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dbmate

Agent-readyData & DBDatabase

SQL migrations, simple db workflows, and multiple databases from the terminal.

SQL migrations, simple db workflows, and multiple databases from the terminal. Built by amacneil.

Task fit

sql migrations, simple db workflows, and multiple databases from the terminal.

Lane

Inspect schemas, run safe queries, and understand your data fast.

Operator brief

Use dbmate for sql migrations, simple db workflows, and multiple databases from the terminal.

Run `dbmate new create_users_table` and see what comes back.

Repository family

amacneil

First trust check

dbmate responds locally and is ready for the first real command.

Safe first loop

Install, verify, then run one real command.

Safe database loop

Install command

$ brew install dbmate

Operator pack

Copy or export the working notes for this CLI before handing it to an agent.

Verify

$ dbmate --version

dbmate responds locally and is ready for the first real command.

First real command

$ dbmate new create_users_table

First steps

  1. 01Install dbmate.
  2. 02Run `dbmate --version` first.
  3. 03Start with `dbmate new create_users_table`.
  4. 04Install a CLI that matches your database engine.

When to use / hold off when

Best for

sql migrations, simple db workflows, and multiple databases from the terminal.

Use this when

You need databases in both local dev and CI.

Hold off when

You don't work with databases.

Trust and constraints

trusted89/100
Install readyTrustedCaution
JSON outputNo
Non-interactiveYes
CI-friendlyYes

Why operators pick it

  • dbmate fits data & db well, especially for sql migrations, simple db workflows, and multiple databases from the terminal.
  • 462 homebrew installs (30d).
  • Easy to automate.

Constraints

  • Output is mostly plain text.
  • Start with read-only or dry-run commands.

Repository context

Other CLIs in this family

This is the only CLI surfaced from this family right now.

Facts and links

Install withbrew
Homebrew installs (30d)462
GitHub stars6.8K
LicenseMIT
UpdatedMar 25, 2026