What is the Auth Code (EPP Code)
The Auth Code (Authorization Code), also referred to as AuthInfo Code, EPP code (Extensible Provisioning Protocol), transfer secret, or transfer key, is essentially a domain password known only to the registrant or domain owner.
The code consists of 6 to 16 characters, combining letters and numbers, and is required to authorize a domain transfer.
Purpose of the Auth Code
When transferring a domain from one registrar or provider to another, the Auth Code is used to:
- Verify authorization from the registrant
- Confirm ownership of the domain
- Prevent illegal transfers of domains
Providing the Auth Code is the first and most important step in any domain transfer.
How to obtain the Auth Code
You can obtain the Auth Code depending on how the domain was registered:
- gTLDs (e.g., .com, .net): if registered directly with the registry (e.g., Verisign for .com domains), you must request the code using their domain management tools.
- ccTLDs (e.g., .fr, .co.uk) and new gTLDs (e.g., .shop, .music, .nyc): each has a specific registry that provides the code.
You can find the complete list of registries on the official ICANN website.
