How to Get Bing API Keys: A Complete GuideHow to Get Bing API Keys and Understand Bing API Key Changes in 2025How to Get Bing API Keys: A Complete Guide

Important Note: As of August 11, 2025, some of the core Bing Search APIs (like Bing Web Search and Bing Custom Search) will be retired.¹ New deployments are no longer available, and existing resources will be disabled.² Microsoft is transitioning to Azure Maps as its primary mapping platform and will also be leveraging Azure Marketplace for other Bing Search APIs.

Here’s a breakdown of the common Bing API keys and how to get them, keeping the upcoming changes in mind:

1. Bing Webmaster Tools API Key (for submitting content to Bing, like Google Search Console)³

This API is used for programmatic access to your Bing Webmaster Tools account, allowing you to submit URLs, sitemaps, and access site data.

How to get it:

1. Sign in to Bing Webmaster Tools: Go to https://www.bing.com/webmasters and sign in with your Microsoft, Google, or Facebook ID.
2. Add and Verify Your Site: If you haven’t already, add and verify your website in Bing Webmaster Tools.
3. Navigate to API Access:

• Click on the Settings (gear icon) in the top right corner.
• Select API Access from the dropdown menu.

4. Generate API Key:

• If you’re using API Access for the first time, you might need to read and accept the Terms and Conditions.
• Click on API Key.
• Then, click Generate API Key to create your key.
• Important: Only one API key can be generated per user.⁴ This key is for your user account, not specific to a site, so you can use it for all your verified sites.⁵
• Copy and save your API key securely!

2. Bing Search APIs (for integrating Bing search results into your applications)

These APIs allow developers to integrate Bing’s search capabilities (web, image, video, news, custom search, etc.) into their own applications.⁶

Current Status and Future: As mentioned above, some of these APIs are being retired. However, you can still access certain Bing Search APIs through Azure Marketplace.

How to get it (via Azure):

1. Create an Azure Account: You’ll need a Microsoft Azure account. You can sign up for a free account at https://azure.microsoft.com/.
2. Navigate to the Azure Portal: Once logged in, go to the Azure portal.
3. Create a Bing Search Resource:

• Click on “Create a resource” (or search for it).
• Search for “Bing Search v7” (or the specific Bing Search API you need) under the “AI + Machine Learning” category.
• Follow the prompts to choose your subscription, resource group, and location.
• Click “Create.”

4. Get Your API Key:

• Once your Bing Search resource is deployed, you’ll receive an API key.⁷ This key is used to authenticate your requests when calling the Bing Search API.
• Store this key securely!

3. Bing Maps API Key (for map functionalities)

If you’re looking to embed maps, perform geocoding, routing, or use basemap tile data in your applications, you’ll need a Bing Maps API key.⁸

Current Status and Future: Microsoft announced that Bing Maps for Enterprise and its API will be discontinued. Azure Maps will be the single unified enterprise mapping platform.⁹ You can continue using existing Bing Maps licenses for a period, but new development should focus on Azure Maps.

How to get it (for Bing Maps, transitioning to Azure Maps):

1. Bing Maps Portal: You would typically go to the Bing Maps Portal.
2. Sign in with Microsoft Account: Sign in with your Microsoft account.
3. Create a Key: You’ll find options to create a new key under “My Keys.” You’ll need to decide on the appropriate key type for your application (e.g., Free Trial or a specific license).

Recommendation for Maps: Given the deprecation of Bing Maps for Enterprise, it’s highly recommended to start with Azure Maps for new map-related projects. You can get an Azure Maps key through the Azure portal in a similar way to the Bing Search APIs.¹⁰

Key Considerations for all Bing API Keys:

• Security: Always keep your API keys secure. Do not embed them directly in client-side code where they could be exposed. Use server-side proxies or environment variables.
• Usage Limits: Most APIs have usage limits (free tiers often have lower limits).¹¹ Be mindful of these to avoid unexpected charges or service interruptions.
• Documentation: Always refer to the official Microsoft documentation for the most up-to-date information on API keys, usage, and any changes to the services.

I hope this clarifies where to find the Bing API keys you might need! Remember to check the deprecation notices, especially for Search and Maps APIs, and plan accordingly with Azure’s offerings.

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