ORA-00904: "REF": invalid identifier in Toad
"REF"—that no longer exist in certain Oracle versions (notably 19c and above). As a result, the query breaks, and Toad throws the invalid identifier error.Typically, you encounter this error in Toad, specifically when accessing the Script tab for a table or view—usually after pressing F4 to describe the object and then selecting the Script tab. At that point, you’ll likely see an error like:
ORA-00904: "REF": invalid identifier
To resolve it, follow these steps:
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Open Script Options.
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In the dialog that appears, make sure the Audit statements checkbox under the Related Objects section is unchecked.
Once that is unchecked, you’ll be able to view the script details for your table or view without encountering the error.
Quick Fix
Here’s how to get the script loading correctly:
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Press F4 on any table or view to open the object details.
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Switching to the Script tab will trigger the error.
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Go into Script Options (usually accessible via a button or menu when you're in the Script view).
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Find the Related Objects section.
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Uncheck the Audit statements option.
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Now revisit the Script tab—the details should load correctly, error-free.
Why This Works
By disabling the Audit statements option, you're preventing Toad from querying columns like "REF" that aren't supported anymore. Instead, Toad will run a more compatible query, allowing the script to display properly.
