Why Is My VS Code Terminal Showing the Wrong Python Version?

Fix incorrect Python versions in the VS Code terminal. Select the right interpreter, update the system PATH, and use virtual environments to manage Python versions.

Introduction

If your VS Code terminal is showing the wrong Python version, it means that VS Code is using a different Python interpreter than expected. This guide will help you fix the issue and ensure the correct version is used.

Step 1: Check the Python Version in VS Code

  • Open a terminal in VS Code (Ctrl + `).
  • Run the following command to check the active Python version: python --version
  • If the version displayed is incorrect, proceed with the next steps.

Step 2: Select the Correct Python Interpreter

  • Press Ctrl + Shift + P (Windows/Linux) or Cmd + Shift + P (macOS).
  • Type “Python: Select Interpreter” and press Enter.
  • Choose the correct Python version from the list.
  • Reopen the terminal and check the Python version again.

Step 3: Verify Python’s System PATH

  • Ensure the correct Python path is set in your system environment variables.
  • Check the Python installation paths: 
    where python  # Windows
which python  # macOS/Linux
  • If the incorrect version appears first, manually update the PATH variable.

Windows

  • Search for “Edit the system environment variables” and open it.
  • Go to “Environment Variables” → Select “Path” → Click “Edit”.
  • Ensure the correct Python path (e.g., C:\Users\YourUser\AppData\Local\Programs\Python\Python39\) is listed first.
  • Click OK and restart VS Code.

macOS/Linux

  • Open a terminal and edit your shell configuration file: 
    nano ~/.bashrc  # For Bash users
nano ~/.zshrc   # For Zsh users
  • Add the correct Python path to the file: export PATH="/usr/local/bin/python3:$PATH"
  • Save the file and apply the changes: source ~/.bashrc # Or use source ~/.zshrc

Step 4: Use pyenv or Conda for Version Management

  • If you manage multiple Python versions, use pyenv (macOS/Linux) or conda environments.
  • To set a global version in pyenv: pyenv global 3.9.12
  • For Conda users, activate the correct environment: conda activate myenv

    • Final Thoughts

    If your VS Code terminal shows the wrong Python version, ensure the correct interpreter is selected, update the system PATH, and use tools like pyenv or conda for better version management.

    Next Step: Learn how to fix ImportError issues when modules cannot be found: How Do I Fix the “ImportError: No Module Named” Issue?

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