🔒 Two Types of Locks
Registrar Lock: You can disable this anytime (it's a security feature)
60-Day ICANN Lock: Mandatory waiting period after certain events (you cannot bypass this)
Type 1: Registrar Lock (clientTransferProhibited)
This is the standard security lock that prevents unauthorized transfers. You can toggle it on/off.
✅ How to Unlock
- Log into your registrar account
- Go to domain settings
- Find "Domain Lock" or "Transfer Lock"
- Toggle OFF
- Wait a few minutes to 24 hours for status to update
This lock exists to protect you. Keep it ON when you're not actively transferring.
Type 2: 60-Day ICANN Lock
This is an ICANN policy requirement. You cannot bypass it. It triggers after:
🆕 New Registration
Just registered a domain? You must wait 60 days before transferring it.
🔄 Recent Transfer
Just transferred TO this registrar? 60-day wait before you can transfer OUT again.
✏️ Registrant Contact Change
Changed the registrant name, organization, or email? 60-day lock. (Note: Some registrars let you opt out of this specific lock)
How to Check Lock Status
Run a WHOIS lookup and look for status codes:
$ whois yourdomain.com | grep Status
Domain Status: clientTransferProhibited
Domain Status: clientUpdateProhibited
| Status Code | Meaning | Can You Remove? |
|---|---|---|
| clientTransferProhibited | Registrar lock | Yes (toggle in dashboard) |
| serverTransferProhibited | Registry/ICANN lock | No (wait it out) |
| clientUpdateProhibited | Can't change WHOIS | Yes |
Stuck in 60-Day Lock? Your Options
Option 1: Wait It Out
The lock expires exactly 60 days after the triggering event. Mark your calendar.
Option 2: Point DNS Instead
You can change nameservers immediately. Point your domain to your new host while waiting to transfer registration.
Option 3: Contact Registrar (Rare Cases)
In exceptional circumstances (registrar going out of business, etc.), the 60-day lock might be waived. This is extremely rare.
Avoiding Future Lock Frustrations
- • Plan ahead: Don't update registrant info right before a planned transfer
- • Opt out of contact-change lock: Some registrars offer this (check during WHOIS updates)
- • Transfer within 60 days of registration: Not possible, so don't register at a registrar you plan to leave
- • Use one registrar long-term: Reduces transfer frequency
Choose the Right Registrar From the Start
The best way to avoid transfer hassles is to start with a registrar you'll want to stay with. Look for transparent pricing, good UI, and no dark patterns.
Compare Registrars →