aws-vault-mfa-iam

Provision MFA-protected AWS CLI sessions using aws-vault.

320|3|Updated Apr 24, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/mizchi/skills --skill aws-vault-mfa-iam
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: aws-vault-mfa-iam
Source: https://github.com/mizchi/skills/tree/main/aws/vault-mfa-iam
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/mizchi/skills --skill aws-vault-mfa-iam

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Resolve MFA-required IAM access errors by routing through aws-vault to establish MFA-protected sessions for AWS CLI/SDK usage.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Enable MFA-protected AWS CLI sessions using aws-vault to satisfy policy MFA requirements.
  • Configure a virtual MFA device and add mfa_serial to the AWS config to automate MFA prompts.
  • Use aws-vault exec to execute IAM/API operations within an MFA-enabled session, avoiding InvalidClientTokenId errors.

Quick Start

Register a virtual MFA device for your AWS user, add mfa_serial to your ~/.aws/config, and run aws-vault exec <profile> -- <aws-command> to complete an MFA-enabled session.

Frequently Asked Questions about aws-vault-mfa-iam

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I use aws-vault to satisfy AWS IAM MFA requirements for CLI access?▼

Use aws-vault exec to run AWS CLI commands within an MFA-protected session. By configuring a virtual MFA device and adding mfa_serial to your AWS config, aws-vault automatically handles MFA authentication for IAM API calls.

Why does my AWS CLI return InvalidClientTokenId errors when MFA is required?▼

InvalidClientTokenId errors occur when IAM policies require MFA but the CLI session lacks it. Routing commands through aws-vault exec establishes an MFA-enabled session, resolving the authentication failure and allowing IAM operations.

What do I need to configure before setting up MFA-backed AWS access with aws-vault?▼

You need a registered virtual MFA device for your AWS IAM user and an updated ~/.aws/config file containing the mfa_serial value. aws-vault then uses this configuration to prompt for and manage your MFA-backed sessions.

What's the best way to automate MFA prompts for AWS CLI commands?▼

Add the mfa_serial parameter to your AWS config profile and execute commands using aws-vault exec. This setup provisions MFA-protected sessions automatically, preventing manual MFA code entry on every individual AWS API call.

Can I use aws-vault for IAM actions when my AWS policy enforces MFA?▼

Yes, aws-vault exec routes IAM API calls through an MFA-authenticated session. This satisfies AWS policies that enforce MFA for iam:* actions, ensuring your CLI operations comply with security requirements without failing.

How does aws-vault handle MFA-protected sessions for AWS SDK usage?▼

aws-vault resolves MFA-required IAM access by provisioning secure sessions for both AWS CLI and SDK usage. It leverages the mfa_serial configuration to authenticate via your virtual MFA device and establish valid temporary credentials.