diff --git a/AGENTS.md b/AGENTS.md
index 60402b21aec..6f97f3170d9 100644
--- a/AGENTS.md
+++ b/AGENTS.md
@@ -9,6 +9,7 @@ Telegraph style. Root rules only. Read scoped `AGENTS.md` before subtree work.
 - Run docs list first: `pnpm docs:list` if available; read relevant docs only.
 - High-confidence answers only when fixing/triaging: verify source, tests, shipped/current behavior, and dependency contracts before deciding.
 - Dependency-backed behavior: read upstream dependency docs/source/types first. Do not assume APIs, defaults, errors, timing, or runtime behavior.
+- Live-verify when feasible. Check env/`~/.profile` for keys before assuming live tests are blocked; keep secret output redacted.
 - Missing deps: `pnpm install`, retry once, then report first actionable error.
 - CODEOWNERS: maint/refactor/tests ok. Larger behavior/product/security/ownership: owner ask/review.
 - Wording: product/docs/UI/changelog say "plugin/plugins"; `extensions/` is internal.