GOOGLE_MAPS_GUIDE.md

How to Get a Google Maps API Key (Free Tier)

Google Maps Platform is a paid service, but they give you $200 free credit every month. Use this guide to set it up.

1. Is it free?

• Yes, for most small apps.
• $200 credit = ~28,000 map loads per month.
• You must add a Credit Card to verify, but you won't be charged unless you exceed the free limit.

2. How to get the Key

1. Go to Google Cloud Console.
2. Create a New Project (e.g., "Tracking App").
3. Go to "APIs & Services" > "Library".
4. Search for and Enable these APIs:
   • Maps JavaScript API (for the web map)
   • Directions API (for drawing routes)
   • Distance Matrix API (for calculating time)
5. Go to "Credentials" and click "Create Credentials" > "API Key".
6. Copy the Key (starts with AIza...).

3. Alternative (100% Free, No Card)

If you don't want to put in a credit card, we can use OpenStreetMap (Leaflet) instead.

• Pros: Totally free, no limit.
• Cons: Not as pretty, no "Google Traffic" data, calculating routes is harder.

Recommendation: Use Google Maps for the "Premium" feel you wanted.