How to Download Zoom Recording via API Without Re-Entering Passcode (Same Account)

API and Webhooks Authentication
1

API Endpoint(s) and/or Zoom API Event(s)

  • GET /v2/meetings/{meetingId}/recordings

  • Direct recording download_url returned from the above endpoint

Description

I’m trying to automate the download of Zoom meeting recordings using the Zoom API. These recordings are passcode-protected, but I’m authenticated via OAuth as the same Zoom account that owns the meeting and its recordings.

What I want to do is:

  • Retrieve the recordings for a meeting.

  • Download the .mp4 (or other media files) without having to enter the passcode manually.

  • Ideally, bypass or programmatically provide the passcode one time, or use the OAuth token to skip the passcode altogether — since I’m already authenticated as the owner.

Error?

No specific error message. The problem is:

  • When trying to access the download_url directly, it prompts for the recording passcode (even though I’m authenticated).

  • I want to understand how to structure the request (with OAuth token or passcode) so I don’t get this prompt.

How To Reproduce

  1. Request URL:
    GET https://api.zoom.us/v2/meetings/{meetingId}/recordings
    Headers:
    Authorization: Bearer {OAuth_Access_Token}

  2. Authentication Method / App Type:

    • OAuth app

    • Authenticated as the account owner (who created the meeting & recording)

  3. Issue:

    • The API returns a valid download_url (e.g., Download Center for Zoom Apps and Plugins | Zoom ...)

    • When accessed via browser or script, it prompts for the recording passcode.

    • Even if I append the access_token like ?access_token=xxx, the passcode is still required.

My Questions:

  • Can I bypass the passcode requirement when authenticated via OAuth (same account)?

  • Is there a way to pass the passcode in the API or header just once to retrieve the file?

  • What’s the recommended method for securely downloading recordings programmatically when I own them?

Thanks in advance for your help!