diff --git a/.env.testing b/.env.testing
index 63209d91b..015cdd86a 100644
--- a/.env.testing
+++ b/.env.testing
@@ -40,6 +40,7 @@ MAIL_PASSWORD=null
 MAIL_ENCRYPTION=null
 MAIL_FROM_ADDRESS="pixelfed@example.com"
 MAIL_FROM_NAME="Pixelfed"
+MAIL_AUTO_TLS=true  # STARTTLS (false to bypass)
 
 OPEN_REGISTRATION=true
 ENFORCE_EMAIL_VERIFICATION=false