Requesting a transfer code for your domain

To move a domain name to another party you need a transfer code — depending on the extension also called an EPP code or auth code. You request it from the registrar where your domain sits today.

How to request it

1. Find out where your domain is registered. If you no longer know, a public whois lookup reveals the registrar.
2. Check that the domain is unlocked. Many registrars switch on a transfer lock by default; with that lock on, the request is refused.
3. Check that the holder's email address is correct and working. Confirmations go to that address, and with an outdated address the transfer stalls without you seeing anything.
4. Request the code from that registrar and use it promptly. With many extensions a code is only valid for a limited time.

What differs per extension

• .be — you request a transfer code from your current registrar and pass it to the new one.
• .com, .net and .org — besides the auth code there is an explicit approval by email, and a waiting period imposed by the registry. Nobody can speed that up.
• .eu and .nl — each with their own rules and their own token format. Tell us the extension and we will say what is needed.

When a transfer is not possible

• The domain was just registered or just transferred. With many extensions a sixty-day lock period applies.
• The domain has expired. Renew it first; only then can it be transferred.
• The holder details are out of date. Correct those at your current registrar first.

Start in time

Do not wait until just before the expiry date. A transfer started on the last day that then stalls somewhere can, in the worst case, cost you the domain name. Allow at least two weeks of margin.

The full procedure for a transfer to us is on transfer a domain name.