“How to transfer a domain name” is one of the most asked questions. Since every domain registrar is different, it can be confusing to know exactly what to do. But it’s a simple process. Once you understand the steps to transfer a domain name, you can manage your domain and related services more efficiently.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about transferring your domain name:
- What exactly is a domain transfer?
- How long does it take to transfer a domain?
- How to transfer a domain name?
- How to transfer a domain name to someone else?
And much more. Let’s start with understanding what domain transfer is and why it is important.
What is a domain transfer?
A domain transfer is the process of moving your domain name registration from one registrar to another. Common reasons for transferring a domain name may include:
- Finding more competitive rates.
- Seeking superior support.
- Managing all your domains under one registrar for convenience.
Can I transfer my domain name?
As a domain owner, you have the right to transfer your domain name registration between registrars. The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) enforces policies that protect this right, provided specific conditions are met.
What is the average domain name transfer time?
A domain transfer can take anywhere between 5 to 14 days to complete. The amount of time it takes depends on how fast you meet the requirements and how quickly your current domain name registrar and the web host you’re switching to authorize the transfer.
How to transfer a domain name to a different registrar?
The first step in transferring your domain is accessing your current domain registrar. From here, you can prepare to transfer your domain name.
Step 1: Verify eligibility
Before you start the domain transfer process, verify these components:
- Is your domain eligible for transfer?
- Is your domain expired and need renewal?
- Was your domain renewed recently?
Step 2: Prepare your domain for transfer
- Update contact information.
- Log in to your current registrar’s domain management portal.
- Ensure your contact details, especially your email address, are up to date. This is crucial for receiving important communications during the transfer.
- Set up a backup email address: If you’ve tied your email to the domain (e.g., [email protected]), set up an alternative email to avoid losing access during the transfer process.
- Disable domain privacy settings: Turn off WHOIS privacy protection temporarily to allow the new registrar to verify your ownership.
- Unlock your domain: Owners usually lock their domains to prevent unauthorized transfers. Disable the domain lock setting in your registrar’s control panel.
- Obtain the EPP/Auth code: Request your domain’s transfer authorization code (also known as EPP code, Auth code or transfer key) from your current registrar. You’ll need this code to authorize the transfer.
- Update Nameservers if necessary: If you’re changing hosting providers, you may choose to update your domain’s nameservers to point to your new host. You can also do it after the transfer.
Step 3: Initiate the transfer with the new registrar
- If you haven’t already, sign up for an account with your new registrar.
- Locate the domain transfer section on the new registrar’s website (often labeled “Transfer Domain” or similar).
- Provide the domain you wish to transfer.
- When prompted, enter the authorization code you obtained from your current registrar.
- You’ll receive confirmation emails from both registrars. Follow the instructions to approve the transfer.
- Complete any required payment. Transfer fees often include a one-year extension of your domain’s registration.
- Decide whether to enable WHOIS privacy protection with your new registrar.
Note: The transfer process may take up to 10 days. Your website should remain accessible during this time.
How to transfer domain name to another owner
If you want to transfer ownership of your domain to another person or organization:
- Contact your current registrar to start the ownership transfer process.
- Provide the new owner’s contact details as required.
- Both you and the new owner will need to approve the transfer, usually via email.
Note: Changing the registrant information may trigger a 60-day transfer lock, during which the domain cannot be transferred to another registrar.
Why your domain transfer may be taking long
If your domain transfer is taking longer than the recommended amount of time, you may have encountered some issues, such as:
1. Your new web host hasn’t received the EPP code. It can take anywhere from five to 14 days to receive the EPP code in your email.
Check your domain’s registered email address if you haven’t received the code yet. If it shows the domain-associated email address, you’ll have to file a Change of Registrant request.
Otherwise, if you’ve changed your email address, check your spam or trash folders.
2. Invalid EPP code. The EPP code is case-sensitive, so if you encounter any errors, simply copy-paste the code again and make sure to remove any spaces before or after it.
If it still doesn’t work, the EPP code may have expired, so you will need to request a new one.
3. Domain privacy is enabled. If you’ve already received an EPP code but are still experiencing delays in domain transfer, check whether your domain privacy is disabled.
If your privacy settings haven’t been updated, the registrar will send the domain transfer emails to a Privacy Protection inbox that isn’t easily accessible.
Once domain privacy is disabled, the WHOIS database will take up to 24 hours to be updated. Only then can the new administrator receive the domain transfer email.
If you’ve tried the fixes here but cannot find the solution to your problem, check out our domain transfer troubleshooting guide.
Can your registrar deny domain transfer?
Yes, your registrar may deny a domain name transfer request. Common reasons include:
Domain age: Your domain is less than 60 days old.
Recent transfer or registrant change: You have transferred the domain or updated the registrant info within the last 60 days.
Domain is locked: The domain’s transfer lock is still enabled.
Evidence of fraud or dispute: There are legal issues concerning the domain.
Pending payments or charges: Outstanding fees with your current registrar.
Express written objection: The domain holder has objected to the transfer.
Legal proceedings: The domain is involved in UDRP or court proceedings.
Expired domain in redemption grace period: The domain is in a state that prevents transfer without restoration.
If your transfer is denied, your registrar should provide a reason. If you believe the denial is unjustified, contact your registrar for clarification or file a complaint with ICANN.
Additional questions about domain transfers
Yes, you can transfer an expired domain as long as it’s not in the Redemption Grace Period or pending deletion. You may need to renew it first, possibly incurring additional fees.
No, transferring a domain usually involves a fee charged by the new registrar. This fee often includes a one-year extension of your domain’s registration.
Perform a WHOIS lookup using the ICANN Lookup Tool. The “Registrar” field will display your registrar’s name.
ICANN enforces a 60-day lock period after domain registration or transfer. You must wait 60 days before transferring your domain to another registrar.
Request the EPP/Auth code from your current registrar through your domain management dashboard or by contacting customer support.
Possible reasons include inaccurate contact information, discrepancies in ownership details, outstanding fees or domain lock status. Contact your registrar for clarification or file a complaint with ICANN if necessary.
Yes, you can transfer it. But make sure that it isn’t deleted or entered the Redemption Grace Period. You might need to renew it with your current registrar before transferring.
No, transferring your domain does not impact SEO as long as the domain name and website content remain the same.
No, your remaining registration time is retained. Additionally, transferring often adds an extra year to your domain’s expiration date.
Yes, once you’ve confirmed the successful transfer and ensured everything is functioning correctly, you should cancel any services with your old registrar to avoid unnecessary charges.
Transferring your domain name doesn’t have to be complicated. By following the outlined steps and being cautious of any possible issues, you can ensure a smooth transition to your new registrar.
If you are looking to buy a new domain name, Bluehost can also help you with that!
Bluehost domains offer domain privacy, 24/7 support and the ability to create a fully customizable website. We also offer an AI-powered domain generation tool to help you choose the perfect name.
