Domain Transfer Checklist: Everything You Need to Know

Transferring a domain from one registrar to another is a common task, but it involves more steps than most people expect. Use this checklist to ensure a smooth transfer with zero downtime.

Before You Start: Prerequisites

• Domain must be at least 60 days old — ICANN requires a 60-day waiting period after registration before a transfer.
• No recent transfers — You must also wait 60 days after a previous transfer.
• Domain must not be expiring soon — Some registrars won't accept transfers for domains expiring within 15 days.
• You need admin access — You must have access to the registrant email and registrar account.

Pre-Transfer Checklist

1. Document all DNS records

   Export or screenshot every DNS record. Include A, AAAA, CNAME, MX, TXT, SRV, and NS records. This is your safety net.

2. Check your WHOIS contact email

   Transfer authorization emails are sent to the registrant email in WHOIS. Make sure you can access this email address. If WHOIS privacy is enabled, the email might go to a proxy address — check with your registrar.

Unlock the domain

Most domains have a transfer lock (also called registrar lock or client transfer prohibited). Log in to your current registrar and disable this lock.

Get the authorization code (EPP code)

Request an auth code from your current registrar. This is a unique code required to authorize the transfer. It's usually available in the domain management panel.

Disable DNSSEC if enabled

If your domain uses DNSSEC, remove the DS records at the current registrar before transferring. DNSSEC configurations don't transfer between registrars and can cause resolution failures.

During the Transfer

1. Initiate the transfer at the new registrar

   Enter your domain name and authorization code. Pay the transfer fee (usually includes a one-year renewal).

2. Approve the transfer

   You'll receive an email at your WHOIS contact address. Click the approval link. Some registrars also require approval from the losing registrar's control panel.

3. Wait for processing

   Transfers typically take 5-7 days. The losing registrar has up to 5 days to release the domain. Some complete the transfer faster if both sides approve promptly.

After the Transfer

1. Verify DNS records — Check that all DNS records are intact. The transfer may use the new registrar's default nameservers, which might not have your records.
2. Re-enable domain lock — Activate transfer protection at the new registrar.
3. Set up DNSSEC if needed — Reconfigure DNSSEC at the new registrar if you were using it.
4. Update WHOIS information — Verify your contact details are correct.
5. Enable auto-renewal — Prevent accidental expiration.
6. Test everything — Verify website, email, and all services are working.

Common Transfer Issues

• Transfer denied — Usually means the domain is locked, the auth code is wrong, or the domain was recently registered/transferred.
• Email not received — Check spam folders and verify your WHOIS email address.
• Website goes down after transfer — DNS records weren't set up at the new registrar. Restore them immediately.

A domain transfer is a methodical process. Follow this checklist step by step, and you'll complete the transfer without any service interruptions.