Get started with MapTiler
Welcome to the MapTiler newbie kit! If you’re new to our products or even digital maps in general, you’re in the right place. We’ll help you understand the basics and take the first steps, no prior knowledge required.
Step 1: Create a MapTiler account
Workflows described in this documentation generally require you to be logged in to a MapTiler account. Creating one is fast, free, and with no obligations. 👉 Create a MapTiler account (If the link takes you directly to the Maps page, you’re already logged in.)
Step 2: Get your API key
An API key is needed to use, test, and play around with our maps and services. Once you have a MapTiler account, go to page API keys and copy your default key to have it handy. Remember, this key is for testing only! 👉 Learn how to use and protect your API key
Step 3: Learn how maps work (optional)
If you’re completely new to digital maps, it’s useful to know how they work before you start creating or implementing them. Learning the key concepts and terminology will help you jump in confidently, avoid confusion, and get to the advanced stuff faster. 👉 Learn how maps work
Step 4: Select your workflow
Let’s get to real work. Specific steps depend on what exactly you need, so check the general scenarios below and pick one that fits best.
🗺️ Get a map with your data in it
To build a map showing whatever you want to share with the world, follow these general steps:
- Select and use a ready-made map. Optionally, you can customize the map design to make it your own.
- Add your data to the map.
- Build an application using your map.
📌 Use search & location services
Our geolocation services can be used with or without a map. Here’s what you can do with them:
- Search for places by their name or coordinates (geocoding)
- Locate users by their IP address (IP geolocation)
- Convert coordinates from one system to another
🔒 Work on-prem/offline
For complete control and secure access to your maps and data, check out our on-prem products. You can:
- Self-host your maps with MapTiler Server
- Process large data on-prem with MapTiler Engine
More resources & help
Since you’re here, we assume you’re fine with reading, but if you also like video tutorials, check out our YouTube channel. If all else fails and you get stuck, our support will do their best to help. Happy mapping!