Transferring a domain name from GoDaddy to another registrar is a straightforward process, but it requires careful attention to detail to ensure a smooth transition. Whether you want to consolidate your domains under one provider or switch to a different hosting service, understanding the steps involved is essential.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through each stage of transferring your domain from GoDaddy, highlighting important considerations, common pitfalls, and tips to avoid downtime.
Understanding Domain Transfer Basics
Before initiating the transfer, it’s important to understand what a domain transfer involves. Transferring a domain name means moving the domain registration from one registrar (in this case, GoDaddy) to another.
The domain’s ownership remains the same, but the management and billing switch to the new registrar.
Domain transfers typically take between 5 to 7 days to complete, although some registrars support faster transfers. During this period, your website and email services should remain operational if you take the right precautions.
Note: You cannot transfer a domain within 60 days of registration or a previous transfer due to ICANN policies.
Prerequisites for Transferring Your Domain From GoDaddy
Before you start, ensure the following conditions are met to avoid delays:
- Domain is unlocked: Domains are locked by default to prevent unauthorized transfers.
- Privacy protection is disabled: Some registrars require disabling WHOIS privacy to access the authorization code.
- Authorization (EPP) code is available: This code is necessary to authorize the transfer.
- Domain is older than 60 days: As per ICANN rules, domains cannot be transferred within 60 days of registration or previous transfer.
- Admin email is accessible: The transfer approval and communication go through the domain’s administrative contact email.
Checking Domain Eligibility
Log into your GoDaddy account and navigate to the domain manager to verify the domain’s status. Look for indicators such as:
| Status | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Locked | Domain cannot be transferred until unlocked. |
| Expired | Domain must be renewed before transfer. |
| Active | Domain is eligible for transfer if other conditions are met. |
Step 1: Unlock Your Domain
Domains are locked by default to prevent unauthorized transfers. Unlocking your domain is the first critical step.
To unlock your domain on GoDaddy:
- Sign in to your GoDaddy account.
- Navigate to “My Products” and locate the domain you want to transfer.
- Click on the domain name to open the domain settings page.
- Find the “Domain lock” setting and toggle it off (unlock).
Once unlocked, your domain is ready for transfer authorization.
Step 2: Disable Privacy Protection (If Enabled)
If your domain has privacy protection enabled (often called WHOIS Privacy), you must disable it before transferring because the new registrar needs access to your registrant details.
To disable privacy protection:
- From the domain settings page, look for the Privacy or WHOIS Privacy section.
- Turn off the privacy protection service.
- Confirm that your real contact details are visible in the WHOIS database.
Tip: After disabling privacy, wait a few minutes to let the changes propagate before proceeding.
Step 3: Obtain the Authorization Code (EPP Code)
The authorization code, also called the EPP code or transfer key, is a unique code required by the new registrar to initiate the domain transfer.
To get the authorization code from GoDaddy:
- Go to the domain settings page in your GoDaddy account.
- Scroll to the section labeled Transfer domain away from GoDaddy.
- Click on Get authorization code.
- The code will be sent to the administrative email address or displayed on-screen.
Keep this code confidential and do not share it with anyone except the new registrar.
Step 4: Initiate the Transfer with the New Registrar
Once you have the authorization code, it’s time to start the transfer process on the new registrar’s website.
Typically, the steps include:
- Log in or create an account with the new registrar.
- Locate their domain transfer page.
- Enter the domain name you want to transfer.
- Provide the authorization code when prompted.
- Pay the transfer fee (usually this includes domain renewal for one year).
After this, the new registrar will send a confirmation email to the domain’s administrative contact.
Step 5: Approve the Transfer
Check the administrative email inbox for a transfer approval request. This is a crucial step where you must explicitly approve the transfer to proceed.
Follow these guidelines:
- Open the email from the new registrar or GoDaddy.
- Click on the approval link or follow the instructions provided.
- Confirm that you want to transfer the domain.
Failure to approve the transfer within 5-7 days will cause it to expire and you will have to restart the process.
Step 6: Wait for Transfer Completion
Once approved, the transfer process usually takes up to 7 days to complete. During this time, the domain status will change to “Pending Transfer.”
GoDaddy will notify you when the transfer has been completed successfully. The domain will then appear in your new registrar’s account dashboard.
Important: Avoid making any DNS or name server changes during the transfer to prevent service interruptions.
Common Issues and How to Resolve Them
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Transfer denied | Domain is locked or privacy protection enabled. | Unlock domain and disable privacy protection. |
| Authorization code invalid | Incorrect or expired EPP code. | Request a new authorization code from GoDaddy. |
| No approval email received | Incorrect admin email or spam filters. | Check WHOIS info and spam folder; update email if necessary. |
| Domain recently registered or transferred | ICANN 60-day transfer lock in effect. | Wait until 60 days have passed before initiating transfer. |
Tips to Ensure a Smooth Domain Transfer
- Backup your website and email data before starting the transfer to mitigate risks of downtime.
- Verify contact details in the domain’s WHOIS record to ensure you receive important emails.
- Avoid changing DNS settings during transfer to prevent service interruption.
- Check domain expiration date and renew if necessary before transfer.
- Allow sufficient time for the transfer process, especially if you rely heavily on the domain for business.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I transfer a domain immediately after registering it on GoDaddy? | No. ICANN requires a 60-day waiting period before a domain can be transferred. |
| Will I lose my website or email during the transfer? | No. Domain transfers do not affect DNS settings or hosting. However, avoid changing DNS during transfer to prevent downtime. |
| How much does it cost to transfer a domain from GoDaddy? | Transfer fees vary by registrar but typically range from $8 to $15 and include a one-year renewal of the domain. |
| How long does the transfer process take? | It usually takes between 5 to 7 days after you approve the transfer email. |
| Can I cancel a transfer? | Yes, you can cancel the transfer by declining the approval email or contacting your current registrar. |
Summary of the Domain Transfer Process
| Step | Description | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|
| Unlock domain | Disable domain lock in GoDaddy settings. | 5 minutes |
| Disable privacy protection | Turn off WHOIS privacy to reveal registrant info. | 5 minutes |
| Get authorization code | Request EPP code from GoDaddy. | Immediate or within minutes |
| Initiate transfer | Start transfer on new registrar’s site. | 10-15 minutes |
| Approve transfer | Confirm transfer via email. | Within 5-7 days |
| Completion | Domain fully transferred and available at new registrar. | Up to 7 days |
Conclusion
Transferring your domain name from GoDaddy requires following a few essential steps, including unlocking your domain, disabling privacy protection, obtaining the authorization code, and approving the transfer through your email.
By carefully preparing and understanding the process, you can ensure a seamless transition without interruption to your website or email services.
Always double-check your domain’s eligibility, maintain accurate contact information, and communicate with both registrars during the transfer. With patience and attention to detail, your domain will be successfully transferred to your preferred registrar.
