How to Transfer a Domain Name to a New Registrar (Step by Step)

Maybe your current registrar raised renewal prices, has poor support, or you simply want all your domains in one place. Transferring a domain to a new registrar is straightforward, takes about 5 to 7 days, and does not take your website offline if you do it right. Here is the step-by-step process.

Before You Start: Transfer Requirements

• The domain must be at least 60 days old, and it cannot have been transferred or had its owner details changed in the last 60 days (registrars may lock it after such changes).
• It must not be expired or about to expire within a few days (renew first if needed).
• You need access to the email address on your domain account.
• Most common extensions (.com, .net, .org, .io, .co, and many country codes) can be transferred, but some country domains have their own rules.

Good news: a transfer usually adds one year to your registration, so you rarely lose money by moving.

Step 1: Note Your DNS Settings

Before anything else, write down or screenshot your current DNS records (or nameservers). If your DNS is managed by your host or Cloudflare, it will keep working during the transfer. If it is managed by your old registrar, you will need to recreate those records at the new one so your site and email keep working.

Step 2: Unlock the Domain

Log in to your current registrar, open the domain’s settings, and turn off Domain Lock (also called Registrar Lock or Transfer Lock). This security feature blocks transfers while it is on.

Step 3: Get the Authorization (EPP) Code

In the same domain settings, request the authorization code, also called the EPP code, auth code, or transfer key. Some registrars show it instantly; others email it. If you cannot find it, contact your registrar’s support. Keep it private, as it works like a password for your domain.

Step 4: Start the Transfer at the New Registrar

1. Go to your new registrar’s transfer page, for example Namecheap.
2. Enter your domain and the authorization code.
3. Pay for the transfer (usually about the price of one year’s renewal, which adds a year to your registration).
4. Confirm any email you receive from the old or new registrar.

Step 5: Wait for Completion and Check Everything

Transfers usually complete within 5 to 7 days. Your old registrar may let you approve it sooner. Once complete:

• Check that your nameservers or DNS records are correct.
• Turn Domain Lock back on at the new registrar.
• Enable WHOIS privacy (most registrars include it free).
• Set up auto-renew so the domain never expires by accident.

Common Problems

• Transfer rejected: usually the domain is still locked, the code is wrong, or it is within the 60-day period.
• No confirmation email: check spam, and make sure your account email is current.
• Website down after transfer: the DNS records were not recreated; copy them from your notes into the new registrar.

Choosing where to move? Compare the best domain registrars.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a domain transfer take?

Usually 5 to 7 days, sometimes faster if your old registrar approves the transfer manually.

Will my website go down during a domain transfer?

Not if your DNS settings stay the same. Keep your nameservers or recreate your DNS records at the new registrar.

Do I lose the time left on my domain?

No. The remaining time carries over, and most transfers add one more year.