> For clean Markdown of any page, append .md to the page URL.
> For a complete documentation index, see https://docs.getdial.ai/llms.txt.
> For AI client integration (Claude Code, Cursor, etc.), connect to the MCP server at https://docs.getdial.ai/_mcp/server.

# Quickstart

> Install the Dial CLI, create an account, and send your first SMS in a few minutes.

Get from zero to a sent SMS using the Dial CLI. The CLI is the fastest path and the one most agents use.

### Install the CLI

```bash
npm install -g @getdial/cli
```

Requires Node 22 or newer. Confirm it's on your path:

```bash
dial --version
```

### Request a sign-up code

```bash
dial auth login you@example.com
```

Dial emails you a 6-digit code and remembers the pending sign-up locally.

### Verify your email

```bash
dial auth verify-otp --code 123456
```

If you already have an account, this signs you in and you're done — skip to *Confirm your setup*. For a new account, Dial confirms your email and asks for a phone number next.

### Register your phone number

```bash
dial auth register-number +14155550123
```

Registering an account requires a verified phone number. Dial texts a 6-digit code to that number. Use a number that can receive SMS and that you keep.

### Verify your phone number

```bash
dial auth verify-otp --number --code 123456
```

This creates your account, **saves your API key locally**, and provisions your first phone number.

### Confirm your setup

```bash
dial doctor
```

`doctor` reports your account, saved key, and number — and tells you what to do next if anything is missing.

### Send your first SMS

```bash
dial message --to +14155550123 --body "Hello from Dial"
```

Dial sends from your onboarded number. Add `--from-number-id <id>` to choose a specific number.

## What's next

#### [Using Dial from an agent](/documentation/get-started/using-dial-from-an-agent)

Wire the CLI or an SDK into your agent.

#### [Place a voice call](/documentation/capabilities/place-a-voice-call)

Make an AI voice call.

#### [Receive an SMS](/documentation/capabilities/receive-an-sms)

Capture a one-time code.

#### [Authentication](/documentation/get-started/authentication)

API keys and base URL.

#### [MCP](/integrations/tools/mcp)

Skip the install — connect an MCP client over OAuth, or run `dial mcp` locally.