SQLCODE -138
SQL0138 Argument of substring function not valid
- IBM message text
- Argument &1 of substringing function not valid.
- SQLCODE
- -138
- SQLSTATE
- 22011
Most common cause
SUBSTR (or LEFT, or OVERLAY) with a start position or length beyond the string's length, or an argument that is not an integer.
Other causes
- A position computed with LOCATE, which returns 0.
How to fix it
Check lengths with LENGTH, or use LEFT and RIGHT when they are enough. Guard the calculation with a CASE when the position can be 0.
Related errors
Text and codes from IBM documentation for 7.6. Checked on .