Google Drive: Copy a file — MCP tool
Google Drive MCP tool: Duplicates a file into a new independent copy, optionally renamed and re-homed.
Technical name: copy_file
What task it solves
I want to duplicate a file.
Creates a copy with a fresh fileId — the original stays untouched. Works on binaries and Google-native files (Docs/Sheets/Slides) alike.
When to use it
Use it to clone a template document, snapshot a file before edits, or duplicate a file into another folder while keeping the original in place (unlike move_file).
What to provide
file_id— required. The file to copy.name— optional. Name for the copy (default: the original's name, not "Copy of ...").parent_id— optional. Folder for the copy.
What it returns
The copy's full metadata, including its new id and webViewLink.
What changes in Google Drive
A new file appears; comments and permissions are NOT copied. Each call creates another copy — after an ambiguous failure verify with search_files before retrying, or you will end up with duplicates.
Example request
Copy the contract template into the "Clients/Acme" folder in Google Drive as "Acme contract draft".
Errors and limitations
Folders cannot be copied — recreate the tree with create_folder and copy files one by one. Copying needs at least read access to the original and write access to the destination.
Related MCP tools
- Move a file — relocate instead of duplicating.
- Upload file content — create a file from new content.
Technical details
- Impact: changes data
- Group: Files
- Description source:
copy_fileregistration insrc/tools/files.ts - Full technical reference
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