How to Transfer a Domain Name

These are the four steps for transferring a domain name under the newest transfer policy.

The domain name transfer process changed at the end of May. Here is the current process for transferring a domain name between domain registrars.

1. Unlock your domain.

Transfer lock must be turned off on your domain before you initiate a transfer. This can be done within your registrar account.

2. Obtain the authorization code from your registrar.

This code can also be called the EPP code or transfer code. It is domain-specific. Most registrars will display this code next to your domain or email it to you. For example, at GoDaddy you click “Transfer domain away from GoDaddy” to initiate a transfer and get the authorization code.

3. Order a transfer at the new domain registrar.

You will need to provide the new domain name registrar with the authorization code.

4. Receive email from the old domain name registrar.

The old domain name registrar will send you a notice that the domain is being transferred. If you do nothing, the domain will be transferred within five days. Some registrars give you an option to expedite the transfer by clicking a link in the email.

Note: The old transfer process required the new registrar to send an email to the current registrant of the domain and get their authorization before proceeding. The elimination of that step has caused the transfer process to break temporarily at some registrars.