Docker Push Error: denied: requested access to the resource is denied

TLDR

If you see denied: requested access to the resource is denied when pushing a Docker image, check your authentication, repository name, and permissions. Log in with docker login and make sure your image is tagged for the correct registry.

Pushing Docker images to a registry is a key part of most CI/CD workflows. Sometimes, you hit a frustrating error: denied: requested access to the resource is denied. This usually means there's a problem with authentication, repository naming, or permissions.

Why Does This Error Happen?

Not Logged In: You haven't authenticated with the registry.
Wrong Repository Name: The image isn't tagged for the right registry or namespace.
Insufficient Permissions: Your user doesn't have push access.

Step 1: Check Your Image Tag

Your image must be tagged with the full registry path. For Docker Hub, this usually means username/repo:tag.

# Tag your image for Docker Hub
docker tag my-app:latest username/my-app:latest

For private registries, include the registry URL:

docker tag my-app:latest registry.example.com/my-app:latest

Step 2: Log In to the Registry

Authenticate with the registry using:

docker login

You'll be prompted for your username and password (or token).

Step 3: Push the Image

Now push the image:

docker push username/my-app:latest

If you still get the error, double-check your permissions on the registry. For Docker Hub, make sure the repository exists and your user has write access.