M
API Matrix

CARTO API

Open Data / API Key Intermediate HTTPS
Varies by plan (check documentation)
72 Score
Grade B
Visit Official Site Compare Alternatives

Overview

CARTO is a geospatial platform API that provides location intelligence and data analysis tools for mapping and prediction. You authenticate with an API key to access datasets, create maps, and run spatial SQL queries. It is well-suited for building data-driven location apps and visualizations.

💡

Beginner Tip

Start with the CARTO SQL API to query your uploaded datasets using standard SQL with a simple GET or POST request. Make sure your dataset is set to public or pass your API key correctly.

Available Data

vehicle make and model
year and specifications
fuel economy
VIN decode data
prediction result with confidence score
input name or text

Example Response

JSON Response 
{
  "make": "Toyota",
  "model": "Camry",
  "year": 2025,
  "engine": "2.5L 4-cylinder",
  "fuel_economy": {
    "city_mpg": 28,
    "highway_mpg": 39
  },
  "msrp": 28400
}

Field Reference

rows Array of result objects from the SQL query, one per matching record.
total_rows Total number of rows returned by the query.
time Query execution time in seconds.
fields Metadata describing each field name and its data type.
error List of error messages if the query failed.

Implementation Example 

const url = "https://carto.com/";
// Replace headers or query params with the values required by this API.
const response = await fetch(url, {
  headers: {
  "X-API-Key": "YOUR_API_KEY"
  }
});
if (!response.ok) throw new Error(`Request failed: ${response.status}`);
const data = await response.json();
console.log(data);

What Can You Build?

Note: These code examples are AI-generated and unverified. Always refer to the official API documentation for accurate usage.

Common Errors & Troubleshooting

401 Unauthorized API key is missing or incorrect in the request.
✓ Pass your API key as the api_key query parameter or in the Authorization header as documented.
SQL query error The SQL syntax is incorrect or references a table that does not exist.
✓ Test your query in the CARTO dashboard SQL editor first before using it in the API.
429 Too Many Requests You have exceeded the rate limit for your plan.
✓ Add exponential backoff to your requests and consider upgrading your CARTO plan for higher limits.

Matrix Score Breakdown

🌐 Reachability 30/30
⚡ Speed 5/20
🔒 Security 15/15
🛠 Developer XP 12/20
✓ Reliability 10/15

Partially tested on Apr 5, 2026

Technical Specifications

Auth API Key
HTTPS REQUIRED
CORS UNKNOWN
Category Open Data
Difficulty Intermediate
Verified: 2026-04-04

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