JFrog "requires a valid license" feature error in CI

By Daniel Zoghalchali·Latchkey

The jf command invoked a feature the platform license does not cover. Artifactory or Xray refuses the operation until the license tier includes it or the license is renewed.

What this error means

A jf command (often audit, scan, or build promotion) fails with "This feature requires a valid license" or "The requested operation requires a valid Xray license".

[Error] The requested operation requires a valid Xray license.

Common causes

The feature is outside the license tier

Xray scanning, build promotion, or distribution are licensed features; a lower tier cannot invoke them from CI.

An expired or unapplied license

The platform license lapsed or was never applied, so licensed operations are blocked until it is renewed.

How to fix it

Skip or gate the licensed step

1. Confirm the platform tier includes the feature the step needs.
2. If it does not, remove or conditionally skip that jf step in CI.
3. For expired licenses, renew and apply the license, then re-run.

# skip Xray scan when the license does not cover it
if [ "$ENABLE_XRAY" = "true" ]; then jf audit; fi

Renew the platform license

If the feature is expected to be available, the license likely lapsed. Apply a current license in the JFrog Platform admin.

How to prevent it

• Match CI steps to the features your license tier covers.
• Monitor license expiry so licensed steps do not fail overnight.
• Gate optional licensed steps behind a workflow flag.

Frequently asked questions

Related guides

References

• GitHub Actions documentation