How to Check Laravel Version? Artisan, Composer & Source Code Methods

Chinmay Pandya
Chinmay Pandya
how to check laravel version

Trying to verify compatibility, apply security patches, or follow version-specific documentation? Then you need to know your Laravel version as the process may differ based on it. Different versions come with different features and capabilities.

This guide walks you through the quickest and most reliable ways to check your Laravel version. You can use Artisan commands, Composer, Source Code, and more. Let’s begin.

How to Check the Laravel Version? (Using Artisan Commands)

If you’re working on a Laravel website, first and foremost, you need to verify their framework version. Then you can go about debugging, ensuring packaging compatibility, or confirming security updates.

The quickest and most reliable way to find this information is by using Laravel’s built-in Artisan command-line tool. The two key commands to follow are –version flag and about.

Method 1: Using the –version Flag

The fastest way to check your Laravel version is by running this command. Here’s how you proceed with it.

Step 1: Open Terminal or Command Prompt.

You can locate it based on your operating system. On Windows, this might be Command Prompt or PowerShell. On macOS or Linux, it’s typically the Terminal application.

Step 2: Navigate to Laravel Project Directory.

You can use the cd command within your terminal to navigate to the root directory of your Laravel project. This directory contains the artisan executable file to use.

cd /path/to/your/laravel/project

Replace /path/to/your/laravel/project with the actual location of your project directory on your system.

Step 3: Run the php artisan –version Command.

Once you’re within your project’s root directory, type the following command and press ‘Enter’:

php artisan --version

This command will display the current Laravel version of your project on the next line.

Example Output

Laravel Framework 11.x (whichever your specific version is)

Method 2: Using the about Command

As compared to the previous method, this about method offers a more detailed view of the Laravel version and setup. Here’s how you proceed.

Step 1: Open Terminal or Command Prompt.

You can locate it based on your operating system. On Windows, this might be Command Prompt or PowerShell. On macOS or Linux, it’s typically the Terminal application.

Step 2: Navigate to Laravel Project Directory.

You can use the cd command within your terminal to navigate to the root directory of your Laravel project. This directory contains the artisan executable file to use.

cd /path/to/your/laravel/project

Replace /path/to/your/laravel/project with the actual location of your project directory on your system.

Step 3: Run the php artisan about Command.

Once you’re within your project’s root directory, type the following command and press ‘Enter’:

php artisan about

This command will display a complete overview of your Laravel installation on the next lines.

Example Output

Laravel Framework 11.x.x (whatever your specific version is)
Framework Version: 8.53.22
PHP Version: 8.1.13 (cli)
Environment: local
Server: localhost
Port: 8000
HTTP Host: localhost
HTTPS: off
Debug Mode: true

Both commands are reliable, so choose based on whether you need a simple version check or a full environment overview.

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How to Check the Laravel Version Using Composer?

There’s a chance you don’t have direct access to Artisan commands (like in production environments). Or you may need to verify the installed Laravel version from outside the application. Then Composer offers a reliable alternative.

Step 1: Locate the Files.

Navigate to your Laravel project’s root directory. The key files are:

  • composer.json → Lists required packages and version constraints.
  • composer.lock → Records the exact installed versions.

Step 2: Open composer.json.

In the require or require-dev section, look for “laravel/framework”:

"require": {
    "laravel/framework": "^10.10",
    // Other dependencies...
}

This shows the allowed version range (e.g., ^10.10 means 10.10.0 or higher, below 11.0.0), not the exact installed version.

Step 3: Check composer.lock for the Exact Version.

For the precise version, open composer.lock and search for “laravel/framework”:

"packages": [
    {
        "name": "laravel/framework",
        "version": "10.10.0",
        // Other metadata...
    }
]

Here’s why this works. composer.lock is generated after running composer install and pins the exact versions of all dependencies.

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How to Check the Laravel Version? (Using Source Code)

Sometimes you need to verify your Laravel version directly from your application code. It can help you with debugging, conditional feature implementation, or version-specific fixes.

Here’s how you proceed.

Step 1: Navigate to the Source Code

Open your Laravel project in your preferred Integrated Development Environment or code editor. The version information is stored in the framework’s core files, which are located in:

vendor/laravel/framework/src/Illuminate/Foundation/

Step 2: Find the Version Constant

Look for the Application.php file in this directory. This is where Laravel maintains its version information as a class constant.

Step 3: Identify the Version

Open Application.php and locate the following near the top of the file:

/**
 * The Laravel framework version.
 *
 * @var string
 */
const VERSION = '10.x.x';

This approach is best suited for advanced scenarios where you need to work with the version information in code.

When to Check the Laravel Version?

Knowing your Laravel version isn’t just a technical detail—it’s crucial for maintaining a secure, stable application. Let’s look at the key situations.

Before Upgrading Packages

Always verify your Laravel version before updating packages. Some dependencies require specific framework versions, and knowing yours prevents compatibility issues.

When Debugging Errors

If you encounter unexpected errors, check your Laravel version first. Some bugs only exist in certain releases, and the fix might depend on upgrading or downgrading.

Implementing New Features

New Laravel versions introduce syntax changes and features. Confirming your version ensures you’re using the correct methods and avoiding deprecated code.

After Server Migration

When moving to a new server, verify that the Laravel version matches your local environment. Mismatched versions can cause deployment failures.

During Security Audits

Security patches are version-specific. Check your Laravel version to confirm if you’re running a vulnerable release that needs updating.

When Reviewing Documentation

Laravel’s documentation varies by version. Checking yours ensures you’re following the right guides and avoiding outdated examples.

Make version checking part of your regular maintenance routine. Consider adding it to your deployment checklist and documentation standards.

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FAQs on Checking Laravel Version

What’s the fastest way to check my Laravel version?

Run php artisan –version in your terminal. It instantly displays your Laravel framework version (e.g., “Laravel Framework 10.x.x”).

Why does composer.json show a different version than composer.lock?

The command composer.json lists version constraints (e.g., ^10.0). And the command composer.lock stores the exact installed version (e.g., 10.10.0). Always check .lock for accuracy.

Does Laravel’s version affect third-party packages?

Yes! Some packages only work with specific Laravel versions. Always check package requirements in their composer.json before installation.

Let’s Summarize

Knowing your Laravel version is essential for maintaining compatibility, security, and smooth development workflows. You can use Artisan commands, Composer files, or direct source code checks. With it, you can verify the framework version in just seconds while saving hours of debugging.

Regularly checking your Laravel version ensures you’re:

  • Using the correct documentation
  • Applying the right security patches
  • Avoiding dependency conflicts

So, want help with your Laravel versions and capabilities? Then connect with our Laravel professionals today!

author
Chinmay Pandya is an accomplished tech enthusiast specializing in PHP, WordPress, and Laravel. With a solid background in web development, he brings expertise in crafting innovative solutions and optimizing performance for various projects.