How to transfer a domain

A domain transfer moves your domain name from one registrar to another — for example, from GoDaddy to Namecheap. You might do this to consolidate domains, find better pricing, or move to a registrar you prefer. This guide explains the process from start to finish.

What you'll need

• Access to your current registrar account
• Access to the email address on the domain registration
• An account at the new registrar

Before you start

Check these things before beginning a transfer:

1. The domain is more than 60 days old. ICANN rules prevent transfers within 60 days of initial registration.
2. The domain isn't expiring soon. Avoid transfers if the domain expires in fewer than 30 days — it's safer to renew first, then transfer.
3. You have access to the registrant email address. You'll need to approve the transfer from that email. If you don't have access, update the email at the current registrar first.
4. The domain isn't locked in a dispute. Domain disputes can prevent transfers.

Step 1: Unlock the domain at your current registrar

By default, most domains are "locked" to prevent unauthorized transfers. You need to unlock it.

• Log in to your current registrar
• Find your domain's settings
• Look for "Transfer Lock," "Domain Lock," or similar
• Turn it off (unlock the domain)

See Unlocking a domain & getting the auth code for detailed steps.

Step 2: Get the EPP / auth code

The EPP code (also called auth code, authorization code, or transfer code) is a password that proves you're authorized to transfer the domain. Your current registrar will provide it.

• Look for "Get EPP code," "Auth code," or "Transfer key" in your domain settings
• It's usually emailed to the registrant email address on file

Keep this code safe — it's only needed for a few days.

Step 3: Initiate the transfer at the new registrar

Step 4: Approve the transfer

After initiating the transfer:

• You'll receive an approval email at the registrant email address.
• Click the approval link or follow the instructions to confirm.
• Your current registrar may also send a notification email.

Some registrars approve transfers automatically after 5 days if you don't respond; others require active approval.

Step 5: Wait for the transfer to complete

Domain transfers typically take 5–7 days under ICANN rules. During this time:

• Your website and email continue to work normally — DNS is not affected by the transfer itself.
• You'll get a confirmation email once the transfer is complete.
• The domain will appear in your new registrar's account.

After the transfer

Once the transfer is complete:

1. Turn on auto-renew at the new registrar. See Turning on auto-renew.
2. Enable WHOIS privacy if it's not already on. See Domain privacy protection explained.
3. Set up two-factor authentication on the new registrar account.
4. Log in to the old registrar and confirm the domain is gone.

Common questions

Related guides

• Domain transfer checklist
• Unlocking a domain & getting the auth code
• Nameservers vs DNS records
• Turning on auto-renew
• DNS propagation: why changes take time

Learn more

• ICANN — Transferring a domain name