> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.dotlookup.dev/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Authentication

> How to authenticate requests to the DotLookup API

# Authentication

Most endpoints work **without authentication**. To get higher rate limits, include your API key in the `X-API-Key` header.

```bash theme={null}
curl https://api.dotlookup.dev/v1/carriers/12345 \
  -H "X-API-Key: your_api_key_here"
```

<Note>
  The `POST /v1/carriers/bulk` endpoint **requires** an API key. All other endpoints are accessible without one.
</Note>

## Getting an API Key

Sign up from the [DotLookup Dashboard](https://dotlookup.dev/login) or via the API:

```bash theme={null}
curl -X POST https://api.dotlookup.dev/v1/auth/signup \
  -H "Content-Type: application/json" \
  -d '{"email": "you@example.com", "name": "Your Name", "company": "Your Co"}'
```

The response includes your `api_key`. Store it securely — it won't be shown again.

## Checking Your Account

Use the `/v1/auth/me` endpoint to view your account details and usage:

```bash theme={null}
curl https://api.dotlookup.dev/v1/auth/me \
  -H "X-API-Key: your_api_key_here"
```

See the [Account endpoint reference](/endpoints/account) for the full response shape.