github-actionsgithub-actions-runners

How I can get a github actions runner token

I want to create a VM and setup as self-hosted runner during my workflow. Right now, what blocks me is the lack of API that gives me Runner Token. If this exists, I could create the instance and register it as a runner, being able to use it in the next job.

Does anyone now a workaround to get the runner token?

Solution

  • Late Update

    Looks like they have finally created the runner api. See the API specs here.

    [POST] /repos/{owner}/{repo}/actions/runners/registration-token

    They now also have example snippets on how to do this. See the other answer posted here for a complete example.

    Previous Answer

    For now you have to create instances manually using the guide found here.

    According to a github staff, there is a plan to eventually add an api for generating the runner tokens, but didn't disclose a timeline of when this could happen.

    An API for this is on the roadmap. I don't have a timeline to share at the moment. But we'll be posting to the Changelog when this is available.

    And to clear up some of the confusion around PATs/runner tokens. The runner token provided via the UI is a temporary token that expires after 60 minutes. It only has the ability to register runners.

    PATs are not able to register runners.