Moving a domain takes 5 to 10 days and requires an authorization code from your current registrar

A domain transfer moves your registration from one registrar to another — for example, from GoDaddy to Namecheap, or from your web host's built-in registrar to a standalone one. The process is standardized by ICANN (the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers), so the steps are similar regardless of which registrars you use. You will need an authorization code from your current registrar, proof that you own the domain, and a few minutes to start the transfer at your new registrar. The domain stays live during the move.

The entire process happens in four steps: unlock your domain and request a code, initiate the transfer at your new registrar, confirm via email from your old registrar, and wait for completion. Most transfers finish within 24 to 48 hours, though ICANN allows up to 10 days. Your website and email continue working the whole time as long as your DNS records do not change.

Key Takeaways

  • You must unlock your domain at your current registrar and request an authorization code (also called an auth code or transfer code) before the new registrar can accept it.
  • The transfer process takes 5 to 10 days from start to finish, and you will receive email confirmations at each step.
  • Your domain continues to work normally during the transfer — there is no downtime if your DNS records are set up correctly.
  • Some registrars charge a transfer fee (usually $8 to $15), while others waive it; check before you start.
  • You cannot transfer a domain within 60 days of registering it or within 60 days of a previous transfer.

Step 1: Unlock your domain and get the authorization code

Log into your current registrar's account and find the domain management section. Look for a lock icon or a setting called "Domain Lock" — most registrars lock domains by default to prevent unauthorized transfers. Unlock it, then request the authorization code. The registrar will email it to the address on file for the domain (the registrant email). This code is usually a string of letters and numbers, 6 to 16 characters long. Save it somewhere you can find it quickly — you will need it in the next step.

Some registrars send the code when ready; others take a few hours. If you do not see it within an hour, check your spam folder. If it still does not arrive, contact the registrar's support team and ask them to resend it. There is no limit to how many times you can request a new code.

Step 2: Initiate the transfer at your new registrar

Log into your new registrar's account (or create one if you do not have one yet). Look for a link or button labeled "Transfer Domain" or "Move Your Domain Here." Enter your domain name and the authorization code you received in Step 1. The new registrar will verify the code with your current registrar.

At this point, you may be asked to confirm your contact information and choose a renewal period. Most registrars offer a discount on the first year of a transfer. You will also see the transfer fee, if there is one. Complete the payment if required.

Step 3: Confirm the transfer via email

Within a few hours, you will receive an email from your current registrar asking you to confirm that you want to transfer the domain. This is a security step — it prevents someone else from transferring your domain without your permission. Click the confirmation link in the email or reply as instructed. If you do not confirm within a set time (usually 5 to 7 days), the transfer will be cancelled.

You may also receive a second confirmation email from your new registrar. Read both emails carefully and follow the instructions in each one. Check your spam folder if you do not see either email within a few hours.

Step 4: Wait for the transfer to complete

After you confirm, the transfer moves into a queue. Your current registrar has up to 5 days to release the domain, and your new registrar has up to 5 days to receive it. In practice, most transfers finish within 24 to 48 hours. You will receive email updates as the transfer progresses. Once it is complete, your new registrar will send a final confirmation.

During this time, your domain continues to resolve to your website or email — there is no interruption as long as your DNS records (the settings that point your domain to your website) remain the same. If you are also moving your website or email to a new host, coordinate that separately and do not change your DNS records until you are ready.

What to do if the transfer stalls or fails

If the transfer does not complete within 10 days, contact your new registrar first. They can check the status and see whether your current registrar has released the domain. If the current registrar is holding it up, ask them why — common reasons include an unpaid balance on your account, a domain that was registered or transferred too recently, or a security hold.

If your current registrar refuses to release the domain, you can file a complaint with ICANN. ICANN maintains a list of accredited registrars and enforces transfer rules. You can also contact your new registrar's support team — they often have experience dealing with difficult transfers and may be able to help you resolve the issue.

Common mistakes to avoid

Forgetting to unlock the domain. If you skip this step, your current registrar will reject the transfer request. Go back and unlock it, then request a new authorization code.

Losing the authorization code. If you delete the email with the code and cannot find it, log back into your current registrar and request a new one. There is no limit to how many times you can request it.

Transferring too soon after registration. ICANN rules prevent transfers within 60 days of registration or within 60 days of a previous transfer. If you try to transfer before this window closes, the new registrar will reject the request. You will have to wait.

Changing DNS records during the transfer. If you move your website or email to a new host while the domain transfer is in progress, change your DNS records only after the transfer is complete. Changing them early can cause your domain to point to the wrong place and break your website or email.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I lose my email or website during a domain transfer?

No. Your domain continues to work normally during the transfer as long as your DNS records stay the same. If your email or website is hosted elsewhere, it will keep working. If you are moving your hosting at the same time, coordinate the DNS change to happen after the domain transfer finishes.

Can I transfer a domain that is expired?

No. Your domain must be active and in good standing to transfer. If it has expired, renew it at your current registrar first, then wait at least 60 days before transferring. Some registrars will renew an expired domain for you if you ask, but you will pay a renewal fee.

What if my current registrar is out of business?

Contact ICANN directly. They maintain records of all domain registrations and can help you recover access to your domain or force a transfer if your registrar is no longer operating. You will need proof that you own the domain, usually the original registration receipt or email.

Will transferring my domain affect my search engine rankings?

No. Search engines track domains by their name, not by their registrar. As long as your website stays at the same address and your DNS records do not change, your rankings will not be affected.

How much does a domain transfer cost?

Transfer fees vary by registrar and by domain extension. Most registrars charge between $8 and $15 for a .com transfer. Some registrars waive the fee as a promotion. Check your new registrar's pricing before you start the transfer.