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Domain transfer

A domain transfer is a change in which registrar manages a domain registration. The domain stays registered under the same name, but its registration record is moved from the current registrar to a new one. This is different from transferring the domain to a new registrant, which changes the person or organization associated with it.

How does a transfer between registrars work?

The registrant usually starts by requesting the transfer from the new registrar. The registrars verify the request, and for many generic top-level domains (gTLDs) the current registrar provides an authorization code that the new registrar uses as part of the process. The registrant may also need to confirm the transfer. The process cannot proceed if required authorization is missing.

For example, Casey manages casey-studio.example through Registrar A and wants to manage it through Registrar B. Casey checks that the name is eligible to transfer, follows Registrar B's instructions, and obtains the required authorization from Registrar A. If the request is approved and processed, Registrar B becomes the registrar listed for the domain. Casey remains the registrant unless Casey also requests a separate change of registrant.

Does transferring a domain move the website or email?

Not by itself. A registrar transfer changes who manages the registration. The website and email can continue using their existing providers. However, check whether the DNS service and name-server settings will remain available during the transfer. If those settings are changed or the DNS service is cancelled, the domain may stop directing visitors or mail to the right services.

If your goal is only to move a website to another host, you may be able to keep the current registrar and update the domain's DNS settings. If your goal is only to move the registration, keep the current DNS service and its records in place until you confirm that the new registrar or DNS provider is serving the same settings.

Can any domain be transferred at any time?

No. Transfers may be blocked by a lock or other status, a recent registration or previous transfer, a recent change to registrant details, an unresolved payment for an earlier registration period, or certain disputes. For gTLDs, ICANN's transfer rules set specific cases when a registrar may deny or must deny a transfer. Country-code domains can follow different rules. Check the registrar and registry requirements for the specific ending before starting.

The exact steps and fees also vary. If a transfer is denied, ask the current or new registrar for the reason. Do not share an authorization code with someone who is not handling a transfer you requested.

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