How to switch domain registrars
Moving a domain is straightforward once you know the steps. Each guide below covers the exact path — unlock, authorization code, and transfer-in — grounded in ICANN's Transfer Policy and each registrar's own documentation, with an honest read on what you actually gain.
To switch registrars: confirm the domain is at least 60 days old, unlock it, get its authorization (auth/EPP) code from your current registrar, then start the transfer at the new one and pay — for most gTLDs the fee adds a year to your registration. Transfers typically take 5–7 days.
Transfer guides
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→→The universal transfer process
Every gTLD transfer between ICANN-accredited registrars follows the same six steps.
- 1. Confirm the domain is eligible
Under ICANN's Transfer Policy a domain can only move once it has been registered for at least 60 days and has not been transferred in the previous 60 days. A change of registrant can also start a fresh 60-day lock. A domain that recently expired and was renewed may need to wait ~45 days.
- 2. Unlock the domain
Remove the registrar/transfer lock in your current registrar's dashboard. While locked, the gaining registrar cannot pull the domain.
- 3. Disable WHOIS privacy if needed
Some registrars route the auth code or the transfer-approval email to the registrant address. If privacy masks that address, turn it off until the transfer completes.
- 4. Get the authorization code
Request the authorization code (also called the auth code, EPP code, authInfo code, or transfer code) from your current registrar. These codes are time-limited, so use one promptly.
- 5. Start the transfer at the new registrar and pay
Begin the transfer at the gaining registrar and enter the code. For most gTLDs the transfer includes a one-year renewal, so the fee is essentially one year at the new registrar's price.
- 6. Approve and wait
Approve the transfer from the confirmation email (or in-dashboard) to speed it up; otherwise it auto-completes. Transfers typically take about 5–7 days.