Knowing how to check Laravel version is essential when maintaining, upgrading, or debugging an application. Whether you’re working on a legacy system, joining an existing project, or planning a framework upgrade, identifying the exact Laravel version helps avoid compatibility issues with PHP packages, dependencies, and server environments.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through all practical ways to check your Laravel version, including command line methods, project files, and in-code checks. These approaches work across local machines, staging servers, and production environments.
Why Checking the Laravel Version Matters
Before diving into the methods, here’s why developers and teams regularly ask how to check my Laravel version:
- Some packages only support specific Laravel releases
- PHP compatibility depends on the Laravel version
- Security patches differ by framework version
- Upgrade planning requires knowing the current version
- Debugging issues often depend on framework changes
Knowing the exact version saves time and prevents breaking changes.
How to Check Laravel Version Using Command Line
How to Check Laravel Version from Command Line
The fastest and most reliable method is through the terminal.
php artisan --version
Output example:
This command works for almost every Laravel project and is the preferred approach for developers.
Use this when:
- You have terminal access
- You want a quick and accurate result
- You’re working locally or on a server
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How to Check Laravel Version in CMD (Windows)
If you’re on Windows:
- Open Command Prompt
- Navigate to your Laravel project directory
- Run:
php artisan --version
As long as PHP is configured in your system path, this works the same way as macOS or Linux.
How to Check Laravel Version in Project Files
How to Check Laravel Version in Project Using composer.json
Every Laravel project includes a composer.json file that defines the framework version.
Open:
composer.json
Look for this line:
"laravel/framework": "^10.0"
This tells you the major version range used by the project.
Important note: This shows the allowed version range, not always the exact installed version.
How to Check Laravel Project Version Using composer.lock
For the exact installed version, check:
composer.lock
Search for:
"name": "laravel/framework"
You’ll see a version like:
"version": "v10.12.0"
This is one of the most accurate ways to check Laravel version of a project.
How to Check Laravel Version in Code
How to Check Laravel Version in Code Programmatically
If you don’t have terminal access, you can check the version inside the application code.
app()->version();
This returns the Laravel version as a string.
Common use cases:
- Debugging in production
- Logging framework details
- Displaying version info in admin dashboards
This method covers:
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How to Check Laravel Version Using Artisan Tinker
Another reliable option is Laravel Tinker.
php artisan tinker
Then run:
app()->version();
This is useful when testing inside a running application.
How to Check Laravel PHP Version Compatibility
Laravel versions are tied to specific PHP versions.
After identifying your Laravel version, check PHP compatibility by running:
php -v
For example:
- Laravel 10 requires PHP 8.1+
- Laravel 9 requires PHP 8.0+
- Laravel 8 supports PHP 7.3+
Knowing both helps prevent runtime errors and deployment failures.
Which Method Should You Use?
| Situation | Best Method |
|---|---|
| Local development | php artisan --version |
| No terminal access | composer.lock |
| Production debugging | app()->version() |
| CI/CD validation | composer.lock |
| Windows environment | CMD + Artisan |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Relying only on composer.json for exact versions
- Forgetting PHP compatibility with Laravel versions
- Checking global Laravel installer instead of the project
- Assuming all environments run the same version
Always check inside the actual project.
How to Check Laravel Version of a Project - Final Thoughts
Understanding how to check Laravel version is a foundational skill for any developer working with modern PHP applications. Whether you’re maintaining an existing system or preparing for an upgrade, using the correct method ensures accuracy and avoids costly mistakes.
If you’re working on a legacy Laravel project or planning a version upgrade, verifying the framework version should always be your first step.
How to Check My Laravel Version - FAQs
What is the current version of Laravel right now?
As of now, Laravel 11 is the current major version of the framework. It introduces a cleaner application structure, faster performance, and a more streamlined developer experience.
Should I use Laravel 10 or 11 for my Startup?
If you’re starting a new project or want the latest features, go with Laravel 11 for modern improvements and longer support. If you need broader community resources or must support older PHP versions, Laravel 10 remains a stable choice until its support period ends.
How to check Laravel version by command in easy steps?
Open your terminal or command prompt, navigate to your Laravel project directory, and run php artisan --version. The command will instantly display the exact Laravel framework version your project is using.
How to check PHP version in cmd?
Open Command Prompt and type php -v, then press Enter. The installed PHP version and build details will be shown immediately on the screen.
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