How do I get started?

To get started with the API you require a Betfair account, an Application Key (App Key) and a valid session token.

You can open a Betfair account via Betfair registration 

What is an Application Key?

An Application Key is required to make requests to the Exchange API and must be included in a 'X-Application' HTTP header for all API requests.

Betfair use the Application Key to identify all requests that are made to the Exchange API. 

X-Application: APP_KEY_ASSIGNED

You can create an Application Key by using the createDeveloperAppKeys service via the Accounts API Demo Tool. 

Please follow the instructions below:

1. Click on the Accounts API Demo Tool link.
2. Select the createDeveloperAppKeys operation from the list of Operations on the top left hand side of the visualiser.
3. Login to www.betfair.com via a separate browser tab and refresh the page to automatically input the Session Token field into the Session Token(ssoid) field.
4. Enter your Application Name (this must be unique) in the 'Request' column.  The Application Name can be any name of your choice, but like your Betfair username, must be unique.
5. Press Execute at the bottom of the 'Request' column.

Two Application Keys will then be created and displayed in the Developer Apps column of the demo tool, a Delayed App Key (Active) and a Live App Key (Inactive)

Please note:

• The X-Application header is not required when using the createDeveloperAppKeys or the getDeveloperAppKeys service.
• The Application Name must be unique.

Please see our Getting Started guide for further information of how to start making requests to the API

How do I apply for a Live Application key?

To apply for a Live Application key please take note of the below and provide answers to the following information:

Before applying, please:

• Complete any testing using your Delayed Application key.
• Ensure that your account has been fully verified in line with our KYC policy.  Please note:  We do not accept license applications from Bangledesh, Sri Lanka or the UAE.
• Check that your account is funded to cover the £299 activation fee.  

Please note: A one-off activation fee of £299 applies; this is debited directly from your Betfair account once access is approved.  

To apply for a Live Application key for personal betting use please click here and select Exchange API > For My Personal Betting and complete the application form at the bottom of the page.