The short answer is to keep your domain from being hijacked! Transferring your domain name registration from one registrar to another registrar is an exercise in dotting all the 'i's and crossing all the 't's. In concept it is very simple: You order your domain transferred and the current registrant is contacted by the new registrar for their approval of the transfer. The big stumbling block is that you have to prove that you are entitled to transfer the domain.

Two factors are used to authenticate your identity. You must know the transfer password (EPP code or AUTH code) and you must have access to the e-mailbox of the admin contact as listed in the WHOIS database. The information in the WHOIS database is critical; if it is not current your transfer will not go smoothly if at all. Remember, it is your responsibility to keep this information current.

To get your domain registration ready to transfer, contact your current registrar (usually online) to complete these steps: 

FIRST  Turn off any domain privacy. Domain privacy is designed to hide your e-mail addresses, but they are needed by the new registrar to authenticate your identity.

SECOND  Turn off any lock that blocks domain transfers. Domains are locked to prevent transfers!

THIRD  Check the WHOIS database to make sure your domain is unlocked (status is ok) and the admin contact e-mail address is an address where you can receive mail.

Finally  Obtain your transfer password (EPP code or AUTH code) from your current registrar.


Now you are ready to order your domain registration transfered with you new registrar.