OpenClaw Registration Guide: How to Sign Up and Get Your API Key

OpenClaw is a powerful API service tool that has attracted increasing attention from developers. This tutorial walks you through the entire process—from account registration to API key configuration—so you can start using OpenClaw features right away.

Registering an OpenClaw Account

Go to the OpenClaw official website and click the "Register" button in the top-right corner. You will need to provide a valid email address and set a login password. For better security, use a mix of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, and numbers. After completing email verification, the system will guide you to the console home page, and your account will be successfully created.

If the CAPTCHA fails to load during registration, try switching browsers or clearing your cache. Users in certain regions may need a stable network connection to complete the registration process.

Obtaining and Managing Your API Key

After logging into the console, find the "API Keys" or "Key Management" option in the left navigation bar. Click "Create New Key," and the system will generate a unique API key string. Make sure to copy and save it immediately—once you close the page, the key cannot be viewed again and can only be regenerated.

It is recommended to create separate keys for each project or use case. This way, if something goes wrong, you can disable only that specific key without affecting other services. In the key list, you can view the creation time, call count, and current status at any time, and you can enable, disable, or delete keys as needed.

Configuring Your Development Environment and Basic Calls

Once you have your API key, you can configure the request headers in your code. For example, in Python, add the Authorization: Bearer your-key field to the request library, and set the API endpoint to the base URL provided in the official documentation. Note that some features may require additional parameters in the request body—always check the specific API endpoint documentation.

For your first call, use the official test endpoint. A successful response code indicates proper configuration. If you encounter a 401 error, check whether the key is correct or has been disabled. A 429 error means you have exceeded the rate limit—reduce your call frequency or apply for a higher quota.

Common Issues and Solutions

Many users see a "No Access" prompt when linking accounts. This usually means you haven't completed identity verification or activated the corresponding service in the console. Go to "Account Settings" to check your current plan and permissions. Some free plans have a cap on API calls—once exceeded, you'll need to upgrade to continue using the service.

If your saved keys stop working after switching accounts, check whether you logged into a different OpenClaw sub-account. It's best to manage all keys from the main account and rotate them periodically for better security. Following the official documentation step by step will resolve most issues.