Transferring a domain name from one registrar to another is a common process, especially when you’re switching web hosts or consolidating domain management. While the steps can vary slightly depending on the domain registrar, the overall process is largely the same. This guide will walk you through the generic steps required to transfer a domain name, regardless of which registrar you’re currently using.
Why Transfer a Domain Name?
Before we dive into the steps, let’s quickly cover why you might want to transfer a domain:
- Consolidation: Managing all your domains under one registrar can simplify renewals and settings management.
- Better Pricing: Some registrars offer better pricing or services for domain registration, hosting, or privacy.
- Improved Customer Support: You might find a registrar with better customer service, tools, or features.
- Website Migration: Moving to a new web hosting provider may require you to transfer your domain for smoother integration.
Now, let’s get into the step-by-step process of transferring a domain name.
Step 1: Verify Domain Eligibility for Transfer
Before initiating the transfer, check that your domain is eligible to be transferred. Most domain registrars have some basic requirements:
- Domain Age: ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers) regulations require that a domain must be at least 60 days old before it can be transferred.
- Recent Transfers: If you’ve transferred the domain in the last 60 days, it may not be eligible for another transfer.
- Domain Status: Make sure your domain is not in “Pending Delete” or “Redemption” status. These statuses indicate that the domain is about to be deleted or is in the process of deletion.
Step 2: Unlock Your Domain
Most domains are locked by default to prevent unauthorised transfers. You’ll need to unlock the domain before you can move it to a new registrar.
How to Unlock Your Domain:
- Log in to your current domain registrar’s dashboard.
- Navigate to the Domain Management or Domain Settings section.
- Find the option to Unlock the domain. This is usually labeled as “Domain Lock” or “Registrar Lock.”
- Disable or Turn Off the lock.
Once unlocked, your domain is eligible for transfer. Some registrars will also display a warning when the domain is unlocked to ensure security.
Step 3: Obtain the Authorisation Code (EPP Code)
An Authorization Code (also known as an EPP Code or Auth Code) is a unique code used to verify that the domain transfer request is legitimate. You will need this code to transfer your domain to the new registrar.
How to Get the Authorization Code:
- Log in to your domain registrar account.
- Go to the Domain Management section.
- Look for an option like Get Authorization Code or Request EPP Code.
- Your registrar will either display the code on the screen or email it to you.
Make sure to keep this code safe. You’ll need to provide it to your new registrar to complete the transfer.
Step 4: Disable Privacy Protection (If Applicable)
If you’ve enabled Domain Privacy Protection (also known as WHOIS Protection) on your domain, you’ll need to disable it before transferring. This service hides your personal contact details from the public WHOIS database.
How to Disable Privacy Protection:
- In your domain settings, find the option for Privacy Protection or WHOIS Guard.
- Turn it off temporarily for the duration of the transfer.
You can enable it again once the transfer is complete at the new registrar.
Step 5: Initiate the Domain Transfer at the New Registrar
Now that your domain is unlocked, and you have the authorisation code, you can begin the transfer process with the new registrar.
How to Transfer the Domain:
- Log in to the account at your new registrar (or create an account if you don’t have one).
- Look for an option like Transfer Domain or Transfer In.
- Enter your domain name and the authorization code when prompted.
- Confirm the details and submit the transfer request.
You may be required to pay a transfer fee at this stage. Most registrars charge for the transfer, but this usually includes a one-year renewal of your domain registration.
Step 6: Confirm the Domain Transfer via Email
After submitting the transfer request, both the old and new registrars will send you email notifications. You may need to confirm the transfer by clicking a link or following instructions in the email.
Here’s what to look for:
- From the old registrar: A confirmation email asking you to approve or cancel the transfer. Follow the instructions to approve the transfer.
- From the new registrar: A welcome or confirmation email stating that the transfer is in progress.
Keep an eye on these emails, as failure to confirm the transfer can delay or cancel the process.
Step 7: Wait for the Transfer to Complete
Domain transfers can take anywhere from a few hours to up to seven days to complete, depending on the registrars involved. During this time, your domain should remain active, and your website and email services will continue to work normally.
You can monitor the status of the transfer through your new registrar’s dashboard. Once completed, you’ll receive a confirmation email from the new registrar.
Step 7: Wait for the Transfer to Complete
After the transfer is complete, you’ll need to check and update your domain settings:
- DNS Settings: If you’re moving your domain to a new hosting provider, you’ll need to update the DNS (Domain Name System) settings to point to the new web host.
- Email Services: If you use email services tied to your domain, you may need to reconfigure MX records to ensure email functionality.
How to Update DNS Settings:
- Log in to your new registrar’s dashboard.
- Go to the DNS Settings or Name Servers section.
- Update the DNS records to point to your new hosting provider.
If your domain’s DNS settings remain unchanged (i.e., you’re only transferring the domain but not moving the website hosting), you may not need to update anything.
Why Transfer a Domain Name?
Transferring a domain name is a straightforward process, but it requires attention to detail at each step. Ensure that you have access to both your old and new registrar accounts, keep your authorization code secure, and closely monitor your email for any necessary approvals.
The process typically takes a few days, but once completed, you’ll have your domain registered under a new provider, ready to manage and grow your online presence. Whether you’re consolidating domains or migrating to a better registrar, these steps will ensure a smooth and successful transfer.
If you encounter any issues, both your current and new registrars should offer support to guide you through the process but get in touch with AMA website for help if not!