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OpenAI API Key (BYOK) Issues with GPT-5 Model

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Problem Description

Some users encounter errors when attempting to use their own OpenAI API key to access GPT-5 models in Zencoder. While the key configuration in Zencoder is straightforward, the issue typically stems from OpenAI’s access and verification requirements rather than any problem with Zencoder itself.
GPT-5 models might require specific tier access and organization verification from OpenAI. This is not a Zencoder limitation but an OpenAI requirement.

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Common Error Symptoms

  • Server errors when selecting GPT-5 models with your own API key
  • Successful connection but inability to use GPT-5 specifically

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Understanding the Issue

OpenAI might restrict access to GPT-5 models based on:
  1. Usage Tier, meaning that your organization must be on a qualifying tier (Tiers 1-5)
  2. Organization Verification, requiring your organization to complete OpenAI’s verification process
  3. API Credits issues where insufficient credits might cause problems, so ensure that you have sufficient API credits or billing setup
According to OpenAI’s official documentation, GPT-5 access is available to users on tiers 1 through 5, with some requiring organization verification.

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How to Configure Your OpenAI Key in Zencoder

If your organization has the proper access, here’s how to use your OpenAI API key in Zencoder:
  1. Click on the Zencoder three-dot menu (⋮) in your IDE
  2. Select User API Keys
  3. Paste your OpenAI API key
  4. Enable the key by toggling it on
  5. Select the GPT-5 model from the model selector
The key configuration steps above will only work if your OpenAI organization has the required access level or has been verified for GPT-5.

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Solution: Verify Your OpenAI Account

To resolve GPT-5 access issues, you need to ensure your OpenAI organization meets the requirements:

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Step 1: Check Your Current Tier

  1. Go to the OpenAI Developer Console
  2. Navigate to your organization settings
  3. Check your current usage tier

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Step 2: Complete Organization Verification

OpenAI requires some organizations to complete their verification process:
  1. Visit the API Organization Verification page for detailed instructions
  2. Go to your OpenAI Platform Settings
  3. Look for verification requirements or prompts
  4. Complete the verification process by providing:
    • Organization or personal details
    • Business information (if applicable)
    • Required documentation
For comprehensive information about OpenAI’s requirements and processes, refer to:

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Important Notes

  • Zencoder cannot assist with OpenAI verification as this process is entirely managed by OpenAI
  • Verification can take time - OpenAI’s review process may take several business days, though we’ve observed automated verifications that happen momentarily
  • Alternative models might be available based on your plan - while waiting for GPT-5 access, consider using other models like Anthropic’s models

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Still Having Issues?

If you’ve completed OpenAI verification and still experience issues:
  1. Verify your API key is correctly copied (no extra spaces)
  2. Check that your key has not expired or been revoked
  3. Ensure your OpenAI account has sufficient credits
  4. Try regenerating your API key in the OpenAI dashboard
For issues specific to Zencoder’s implementation (not OpenAI access), please contact Zencoder support with your debug information.