How to Rename Files and Directories in Python with os.rename() – Step-by-Step Guide

Renaming Files and Directories in Python

Python’s os.rename() function provides a simple, cross‑platform way to rename files or directories. Whether you’re cleaning up naming conventions or updating project assets, mastering this method is essential for efficient file handling.

Syntax

os.rename(src, dst)

Parameters

src: The existing path of the file or directory you wish to rename. It must exist before the call.

dst: The new path (or just the new name if staying in the same directory). This will be the file or directory’s new name.

Example

import os
os.rename('guru99.txt', 'career.guru99.txt')

In this example, the original file guru99.txt is renamed to career.guru99.txt within the same directory.

• Use os.rename() to rename guru99.txt to career.guru99.txt.
• After execution, the new file appears beside the original in the file explorer.

Full Working Code

import os
from os import path

def main():
    # Ensure the source file exists
    if path.exists('guru99.txt'):
        # Resolve the absolute path (optional)
        src = path.realpath('guru99.txt')
        # Perform the rename
        os.rename('guru99.txt', 'career.guru99.txt')

if __name__ == "__main__":
    main()

Handling Errors

Always guard against potential errors such as FileNotFoundError or PermissionError. Wrapping the rename call in a try/except block ensures your script fails gracefully:

try:
    os.rename(src, dst)
except FileNotFoundError:
    print(f"Source file {src} not found.")
except PermissionError:
    print("Permission denied.")
except Exception as e:
    print(f"Unexpected error: {e}")