How to Use CURRENT_USER in PostgreSQL

Galaxy Glossary

How do I use the PostgreSQL CURRENT_USER function?

CURRENT_USER returns the name of the role executing the current SQL statement.

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Description

Example H2

Example H3

How do I get the current database user?

Call CURRENT_USER anywhere in a query to obtain the session’s role name. No arguments are required, and the value is constant for the duration of the statement.

What is the syntax of CURRENT_USER?

Use SELECT CURRENT_USER; in psql or embed the function inside larger queries, joins, or expressions. Alias it when needed for readability.

How can I see who inserted each order?

Create an created_by column and set its default to CURRENT_USER. Every new row then stores the login that executed the INSERT.

Code example

```sqlALTER TABLE Orders ADD COLUMN created_by text DEFAULT CURRENT_USER;```

Can I combine CURRENT_USER with other columns?

Yes. Mix it with regular columns to record both business and audit data in the same statement.

Auditing insert

```sqlINSERT INTO Orders (id, customer_id, order_date, total_amount, created_by)SELECT o.id, o.customer_id, NOW(), 99.95, CURRENT_USERFROM temp_new_orders o;```

Best practices for CURRENT_USER

Store the value in lowercase for consistent joins. Always grant roles instead of individual users so audit data remains stable after staff changes.

Common mistakes

Mixing CURRENT_USER with SET ROLE. After SET ROLE, CURRENT_USER keeps the original login role; use SESSION_USER if you need the pre-SET ROLE name.

Using CURRENT_USER in PL/pgSQL triggers without qualification. Inside a security-definer function, CURRENT_USER returns the definer, not the caller. Use current_setting('role') or SESSION_USER if you need the invoker.

Why How to Use CURRENT_USER in PostgreSQL is important

How to Use CURRENT_USER in PostgreSQL Example Usage


-- Show each order alongside the user who inserted it
SELECT id,
       customer_id,
       order_date,
       total_amount,
       created_by AS inserted_by
FROM   Orders
WHERE  created_by = CURRENT_USER;

How to Use CURRENT_USER in PostgreSQL Syntax


SELECT CURRENT_USER;
-- Alias for clarity
SELECT CURRENT_USER AS executing_user;

-- Use in a column list
INSERT INTO Orders (id, customer_id, order_date, total_amount, created_by)
VALUES (1, 10, NOW(), 59.99, CURRENT_USER);

-- Default value on a table
ALTER TABLE Orders
ADD COLUMN created_by text DEFAULT CURRENT_USER;

Common Mistakes

Calling CURRENT_USER after SET ROLE and expecting the new role. CURRENT_USER stays the same; use role variables or SESSION_USER to get the changed role.
Using CURRENT_USER in security-definer functions and assuming it shows the invoker. It always returns the function owner; prefer current_setting('role') in such cases.