Domain Transfer

A domain transfer is the process of moving a domain name registration from one domain registrar to another, or to a new owner. The domain itself—its DNS records, expiration date, and renewal rights—moves to the new registrant's control.

How it works

Most domain transfers follow this sequence:

1. The current registrar unlocks the domain (if locked).
2. The current owner obtains an authorization code (also called an EPP Code) from their registrar.
3. The new registrar receives the authorization code and initiates the transfer.
4. ICANN (or the registry) sends a confirmation email to verify the transfer.
5. The current registrar has 5–7 days to acknowledge or refuse; if no objection, the transfer completes.
6. DNS records and nameserver settings remain unchanged unless intentionally modified.

Example

Moving example.com from Registrar A to Registrar B:

• Log into Registrar A, unlock example.com, copy the EPP code.
• At Registrar B, select "Transfer Domain," enter example.com and the EPP code.
• Confirm the transfer via email from ICANN.
• After 5–7 days and Registrar A's implicit or explicit consent, the domain moves to Registrar B.
• Your A records, MX records, nameservers, and other DNS settings persist unless you explicitly change them.

WarningDo not let your domain expire during transfer—transfers can be delayed or rejected if the domain is in grace period or has lapsed. Also, transferring locks your domain for 60 days post-transfer, preventing immediate re-transfer.

Transfers are useful for consolidating multiple domains with one registrar, switching to better pricing, or updating ownership after a sale.