About .adult domain
.adult is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) operated by ICM Registry, which also manages .xxx. It was delegated to the root zone in December 2014 and entered general availability in June 2015. The registry applied for this extension alongside .porn and .sex as part of ICANN's New gTLD Program. Its purpose as a domain product is to provide a dedicated namespace for clearly labeled online content.
Who can register .adult domain
Registration for .adult domains is open to anyone globally, with no geographic or organizational restrictions. There are no specific verification or documentation requirements for general registrants. The TLD is intended for use by the adult entertainment community, but eligibility is not limited to verified industry participants. All applicants must comply with the registry's acceptable use policies.
How to register .adult domain
- Search for your desired .adult domain name using a registrar's availability checker to confirm it is not already registered or reserved.
- Compare pricing, term lengths, and add-on services like WHOIS privacy from various accredited registrars before selecting one.
- Complete the checkout process, providing accurate registrant contact information and selecting your desired registration period.
- After purchase, verify your contact email to activate the domain and configure your DNS settings to point the domain to your hosting.
Typical uses of .adult domain
The .adult extension is primarily used by websites within the adult entertainment industry to clearly signal their content nature. Businesses, content creators, and platforms choose this TLD to create a distinct and unambiguous online presence, helping users immediately identify the site's purpose. It offers an alternative to using adult-themed content on more general-purpose extensions, allowing for targeted branding and potentially simplifying content filtering. Its use is common among commercial adult websites, forums, and promotional platforms.
Tips for registering .adult domain
- Domains are registered on an annual basis, with common initial terms of one to ten years available through most registrars.
- WHOIS privacy protection services are typically available for this gTLD, allowing registrants to shield their personal contact details from public lookup.
- The registry may enforce specific acceptable use policies, and registrants should review these to ensure compliance with content guidelines.
- Premium domain names under .adult are likely available through the registry or participating registrars, often at higher, non-standard pricing.
Frequently asked questions about .adult domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .adult domain?
As of today, .adult domains start from $51.95/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $208.32/yr across 21 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .adult domains?
NameBeta tracks 21 registrars that support .adult domain registration, with the cheapest option at $51.95/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .adult domain?
The registry for .adult domains is ICM Registry AD, administered by ICM Registry AD LLC.
Who can register a .adult domain?
There are no eligibility restrictions based on location, organization type, or trademark ownership. Any individual or entity can register a .adult domain through an accredited registrar. Registrants should be aware that the extension is intended for adult-themed content and that using it for other purposes may conflict with the registry's positioning. No special documentation is required during the registration process.
Can I transfer a .adult domain between registrars?
Transferring a .adult domain between registrars follows the standard ICANN transfer policy, requiring an authorization code and unlocked status at the current registrar. The process typically takes 5-7 days to complete after initiation. Ensure WHOIS privacy is disabled and the admin email address is accessible to approve the transfer request. There is no mandatory transfer lock period beyond the initial 60 days post-registration.
Are there any content requirements for a .adult website?
While the TLD is intended for adult entertainment, the registry's acceptable use policy outlines the types of permitted content. Registrants must comply with all applicable laws regarding adult material. The registry may have the right to audit domains to ensure they are being used consistently with the TLD's purpose. It is advisable to review the specific policy terms from ICM Registry before developing a site.
How are disputes over .adult domain names handled?
Disputes are subject to the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP), which covers cases of trademark infringement and bad faith registration. Additionally, the registry may have its own sunrise period or trademark claims service mechanisms to protect intellectual property rights. Registrants should conduct a trademark search before registering to avoid potential conflicts. The standard UDRP procedures and fees apply for filing a complaint.
What happens to my .xxx domain with the launch of .adult?
During the application phase, ICM Registry indicated that existing .xxx domain names would be grandfathered, with matching .adult names automatically reserved for the .xxx registrant at no initial cost. To activate the reserved .adult domain, the registrant would need to pay a fee. Current .xxx holders should contact their registrar or the registry directly to confirm the specific process and any associated costs for claiming the corresponding .adult domain.
