> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.ravn.exchange/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Authentication

> API keys, fees, and rate limits.

<Note>
  **During beta, the API is open** — no key required. You can start testing immediately.
  The details below describe how authentication works once keys are issued.
</Note>

Authenticate every request with your API key in the `x-api-key` header:

```
x-api-key: rvn_live_your_key_here
```

* Keys are issued by RAVN. Each key carries your **fee rate** and your **rate limit** (requests/minute).
* Missing or invalid key → `401 UNAUTHORIZED`. Over your limit → `429 RATE_LIMITED` (with a `retryAfterSec` in `details`).
* `GET /health` is always public; all other endpoints require a key once auth is enabled.

## Requesting access

Want a key or a custom fee arrangement? Reach out via [ravn.exchange](https://ravn.exchange).
Enterprise partners can negotiate a flat per-partner rate that overrides the default
route-based pricing.