Domain transfer authorization codes, also known as EPP codes, are essential security measures for moving your domain between registrars. Understanding how to obtain and use these codes is crucial for ensuring a smooth and secure domain transfer.
Key Takeaways
- What Is An EPP Code? - An EPP code is a unique, alphanumeric password required to authorize a domain transfer.
- Prepare For Transfer - Before starting, ensure your domain is eligible, your contact info is correct, and any privacy services are temporarily disabled.
- Obtain The Code - You can get the EPP code from your current registrar's portal, and you may need to unlock your domain first.
- Know Your Rights - Registrars are legally required to provide the EPP code upon request, and you can file a complaint with ICANN if they refuse.
- Troubleshoot Issues - Common transfer problems include an incorrect code, recent renewals, or expired domains, which may require contacting your registrar.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Key Takeaways
- What is an EPP Code?
- Timeline for Domain Transfer Process
- Preparing for Domain Transfer
- Obtaining the EPP Code from TrustName.com
- Obtaining the EPP Code from Other Registrars
- Rights of Domain Owners
- Common Issues and Troubleshooting
- FAQs
Transfer Authorization Codes, commonly referred to as EPP Codes (Extensible Provisioning Protocol Codes), are crucial for transferring a domain name from one registrar to another. These codes serve as a security measure to ensure that the transfer request is authorized by the domain owner.
The EPP code is generated by the current registrar and submitted by the registrant to the new (domain-receiving) registrar, who will send it to the losing registrar to authenticate the domain transfer. Let’s see how they work.
What Is An EPP Code?
An EPP Code is a unique alphanumeric string assigned to a domain name by the current registrar. It acts as a password for the domain and is required to initiate the transfer process to a new registrar. The EPP Code verifies that the transfer request is legitimate and authorized by the domain’s registered owner, reducing the risk of domain hijacking.
While the exact format of EPP code can vary between registrars, most codes are case-sensitive. EPP Codes are also typically valid for a limited time, after which a new code may need to be generated for security purposes.
Timeline For Domain Transfer Process
Once initiated, transferring a domain name typically takes 5-7 days to complete. This period allows sufficient time for verification and provides the current registrar with an opportunity to confirm the transfer with the domain owner. Some transfers may be completed more quickly, while others might take longer due to registry policies or additional verification steps.
Preparing For Domain Transfer
Before you jump into the transfer process, there are a few things you need to take care of -
- Make sure your domain is eligible for transfer. It should be at least 60 days old and have not been transferred within the last 60 days. Also, check that it's not in a ‘locked status’ due to a legal dispute or redemption period.
- Ensure you are listed as the domain's registrant or admin contact. If not, update this info with your current registrar before starting the transfer.
- If you're using domain privacy services, you may need to temporarily disable them for the transfer. Don't worry – you can turn them back on with your new registrar after the transfer is complete.
Obtaining The EPP Code From TrustName.com
- Log In to Your Customer Portal - Access your TrustName.com account by logging in to the customer portal using your credentials.
- Navigate to Domain Management - Under the ‘Domains’ dropdown, navigate to your registered domains and click on the domain you intend to send out. Scroll down to the domain management section.
- Request the EPP Code - Locate the button for generating EPP codes, which typically features tags such as “Get Authorization Code,” “Request EPP Code,” or similar. Click on this option to generate the EPP Code. The code will be sent to your registered email address or displayed directly in the portal.
Tip: Ensure that you unlock the domain before requesting an EPP code.
Note: 60-day policy (create note).
Obtaining The EPP Code From Other Registrars
- Log In to Your Account - Access your account on the registrar’s website where your domain is currently registered.
- Access Domain Management - Navigate to the section where your domain names are managed.
- Select the Domain - Choose the domain you wish to transfer.
- Request the EPP Code - Look for an option to request or retrieve the EPP Code. This option may be labeled “Get Authorization Code,” “Request EPP Code,” or a similar name. Follow the instructions to receive the code via email or directly within your account.
Rights of Domain Owners
The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) formulated a Transfer Policy to ensure that domain owners have the right to transfer their domains between registrars. The policy mandates that registrars must provide EPP Codes upon request and cannot unreasonably delay or deny transfers. Additionally, a 60-day transfer lock period applies after a domain is registered or transferred, during which the domain cannot be transferred again unless explicitly unlocked by the registrar.
If a registrar is not sharing the EPP Code, domain owners have specific rights and actions they can take -
- Request the Code - Contact the current registrar’s customer support and formally request the EPP Code.
- File a Complaint - If the registrar refuses to provide the EPP Code or delays the transfer without valid reasons, you can file a complaint with ICANN to ensure the registrar complies with transfer requests and provides the necessary codes.
- Seek Legal Advice - In cases where disputes arise or the registrar’s refusal to provide the EPP Code is unlawful, seeking legal advice may be necessary to resolve the issue.
Common Issues And Troubleshooting
Even with the best preparation, sometimes things don't always go smoothly, and your domain transfer may experience delays. Here are some common domain transfer hiccups and how to deal with them -
- EPP code not working - You should only copy and paste the given code and not type it out manually to reduce the chances of making an error. Double-check for typos and ensure you're using the most recent code. If it's still not working, contact your current registrar for a new one.
- Recently renewed domain - Some registrars won't allow you to transfer a domain immediately after renewal. If your domain recently expired and you had to renew it, you may need to wait for a specified time before you can transfer it out.
- Domain in redemption - If your domain has expired and entered the redemption period, you'll need to renew it with your current registrar before transferring it out.
- Transfers taking forever - Transfers usually take 5-7 days. If it's been longer, check with both registrars to see what's holding things up.
FAQs
An EPP Code is a unique authorization code required to transfer a domain from one registrar to another. It ensures that the domain owner authorizes the transfer request.
Log in to your TrustName.com customer portal, navigate to your domain list, select your domain, and request the EPP Code in the domain management settings.
Log in to your account on the registrar’s website, navigate to domain management, select your domain, and request the EPP Code through the available option.
Contact the registrar’s support, file a complaint with ICANN, or seek legal advice if necessary to ensure compliance with transfer policies.
Check with your specific registrar for the exact EPP code validity duration.
Most registrars allow you to generate a new EPP Code if needed. This can be useful if you suspect the code has been compromised.
No, each domain has its unique EPP Code. You'll need to obtain separate codes for each domain you wish to transfer. However, Trustname allows you to transfer multiple domains in one fell swoop by uploading a CSV file containing all the generated EPP codes for your different domains. We’ll move them to your Trustname account for you.