PostgresqlHow-ToBeginner · 3 min read

How to Switch Database in PostgreSQL Quickly and Easily

In PostgreSQL, you cannot switch databases within the same session using a command like USE. Instead, you must connect to the desired database by starting a new session with psql -d database_name or use the \c database_name command inside the psql tool to switch databases.

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Syntax

To switch databases in PostgreSQL, use the following syntax inside the psql command-line interface:

\c database_name - Connects to the specified database.
\c database_name username - Connects to the specified database as the given user.

Alternatively, from outside psql, start a new session with:

psql -d database_name - Connects directly to the specified database.

sql

\c database_name
\c database_name username

psql -d database_name

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Example

This example shows how to switch from the current database to another database named mydb inside the psql tool.

sql

postgres=# \c mydb
You are now connected to database "mydb" as user "postgres".

Output

You are now connected to database "mydb" as user "postgres".

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Common Pitfalls

Unlike some other database systems, PostgreSQL does not support switching databases with a simple USE command inside a session. Trying USE database_name; will cause an error.

Also, you cannot switch databases if you are connected through an application that does not support reconnecting. You must close the current connection and open a new one to the target database.

sql

/* Wrong way - this will cause an error */
USE mydb;

/* Right way inside psql */
\c mydb

Output

ERROR: syntax error at or near "USE" LINE 1: USE mydb;

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Quick Reference

Command	Description
\c database_name	Switch to the specified database inside psql
\c database_name username	Switch to the specified database as a specific user
psql -d database_name	Start a new psql session connected to the specified database

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Key Takeaways

PostgreSQL does not support switching databases with a SQL command like USE.

Use \c database_name inside psql to switch databases in the same session.

Start a new psql session with psql -d database_name to connect directly to another database.

You must reconnect to switch databases in applications that do not support session switching.

Trying to use USE database_name; will cause a syntax error in PostgreSQL.