Community

Frequently Asked Questions About X API

How long does API approval take?

Approval times vary, but most applications for Essential access are processed within a few hours to a few days. More complex use cases requiring elevated access may take longer.

Is X API access free?

X offers an Essential tier with free access, though with limited endpoints and rate limits. For higher volumes or additional features, paid tiers are available.

What happens if I exceed rate limits?

If you exceed your rate limits, API requests will be temporarily denied until the limit resets. Implement rate limiting in your application to avoid disruptions.

Can I use X API for automated posting?

Yes, automated posting is permitted within X's guidelines. Be sure to review the Automation rules to ensure your content strategy complies with platform policies.