Sometimes you realize your Git branch name doesn’t quite fit your work anymore — maybe it’s a typo, or you want a clearer description. Git makes it easy to rename branches both locally and remotely.
This guide will show you how to rename a Git branch safely and keep everything in sync.
🧠 Why Rename a Branch?
- Fix typos or unclear names.
- Follow naming conventions.
- Reflect new scope or features.
✅ Step 1: Rename a Local Branch
If you’re currently on the branch you want to rename:
git branch -m new-branch-name
If you’re on a different branch:
git branch -m old-branch-name new-branch-name
✅ Step 2: Update Remote Branch (Optional)
If the branch was already pushed to a remote like GitHub, update the remote branch name:
Delete the old branch on remote:
git push origin --delete old-branch-name
Push the new branch and set upstream:
git push origin -u new-branch-name
✅ Step 3: Inform Your Team
Renaming remote branches can disrupt others if they’re using the old branch. Notify your team to update their local copies:
git fetch origin
git checkout new-branch-name
🧩 Summary of Commands
| Task | Command |
|---|---|
| Rename current branch locally | git branch -m new-branch-name |
| Rename different local branch | git branch -m old-branch-name new-name |
| Delete old remote branch | git push origin --delete old-branch-name |
| Push new branch and set upstream | git push origin -u new-branch-name |
📌 Final Tips
- Always check which branch you’re on with
git branch. - Renaming branches won’t affect your commit history.
- Coordinate with your team when renaming remote branches.
