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DOMAIN TRANSFER

Transfer your domain to Bluehost

Transfer your domain for only $12.99* and get a complimentary one-year extension! 

Transfer My Domain
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Understanding the domain transfer process

What is a domain name transfer?

A domain name transfer is the process of moving a domain name from one domain registrar to another. We ensure the process is simple so you can focus on what matters most.

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Why transfer to Bluehost?

Access your domains and services from one streamlined dashboard. Easily auto-renew, create subdomains, access DNS management tools, or change your IP address. And prevent unauthorized transfers with our domain transfer lock services.

Here’s how to transfer your domain name

You’ll need to ready your domain name for transfer (at your current registrar). After that, you’ll take a few simple steps on Bluehost. Domain transfers can take between 30 minutes to 8 days to complete, depending on where you currently manage your domain name.

Prepare your domain for transfer

Before you begin the transfer process, make sure you have prepared your domain name at your current registrar. With a few exceptions, the following steps are the same for most domains:

 

  1. Make sure your domain was registered or transferred over 60 days ago.
  2. Remove any locks or security settings at the current registrar.
  3. Request an authorization code from your current registrar.
  4. Change your domain privacy settings to public.
  5. Check whether you have access to the email address associated with your domain name.
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Start the transfer at Bluehost

  1. Purchase a domain transfer on the Bluehost website.
  2. Log in to the Account Manager to enter your authorization code.
  3. Check the email address associated with your domain name for the authorization emails from your current registrar and Bluehost.

FAQs

A domain transfer is the process of moving your domain registration from one provider to another—in this case, transferring your domain to Bluehost. During the transfer, your website remains active as long as DNS settings are properly maintained; however, the transfer process involves updating the domain’s registration details. It may temporarily cause slight delays in DNS propagation, but with proper planning, your website and email services typically experience minimal or no downtime.


Yes. Before initiating a transfer, ensure that your domain is eligible: it must be at least 60 days old and not involved in any legal or transfer restrictions. Also, unlock your domain at your current registrar, disable any domain privacy or privacy protection services, and obtain the authorization or transfer code (EPP code). Make sure your contact information is up to date, as you'll need to verify ownership during the process.

Bluehost often includes a free domain transfer for the first year when you purchase a hosting plan or transfer your domain. The transfer fee generally covers a one-year renewal of your domain registration. Additional services like domain privacy protection (WHOIS privacy) may incur extra charges, depending on the domain extension. Always review current pricing, as promotions and fees can vary. Once transferred, your domain is renewed annually based on your registration period.

You can typically transfer domains that have expired if they are still within the registrar’s redemption or grace period, but this varies by domain extension and registrar policies. If a domain has lapsed beyond its grace period, it may be in the redemption period, during which recovery might require additional fees and procedures. It’s best to act promptly and verify the domain’s status with your current registrar to ensure transfer eligibility.

Transferring your domain to Bluehost offers several benefits:

  • Streamlined management: Manage your domain, hosting, and other services from a single dashboard.
  • Enhanced support: Access Bluehost’s award-winning, dedicated customer support for domain and hosting issues.
  • Bundled tools & services: Take advantage of integrated website building tools, security features, and easy DNS management.
  • Opportunities for growth: Access endless domain name registration options, resources like business email and marketing solutions, and a variety of WordPress hosting plans.

Your email and DNS settings generally remain unchanged during the transfer if you do not modify them. However, since DNS records are managed at the registrar, it’s important to ensure that your DNS records (such as MX records for email) are properly configured or copied over after the transfer. Bluehost provides DNS management tools, allowing you to maintain or update your settings to ensure continuity of your email and website services. If you plan to change DNS or email providers, do so after the transfer to avoid disruption. If you have more questions or need assistance with your domain transfer, Bluehost’s support team is ready to help!