# How to create a Makeform API key

Create an API key from **Settings** > **API keys** in your dashboard to connect scripts or MCP clients to Makeform. API keys are free and work with both the REST API and the MCP server.

**Is it free?** Yes. API keys have no paid plan requirement.

## Steps

1. Click **Settings** in the dashboard sidebar.
2. Open the **API keys** tab.
3. In the **API Keys** card, enter a **Key name**.
4. Choose a **Scope**: **User** for the whole account, or **Workspace** for only forms in the selected workspace. You must be able to manage that workspace.
5. Click **Generate**.
6. Copy the key immediately. The message says **Copy this key now. It will not be shown again.**

## Use the key

Keys start with `mf_live_`. Send your key in the authorization header as `Authorization: Bearer mf_live_...`.

The same key works with the REST API at `https://api.makeform.ai` and the MCP server at `https://mcp.makeform.ai`. Here is an example REST request; replace `YOUR_MAKEFORM_API_KEY` with your key:

```sh
curl --request POST 'https://api.makeform.ai/forms' \
  --header 'Authorization: Bearer YOUR_MAKEFORM_API_KEY' \
  --header 'Content-Type: application/json' \
  --data '{"name":"Customer Feedback"}'
```

:::callout{type="warning"}
Keep API keys secret. Never put them in browser code, public repositories, prompts you share, or logs.
:::

## Revoke a key

Click **Revoke** next to the key. Confirm at **Revoke API key?** to revoke it.

## FAQ

### What is the difference between user and workspace scope?

User scope covers the whole account. Workspace scope covers only forms in the selected workspace, which you must be able to manage.

### Can I view the full key again later?

No, the key is not shown again after generation. Copy it when it appears and keep it secret.

### Do I need separate keys for REST and MCP?

No, one Makeform API key works with both services. Both use the key in a Bearer authorization header.

### Where are apps I approved through OAuth?

Approved OAuth apps, such as Claude, appear under **Connected apps**. They are listed separately from API keys.

Makeform is a free AI form builder: describe what you want to collect and it builds the form for you, with unlimited forms and submissions on the free plan.

## Related

- [Use the Makeform MCP server](/help/integrations/makeform-mcp-server)
- [Connect Makeform to Claude](/help/integrations/connect-makeform-to-claude)
- [Webhooks](/help/integrations/webhooks)
- [Developer resources](/help/developer)