An EPP code is the authorisation code you need to transfer a domain name from one registrar to another. It is sometimes called a transfer code, domain password, AuthInfo code, or domain EPP key. If you are moving a domain to a new hosting provider or registrar, this code is one of the main requirements used to verify that you are allowed to make the transfer.
For most domain extensions, the EPP code is provided by your current registrar and entered at the new registrar during the transfer process. It helps prevent unauthorised transfers and protects domain ownership. If you are moving a domain to ITA, understanding how this code works will make the transfer process much smoother.
What an EPP code does
An EPP code is used to confirm that the person requesting the transfer is the legitimate domain holder or an authorised contact. In practice, it acts as a security check between registrars. Without the correct code, the receiving provider cannot complete the transfer request.
The exact name of the code can vary depending on the domain registry and registrar interface. You may see terms such as:
- EPP code
- Auth code
- Authorization code
- Transfer code
- Domain password
- AuthInfo code
Although the label changes, the purpose is the same: it proves that the transfer is approved by the current domain account holder.
When you need an EPP code
You usually need an EPP code when transferring a domain from one registrar to another. This is common when changing hosting providers, moving DNS management, or consolidating multiple domains under one control panel.
You may need it in situations such as:
- Moving a domain to a new registrar or hosting platform
- Changing the company that manages your domain renewals
- Transferring a domain as part of a website migration
- Moving all services, including DNS, email and hosting, under one provider
In a managed hosting environment, the EPP code is typically only required for the domain transfer itself. It is not usually needed for routine DNS changes, nameserver updates, SSL installation, or content migration.
How the EPP code works during a transfer
The transfer process normally follows a standard pattern. First, you request the EPP code from your current registrar. Then you start the transfer at the new provider and submit the code when asked. After that, the transfer is confirmed through the domain registry and, in many cases, by email approval.
A typical transfer flow looks like this:
- You unlock the domain at the current registrar if it is locked.
- You request the EPP code from the current provider.
- You start the transfer at the new registrar or hosting company.
- You enter the EPP code during the transfer order.
- You approve the transfer if a confirmation email is sent.
- The domain is moved once the registry completes the process.
Depending on the domain extension, the transfer may complete within a few hours or take several days. Some transfers are automatic once approved, while others wait for the losing registrar to release the domain or for the registry to apply the final change.
How to find an EPP code
Most registrars provide the EPP code inside the domain management area of your control panel. The exact path varies, but it is usually found in a section related to transfers, security, or domain settings.
Common places to check
- Domain overview page
- Transfer settings
- Domain security section
- Registrant or admin contact settings
- Control panel notifications or account emails
In some cases, the code is displayed directly in the account. In other cases, the registrar sends it by email after you request it. Some providers require identity verification before revealing the code, especially if the domain is critical or the account has additional security protections.
If you are using a hosting control panel such as Plesk alongside a registrar account, remember that Plesk manages hosting services, not registrar-level transfers. The EPP code is usually obtained from the domain registrar, not from the server control panel.
Common requirements before you can transfer a domain
The EPP code is only one part of a domain transfer. To avoid delays, make sure the domain meets the transfer conditions required by the registry and registrar.
- The domain must be unlocked
- The EPP code must be correct and current
- The domain owner’s email address should be accessible
- The domain must not be within a registrar lock or transfer prohibition period
- The domain must be eligible for transfer under its extension rules
Many domains cannot be transferred immediately after registration or a previous transfer. For example, some registry rules enforce a waiting period. If the transfer is attempted too soon, the EPP code may be correct but the request will still fail.
How to prepare a domain for transfer
If you are moving a domain to ITA or another provider, preparing the domain properly can reduce downtime and avoid rejections. Before starting the transfer, check the following points.
1. Confirm ownership details
Make sure you have access to the registrant email address and the domain account. Transfer approval messages are usually sent there, and missing email access can stall the process.
2. Remove domain lock
Many registrars apply a transfer lock by default. Unlock the domain in the control panel before starting the transfer request.
3. Request the EPP code
Locate the transfer code in the current registrar account or request it through support if it is hidden or protected. Some registrars provide it instantly, while others require manual approval.
4. Check renewal timing
If the domain is close to expiry, it may be worth renewing it before the transfer. This can help reduce the risk of service interruption during the move.
5. Review DNS and hosting dependencies
If your website or email service still depends on the current provider, update DNS records carefully. A transfer does not automatically move your website files, email mailboxes, or application settings unless those services are migrated separately.
What happens if the EPP code is wrong
If you enter the wrong EPP code, the transfer request will usually fail or remain pending until the correct code is provided. In some systems, you can simply update the transfer request with the right code and try again. In others, you may need to cancel and restart the process.
Common reasons for an invalid code include:
- Typographical errors
- Expired or regenerated codes
- Copying extra spaces or hidden characters
- Using a code for a different domain
- The registrar has changed the code after a security update
If the code does not work, contact the current registrar and ask them to verify that the code is active and linked to the correct domain name.
Does every domain extension use an EPP code?
Most common generic and country-code top-level domains use some form of authorisation code, but the exact process can vary by registry. Some domain extensions may use a different transfer workflow, while others may require extra steps in addition to the code.
Examples of extensions that commonly use an EPP-style transfer code include many traditional domain names such as .com, .net and various country-code domains. However, rules are not identical across all extensions. Always check the transfer instructions for your specific TLD before starting the process.
If you are unsure, your current registrar or the receiving provider should be able to tell you whether an EPP code is required and whether any special transfer conditions apply.
How an EPP code differs from nameservers and DNS
It is easy to confuse transfer codes with nameservers or DNS records, but they serve different purposes.
- EPP code: authorises the domain transfer between registrars
- Nameservers: tell the internet where to look for your DNS zone
- DNS records: control traffic routing for website, email and other services
You can change nameservers without transferring a domain. You can also transfer a domain while keeping the same nameservers, provided the DNS continues to resolve correctly. In managed hosting setups, this distinction matters because a domain transfer does not automatically move all hosting services.
Security best practices for EPP codes
An EPP code is sensitive information because it can be used to move a domain. Treat it like a password and only share it with trusted parties involved in the transfer.
- Do not publish the code in email threads that others can access
- Store it securely until the transfer completes
- Change registrar account passwords if you suspect unauthorised access
- Keep domain contact details up to date
- Enable account security features such as two-factor authentication where available
Good security practices help prevent accidental or malicious domain movements. This is especially important for business websites, mail domains, and client-facing services.
Step-by-step: using an EPP code to move a domain to a new provider
If you are transferring a domain as part of moving hosting or consolidating services, the process is usually straightforward when the preparation is done correctly.
- Sign in to your current domain registrar account.
- Check that the domain is eligible for transfer.
- Unlock the domain if it is currently locked.
- Request the EPP code from the registrar.
- Start the transfer order at the new provider.
- Enter the EPP code exactly as provided.
- Approve any transfer confirmation emails sent to the registrant contact.
- Wait for the registry to complete the transfer.
- Verify that DNS, website and email settings are still correct after the move.
For business services, it is often a good idea to keep the old hosting account active until the transfer is finished and the new setup has been tested. That gives you time to confirm that the site loads correctly and that email delivery is unaffected.
Common problems during domain transfers
Even with the correct EPP code, transfers can be delayed by registry rules or account settings. The most common issues include:
- The domain is still locked
- The registrant email cannot receive approval messages
- The code was copied incorrectly
- The domain is in a waiting period after registration or a previous transfer
- The current registrar has a pending dispute or restriction on the domain
- The receiving provider has not completed all transfer steps
If a transfer seems stuck, check each requirement one by one rather than requesting a new code immediately. In many cases, the issue is not the code itself but a missing prerequisite such as lock status or email approval.
FAQ
Is an EPP code the same as a domain password?
In many registrars, yes. The term may differ, but it usually refers to the same transfer authorisation code used to move the domain to another registrar.
Can I transfer a domain without an EPP code?
For most standard transfers, no. The code is required to prove that the request is authorised. Some special domain extensions may use different procedures, but the general rule is that a transfer code is needed.
Where do I get the EPP code from?
Usually from the current registrar’s control panel or support team. It may be shown in the domain management area or sent by email after you request it.
Will transferring a domain move my website too?
Not automatically. The transfer only moves the domain registration. Website files, databases, email accounts and application settings must be migrated separately unless your provider handles the full migration.
Do I need to change nameservers before transfer?
No, not necessarily. Nameservers and transfer codes are different. You can usually transfer the domain first and change nameservers later, or keep the current DNS setup in place during the transfer.
How long is an EPP code valid?
This depends on the registrar. Some codes remain valid until regenerated, while others expire after a set period. If the code stops working, request a fresh one.
Conclusion
An EPP code is a simple but essential part of transferring a domain name. It protects the domain from unauthorised movement and confirms that the transfer request is approved by the current holder. If you are moving a domain to ITA, the key steps are to unlock the domain, request the code from your current registrar, and enter it correctly during the transfer order.
Once the transfer is complete, review your DNS, website and email settings to ensure everything continues to work as expected. Taking a few minutes to prepare properly can save time, reduce downtime and make the migration much easier to manage.