One-time Usage (uvx)

If you want to try Spec Kit without installing it permanently, use uvx to run it directly. This downloads the tool into a temporary environment that is discarded after the command finishes.

Note

The commands below require uv. If you see command not found: uvx, install uv first.

Run Specify CLI

# Create a new project (latest from main)
uvx --from git+https://github.com/github/spec-kit.git specify init <PROJECT_NAME>

# Or target a specific release (replace vX.Y.Z with a tag from Releases)
uvx --from git+https://github.com/github/spec-kit.git@vX.Y.Z specify init <PROJECT_NAME>

# Initialize in the current directory
uvx --from git+https://github.com/github/spec-kit.git specify init . --integration copilot

# Or use the --here flag
uvx --from git+https://github.com/github/spec-kit.git specify init --here --integration copilot

When to use persistent installation instead

If you plan to use Spec Kit regularly, a persistent installation is recommended:

  • Tool stays installed and available in PATH
  • No re-download on every invocation
  • Better tool management with uv tool list, uv tool upgrade, uv tool uninstall

See the main Installation Guide for persistent installation instructions.

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