Getting started

Build your first TikTok transcript integration with an account, an API key, and one public video URL. The API creates a background job and returns an ID. You use that ID to retrieve the transcript when processing finishes.

Get your API key

Create an account using your email address and the one-time code sent to your inbox. New verified accounts receive 100 free credits. You do not need to enter a card to try the API.

Open API Keys in your dashboard, enter a recognizable name, and create a key. Copy the complete value immediately; it is shown once. Store it in a server environment variable named TIKTOK_API_KEY. Keep it out of browser code, public repositories, and screenshots.

Request a transcript

Use a TikTok video you own or have permission to process. Replace the example URL below with a real, publicly playable video. The request reserves one credit and transcribes up to 20 minutes.

bash

curl https://tiktoktranscriptapi.com/api/v1/transcriptions \
  -H "Authorization: Bearer $TIKTOK_API_KEY" \
  -H "Content-Type: application/json" \
  -H "Idempotency-Key: my-first-tiktok-request" \
  -d '{"url":"https://www.tiktok.com/@creator/video/VIDEO_ID"}'

The response contains data.id and data.status_url. Save the ID before doing anything else. A successful submission usually returns HTTP 202; this means processing has started, not that the transcript is complete.

Retrieve the result

Wait a few seconds, then replace JOB_ID with your returned ID:

bash

curl https://tiktoktranscriptapi.com/api/v1/transcriptions/JOB_ID \
  -H "Authorization: Bearer $TIKTOK_API_KEY"

Read data.status. While it is processing, wait before checking again. A completed result includes text and timestamped segments. A failed result includes an error and releases the reserved credit. Status checks do not consume credits.

Continue building

The API reference explains every endpoint, response field, limit, and error. Use the integration guides for practical workflow patterns. To connect an AI tool, read MCP integration.

Your requests appear in the dashboard, where you can review account activity and remaining credits. Use the API response to retrieve the completed transcript text and timestamps.