PostgreSQL raises external_routine_exception (SQLSTATE 38000) when a call to an external routine fails at runtime, halting the current transaction.
external_routine_exception occurs when PostgreSQL cannot run an external routine, such as a C-language function. Recompile or reinstall the shared library, correct the function signature, and grant EXECUTE privileges to resolve the error.
external_routine_exception
external_routine_exception (SQLSTATE 38000) is thrown when PostgreSQL calls an external routine and that routine fails to load, crashes, or returns an unexpected status.
The server immediately aborts the current transaction to protect data integrity.
Any uncommitted changes roll back, so quick remediation is essential.
Missing or outdated shared libraries trigger the error because the backend loader cannot locate required symbols during function invocation.
Unhandled exceptions inside C, Java, or PL languages bubble up to the server, which converts the fault into SQLSTATE 38000.
Inspect the PostgreSQL log.
The line after the error usually names the missing file or reports a signal such as segmentation fault, guiding the next step.
Recompile the extension against the server version, reinstall the library in the correct path, or adjust the CREATE FUNCTION signature.
Then test the call in a new session.
After an in-place PostgreSQL upgrade, previously compiled C extensions often mismatch the new server binary, producing external_routine_exception until they are rebuilt.
A PL/pgSQL wrapper that divides by zero in its C helper can raise the error only on certain data, making load tests vital for catching edge cases.
Version-pin and rebuild all external extensions during every server upgrade.
Automate the step in CI pipelines to prevent surprise runtime failures.
Wrap calls to external routines with EXCEPTION blocks so client code can degrade gracefully. Galaxy’s AI copilot can suggest robust wrappers while you type.
external_routine_invocation_exception (SQLSTATE 38001) appears when the routine executes disallowed SQL. Revoke or adjust privileges to fix.
undefined_function (SQLSTATE 42883) differs by indicating the routine cannot be found at all, not that it exists and failed at runtime.
.
The .so or DLL specified in CREATE FUNCTION was moved or deleted, so the dynamic loader fails.
The shared object was compiled for another PostgreSQL version or different architecture, causing symbol resolution errors.
The database process lacks read or execute rights on the directory or file that hosts the shared library.
Segmentation faults, divide-by-zero errors, or uncaught exceptions within the external code surface as SQLSTATE 38000.
.
Yes. PostgreSQL aborts the current transaction, but the server process remains alive. Re-running the query after fixing the routine is safe.
Pure PL/pgSQL rarely does. The error surfaces when PL/pgSQL calls an external language routine that fails.
Yes. Most drivers expose the SQLSTATE, allowing you to retry or alert operators programmatically.
Galaxy versions all function DDL, highlights missing libraries during review, and its AI copilot suggests safe wrappers, reducing the chance of runtime failures.
.avif)
.avif){kind=logo}
