Transferring a domain requires a bit of time and effort, but it’s not as complicated as you might think. There are only a few steps to undertake to initiate the action, fortunately. Note, however, that transferring a domain name requires two companies to approve the transfer, which slows matters a bit.

1. Disable the Registrar Lock

The first thing you need to do before transferring your domain is to disable the registrar lock. Most registrars keep your domain under tight security to prevent unauthorized transfers. After all, you don't want someone else to be able to seize ownership.

To turn off the lock, visit your registrar's domain management section, select the domain you wish to transfer, and click the disable lock icon (or check the box, or push the button—you get the idea). That's it!

2. Get the Authorization Code

While you're poking around the back end, look for an icon that, when clicked, sends an authorization code to your registered email address. You'll need this code to begin the next step.

3. Initiate and Verify a Domain Name Transfer

Log into the new registrar that will soon host your domain name. Many web hosts have a dedicated section for handling domain-related matters. Look for an option that lets you type in the domain name that's to be moved and the authorization code that you acquired using the previous step. Click the Transfer icon.

After you initiate a domain name transfer, you should receive an email with the details of the exchange. Give the information a once-over. If all is as it should be, click the included confirmation link and agree to the transfer terms. Be aware that once you verify the domain transfer, you won't be able to transfer it again for 60 days.