Domain Transfers: A Complete Guide

Getting Your Domain Ready for Transfer

Before initiating a domain transfer—whether to a different registrar or owner—you’ll need to make sure the following is true of your domain:

1. Your domain is at least 60 days old. Per ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers), if you registered or previously transferred your domain within the last 60 days, it’s not eligible for transferring to a new host or owner.
2. Your domain is active & in good standing. If your domain has expired or is pending deletion, you likely won’t be able to transfer. To check the status of your domain, you can do an ICANN lookup or search WHOIS.
3. You have access to the administrative email address. Make sure you have full access to the administrative email listed in the contact information, as all confirmation emails will be sent to that address.
4. Your WHOIS privacy settings are temporarily disabled. You may need to turn off your domain privacy settings so the new registrar or owner can verify your information through the WHOIS public records.

To learn more about ICANN and WHOIS, check out our Domain Privacy page.

Transfer a Domain to a New Registrar or Owner

To transfer a domain to a new registrar or owner, follow the steps outlined below to ensure security, compliance, and a smooth process.

1. Confirm ownership and agreements (for ownership transfers). If transferring to a new owner, verify their identity and agree on clear terms in writing, including transfer timelines and (if applicable) payment arrangements. Keep detailed records of all communications and agreements.
2. Unlock the domain. Log in to your current registrar’s account and turn off the “Registrar Lock” or “Transfer Lock” setting, typically under “Domain Management” or “Security Settings.”
3. Disable domain privacy protection (if required). Some registrars require privacy protection to be turned off before a transfer can proceed. Check with your registrar to see if this applies.
4. Obtain the authorization code. Your current registrar will provide a unique code (also called an EPP or transfer key). Copy it carefully, as the new owner or registrar will need it to initiate the transfer.
5. Initiate the transfer with the new registrar. Submit the authorization code through the new registrar’s transfer process. Most registrars have a dedicated transfer page with step-by-step instructions.
6. Approve the transfer request. After initiation, you’ll receive a confirmation email from your current registrar (and sometimes from the new registrar). Follow the instructions to approve the transfer.
7. Wait for completion. Transfers usually take 5–7 days. Once finalized, you’ll receive confirmation from the new registrar, and the domain ownership or registration will officially change.
8. Keep detailed records. Maintain documentation of all emails, confirmations, and agreements—especially for ownership transfers—to protect yourself in case of disputes.

What to Do After You Transfer Your Domain 

Once your domain transfer is complete, use the checklist below to verify the transfer, protect your domain, and keep your website running smoothly.

1. Verify the transfer is complete. Log in to your new registrar and ensure your domain appears correctly in your account. Check that your website, business email, and any relevant subdomains are functioning as expected.
2. Confirm WHOIS registration details. Make sure WHOIS lists the correct owner and contact information. If ownership was not part of the transfer, it should remain unchanged.
3. Secure your domain. Restore the “Registrar Lock” or “Transfer Lock” setting to prevent unauthorized changes or transfers.
4. Set up billing and renewal. Check that auto-renewal and payment settings are configured with your new registrar to avoid accidental expiration. Note: this step only applies if you transferred your domain to a new registrar and maintained ownership. However, it’s still a good idea to check with your old registrar to make sure you’ll no longer be charged for the domain.
5. Document the transfer. Keep copies of all confirmation emails, authorization codes, and any agreements. Record the exact date the transfer was initiated and completed for your records.
6. Monitor your domain and services. For the next 2–4 weeks, regularly check your website, email, and any connected services to ensure everything continues to run smoothly after the transfer.

Why Transfer Your Domain to Northwest

Transferring your domain to Northwest Registered Agent ensures maximum privacy, security, and control. With built-in WHOIS privacy, your personal information is automatically protected, keeping you safe from unwanted spam and phishing emails.

You’ll also retain full domain ownership, allowing you to manage your DNS settings, renewals, and transfers without restrictions. Backed by trusted, knowledgeable support and a reputation for reliability, Northwest makes transferring and managing your domain simple, secure, and worry-free—giving you peace of mind so you can focus on growing your business.