Cursor CLI supports two authentication methods: browser-based login (recommended) and API keys. Use the browser flow for the easiest authentication experience: 
# Log in using browser flow
cursor-agent login

# Check authentication status
cursor-agent status

# Log out and clear stored authentication
cursor-agent logout
The login command will open your default browser and prompt you to authenticate with your Cursor account. Once completed, your credentials are securely stored locally.

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API key authentication

For automation, scripts, or CI/CD environments, use API key authentication:

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Step 1: Generate an API key

Generate an API key in your Cursor dashboard.

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Step 2: Set the API key

You can provide the API key in two ways: Option 1: Environment variable (recommended) 
export CURSOR_API_KEY=your_api_key_here
cursor-agent "implement user authentication"
Option 2: Command line flag 
cursor-agent --api-key your_api_key_here "implement user authentication"

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Authentication status

Check your current authentication status: 
cursor-agent status
This command will display:
  • Whether you’re authenticated
  • Your account information
  • Current endpoint configuration

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Troubleshooting

  • “Not authenticated” errors: Run cursor-agent login or ensure your API key is correctly set
  • SSL certificate errors: Use the --insecure flag for development environments
  • Endpoint issues: Use the --endpoint flag to specify a custom API endpoint