How to Transfer Domain
Learn how to transfer a domain with unlock, authorization code, email access, DNS checks, payment, approval, mistakes, troubleshooting, and FAQs.
Quick Answer
To transfer a domain, confirm it is eligible, update contact email, unlock the domain at the current registrar, request the authorization/EPP code, start the transfer at the new registrar, pay if required, approve confirmation emails, keep DNS records unchanged unless you intend to move hosting, and wait for the transfer to complete.
What You Need
- Current registrar login
- New registrar account
- Domain admin email access
- Authorization or EPP code
- Domain unlock access
- DNS record backup
- Payment method
Safety Precautions
- Back up DNS records before making changes.
- Do not change nameservers unless you understand the hosting/email impact.
- Check ICANN and registrar transfer locks or waiting periods.
- Avoid starting transfers right before expiration if timing is risky.
Privacy and Safety Notes
- Domain transfers can affect website and email if DNS is changed incorrectly.
- Keep domain contact email accessible before starting.
- Watch for phishing emails pretending to be registrar notices.
- Do not share authorization codes publicly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Step 1
Check transfer eligibility
Some domains cannot transfer during lock periods, disputes, or recent registration/transfer windows.
- Step 2
Confirm admin email
Make sure you can receive domain approval emails.
- Step 3
Back up DNS records
Save current nameservers and key DNS records for website and email.
- Step 4
Unlock the domain
Turn off registrar lock at the current registrar.
- Step 5
Get authorization code
Request the EPP/auth code and keep it private.
- Step 6
Start transfer at new registrar
Enter the domain and authorization code, then follow payment and confirmation steps.
- Step 7
Approve emails
Respond to approval messages from current or new registrar as required.
- Step 8
Monitor completion
Transfers can take hours to days. Confirm DNS and renewal date after completion.
Practical Example
Example: You move example.com from Registrar A to Registrar B. You back up DNS, unlock the domain, copy the EPP code, start the transfer at Registrar B, approve the email, and leave nameservers unchanged so the website stays online.
Common Mistakes
- Changing nameservers unintentionally
- Starting without admin email access
- Ignoring transfer locks
- Letting domain expire mid-transfer
- Sharing the EPP code
- Forgetting email DNS records
Troubleshooting
Transfer is denied
Check lock status, authorization code, admin email, domain age, payment, and registrar messages.
Website went down
Check nameservers and DNS records. Restore previous DNS if changed by mistake.
Email stopped working
Verify MX, SPF, DKIM, and related email DNS records.
I cannot get the auth code
Check registrar account, domain contact status, and support documentation.
Helpful Internal Links
FAQs
How long does a domain transfer take?
It can take from hours to several days depending on registrar and TLD rules.
Will my website go down during transfer?
Not if DNS and nameservers remain correct, but mistakes can cause downtime.
What is an EPP code?
It is an authorization code used to approve a domain transfer.
Can I transfer an expired domain?
Rules vary. Check registrar and TLD policies before waiting too long.
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