How to Transfer Your Domain to a New Registrar
Moving your domain from GoDaddy to Namecheap (or anywhere else) is straightforward. Here's how to do it without losing your site.
2 min read · Updated 2026-04-15
Short answer
Domain transfers take 5–7 days. You unlock the domain at your current registrar, get an auth code (EPP code), then initiate the transfer at your new registrar. Your website stays live throughout.
Before you start
- Your domain must be at least 60 days old (ICANN rule)
- The domain can't expire within 60 days of transfer (renew first if needed)
- Your contact email must be accessible (you'll get verification emails)
Step-by-step transfer process
Step 1: Unlock the domain
Log in to your current registrar and find the domain settings. Look for "Domain Lock" or "Transfer Lock" and turn it off.
Step 2: Get the auth code (EPP code)
In the same settings area, request your authorization code. It will be emailed to you (usually the domain's contact email address).
Step 3: Initiate the transfer at your new registrar
Go to Namecheap (or wherever you're transferring to), find the domain transfer section, enter your domain and auth code.
Step 4: Approve the transfer
You'll receive an email from your current registrar asking you to confirm or approve the transfer. Approve it — this speeds up the process.
Step 5: Wait
Transfers take 5–7 days to complete. Your website and email stay online throughout.
Will my website go down during the transfer?
No. Your website and email continue to work normally during the transfer. DNS records stay intact.