Renaming a Role (User)

Renaming a PostgreSQL Role Inside a Docker Container: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Connect to the PostgreSQL Server

To start, connect to the PostgreSQL server within the Docker container by running the following command:

docker exec -it <POSTGRESQL_CONTAINER_NAME> psql -U <POSTGRESQL_USERNAME>

Step 2: Switch to a Different Role

⛔️ When you connect to the PostgreSQL server, you’re likely accessing the database with the user you want to rename. However, PostgreSQL doesn’t allow renaming a user while you’re connected to it.

✅ The Fix: Create and Connect with a Different Role

To proceed, enter the following command:

CREATE ROLE <NEW_USER> SUPERUSER LOGIN PASSWORD '<USER_PASSWORD>';

Disconnect from the server with the \q command then reconnect with the <NEW_USER> created:

docker exec -it <POSTGRESQL_CONTAINER_NAME> psql -U <NEW_USERNAME>

Step 3: Rename the Role

Now you can rename your role using the ALTER USER...RENAME TO command:

ALTER USER <OLD_USER_NAME> RENAME TO <NEW_USER_NAME>;

Happy me! 🌱