SQL CHECK constraint
A CHECK constraint in SQL is used to limit the values that can be inserted into a column. It ensures that the data in a table satisfies a specific condition.
Why CHECK Constraint is Used
  • Ensures valid data
  • Prevents incorrect values
  • Enforces business rules
Example rules:
  • Age ≥ 18
  • Salary > 0
  • Quantity between 1 and 100
Basic Syntax
CREATE TABLE table_name (
column_name datatype,
CONSTRAINT constraint_name CHECK (condition)
);
Example (Orders Table)
CREATE TABLE Orders (
order_id INT PRIMARY KEY,
order_amount DECIMAL(10,2),
quantity INT,
CHECK (order_amount > 0),
CHECK (quantity > 0)
);
Another Example (Age Check)
CREATE TABLE Customers (
customer_id INT PRIMARY KEY,
name VARCHAR(50),
age INT CHECK (age >= 18)
);
Short definition:
A CHECK constraint ensures that values in a column satisfy a specified condition.