Could you please edit your answer to include this important fact.

So you have to install docker-machine in order to create VM and attach to it.

It clearly outlines a) why it doesnt work, b) instructions to get it working without downloading the UI on OSX and c) reference links for further reading.

Make sure VirtualBox is installed and VBoxManage is in the path.

As long as I work in this instance of the Terminal app Docker works perfectly.

If a second window is needed I have to run the Quickstart app once more.

Therefore I am not sure if my solution is valid for a Homebrew installation.

I needed to unset some legacy environment variable (thanks ).

Instead youll likely want to install Docker Desktop or, if already installed, make sure its up-to-date and running, then attempt to connect to the socket again.

No need to install all the other docker nonsense these days IMO.

The VM and install script that comes with minikube can replace docker machine from my experience.

I had to install dockers official install from and then everything worked as expected.

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Troubleshooting Docker For Mac Install