Google Maps Platform free usage

Google Maps Platform provides map, routing and places APIs. Each product gets free calls every month, with 10K free calls per SKU on the Essentials tier.

GoogleUpdated monthly · checked 22 h ago

Google Maps Platform free usage is a developer tools perk from Google, free (10K calls per SKU a month), with no funding required.

Value: Free
Who qualifies: No funding needed
Benefit type: Free plan
Terms: Verified

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While you apply

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What you get

Inside Google Maps Platform free usage

Google Maps Platform gives 10K free calls per SKU each month on its Essentials tier, 5K on Pro and 1K on Enterprise.
A call is an API request or a load event of a map or panorama, and user interactions such as zooming or panning are not charged.
The first paid option is the Starter subscription at $100 a month.
New customers also get a $300 trial credit.

Source: The provider's official program page

Eligibility

Who it's for

Free plan Any startup

Funding / backing: No funding needed
Geography: Global
Recurring / expiry: Free calls renew every month with no end date.
Other requirements: Free calls are counted per SKU. The $300 trial credit is separate from the free calls.

How to claim

How to apply for Google Maps Platform free usage

Steps to apply

1Click Get started on the pricing page, choose Maps, Routes or Places, and get an API key.

Good to know: Plans read on mapsplatform.google.com/pricing on October 28, 2026.

Apply at Google

Source: The provider's official program page

Value is the headline maximum Google advertises. What your company actually receives depends on your eligibility and how you use the program, and terms can change. A comparison, not endorsed by the programs listed. A link labeled as a referral link may earn us a commission, and a program labeled Same owner comes from the company that runs StartupPerks. Confirm current terms on the provider's page.

Questions

Google Maps Platform free usage: common questions

Is Google free?

Yes, Google can be used for free. Free (10K calls per SKU a month). As stated on Google's own page, linked on this page.

Who qualifies for Google Maps Platform free usage?

Google Maps Platform free usage is open to any startup, with no funding required. Free calls are counted per SKU. The $300 trial credit is separate from the free calls.

Do I need to be VC-backed or in an accelerator to get Google Maps Platform free usage?

No. Google Maps Platform free usage is open to any startup that meets the stated criteria, no investor or accelerator backing required.

How do I apply for Google Maps Platform free usage?

Click Get started on the pricing page, choose Maps, Routes or Places, and get an API key.

How long do I have to use Google Maps Platform free usage, and does it expire?

Free calls renew every month with no end date.

Is Google Maps Platform free usage available outside the US?

Google Maps Platform free usage is available globally, subject to the provider's terms.

Complete guideGemini API Credits for Startups: Every Route in 2026How startups get Gemini API credits in 2026: the free tier, why Google's $300 trial stopped covering Gemini, the $350K startup program and its prepay catch.Free maps APIs, comparedGoogle Maps Platform's free tier next to every other free maps APIWhat each maps API gives you free today, its main limit and what paid usage costs, read from each provider's own page.