MySQL CURDATE() function

CURDATE() function

In MySQL the CURDATE() returns the current date in 'YYYY-MM-DD' format or 'YYYYMMDD' format depending on whether numeric or string is used in the function. CURRENT_DATE and CURRENT_DATE() are the synonym of CURDATE(). It's a simple but important function that serves various purposes in data manipulation, calculations, and record-keeping.

Note: All of the example codes of this page will produce outputs depending upon the current date.

This function is useful in -

• This is essential for recording when events, transactions, or changes occur in a database.
• This is useful for filtering and querying data based on time intervals or date ranges.
• When calculating ages, especially in combination with birthdates, CURDATE() helps determine the current age of individuals.
• When scheduling tasks or events in applications, CURDATE() ensures that the system records the correct current date and time.
• In logging systems, CURDATE() is used to timestamp log entries, aiding in tracking events and troubleshooting.
• CURDATE() is helpful for creating audit trails by recording when specific actions were performed in the database.

Syntax:

CURDATE ()

Syntax Diagram:

MySQL Version: 8.0

Pictorial Presentation

Example: MySQL CURDATE() function

The following statement will return the current date in ‘YYYY-MM-DD’ format.

Code:

SELECT CURDATE();

Output:

mysql> SELECT CURDATE();
+------------+
| CURDATE()  |
+------------+
| 2015-04-13 | 
+------------+
1 row in set (0.01 sec)

Example: CURDATE() function in numeric format

The following statement will return the current date in 'YYYYMMDD' format. Because the context of the function is numeric.

Code:

SELECT CURDATE()+1;

Output:

mysql> SELECT CURDATE()+1;
+-------------+
| CURDATE()+1 |
+-------------+
|    20150414 | 
+-------------+
1 row in set (0.02 sec)

Video Presentation

All Date and Time Functions:

Click here to see the MySQL Date and time functions.

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