Authentication
==============

The API does not require authentication for all methods. However, in order to access private features of the API, it is necessary to supply an API key in the request header. To request an API key, please email `carriage.enquiries@bbc.co.uk <mailto:carriage.enquiries@bbc.co.uk>`_.

The HTTP header you will need to set is ``Authorization: ClientIdentifier API_KEY``. You should only pass this over ``HTTPS``. Sending an API key over ``HTTP`` will result in a ``400 Bad Request`` response.

cURL example:

.. code-block:: bash

    $ curl -sv -H 'Authorization: ClientIdentifier xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx' https://radiospi.api.bbci.co.uk/radiodns/spi/3.1/SI.xml