Unlocking a domain & getting the auth code
How to unlock your domain and obtain the EPP/auth code so it can be transferred to a new registrar.
Before you can transfer a domain to a new registrar, you need to do two things at your current registrar: unlock the domain and get the authorization code (also called the EPP code or auth code). This guide walks you through both steps.
Quick summary
Log in to your current registrar, find your domain's settings, and disable the "transfer lock." Then request the EPP/auth code — it will be emailed to the address on file. You'll enter this code when initiating the transfer at the new registrar.
What you'll need
Intermediate 5 minutes- Login access to your current registrar
- Access to the email address registered to the domain
What is a domain lock?
A domain transfer lock is a security feature that prevents your domain from being transferred without your authorization. It's enabled by default on most domains. You need to disable it before starting a transfer.
Re-lock after your transfer is complete
Once your transfer is complete, it's good practice to re-enable the lock at your new registrar. This prevents unauthorized transfers.
What is an EPP code?
The EPP code (also called the auth code, authorization code, or transfer code) is a unique password that authorizes the domain transfer. Think of it like a one-time PIN that proves you're the legitimate owner. Without it, a transfer cannot be initiated.
How to unlock your domain and get the EPP code
Log in to your Namecheap account and go to Domain List.
Click Manage next to your domain.
On the Domain tab, find the Transfer Lock setting and switch it Off.
To get the EPP code, scroll to the Auth Code section and click Send by Email. The code will be emailed to the registrant address.
Log in to GoDaddy and go to your Domains list.
Click on your domain name to open its settings.
Look for the Domain Lock or Transfer Lock toggle and turn it Off.
To get the authorization code, look for Get authorization code or Transfer away from GoDaddy. GoDaddy emails the code to the registrant address.
Log in and navigate to your domain's settings.
Find the Domain Lock or Transfer Lock option and disable it.
Look for Get transfer authorization code or similar. The code will be sent to the registrant email.
Log in to Cloudflare and go to Domain Registration.
Click on the domain name to open its details.
Find the Transfer Lock and disable it.
Click Send Auth Code to receive the EPP code by email.
Using the EPP code
Once you have the code:
- Go to the new registrar's website and start a domain transfer.
- Enter your domain name and the EPP code when prompted.
- Complete the transfer checkout.
The code is typically valid for a limited time (often 7–30 days, depending on the registrar). If it expires before you use it, you can request a new one.
Common questions
Related guides
- How to transfer a domain
- Domain transfer checklist
- How to find where your domain is registered
- Domain privacy protection explained
Need a hand?
Domain transfer checklist
A complete checklist of everything to do before, during, and after transferring a domain name from one registrar to another.
Pointing your domain to a new site
How to update your domain's DNS records so it loads your new website — whether by changing nameservers or updating individual DNS records.