# Personal Access Tokens

Personal Access Tokens (PATs) provide a secure and straightforward way to authenticate and manage access to your Spice AI account via the API and CLI.

## Creating a Personal Access Token

Personal Access Tokens can be created in [Personal Access Tokens](https://spice.ai/settings/tokens).

1. Click the profile picture on the top right corner of the portal interface.
2. From the dropdown menu, select **Settings**.
3. Select **Personal Access Tokens** in the sidebar.
4. Enter a descriptive **Token Name**.
5. Select an **Expiration**: 24 hours (the default), 7 days, 30 days, or 180 days.
6. Click **Create**, then copy the token and store it in a safe place. You cannot see the token again after you close the dialog.