About .auction domain
.auction is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) delegated to the Root Zone on July 18, 2014. It is operated by Donuts Inc., a registry company founded by domain industry veterans. The TLD was introduced as part of ICANN's New gTLD Program and was one of several contested strings resolved through a private agreement between applicants.
Who can register .auction domain
Registration for .auction domains is open to the general public with no eligibility restrictions. Any individual, business, or organization worldwide can register a domain name under this extension. No specific verification, geographic requirements, or documentation is needed to complete a registration.
How to register .auction domain
- Use a domain name registrar's search tool to check if your desired .auction domain is available. Consider searching for variations in case your first choice is already registered.
- Compare pricing, registration term lengths, and bundled services like WHOIS privacy or email forwarding from different accredited registrars that offer the .auction extension.
- Add the domain to your cart and complete the checkout process, providing accurate registrant contact information as required by ICANN.
- After purchase, verify your contact details via email and configure your domain's DNS settings, such as nameservers, to point to your hosting provider.
Typical uses of .auction domain
The .auction extension is commonly used by online auction platforms, estate sale companies, and businesses specializing in liquidations to clearly communicate their service. It is also adopted by traditional auction houses for their digital presence and by individuals running niche collectible sales. Users choose this TLD for its descriptive and memorable quality, which instantly signals a website's purpose related to bidding and sales.
Tips for registering .auction domain
- Domains can typically be registered for a minimum of one year, with options to register for multiple years upfront.
- WHOIS privacy services are generally available for this gTLD, allowing registrants to shield their personal contact information from public view.
- The registry may operate a premium name program where certain desirable .auction domains are sold at higher, non-standard prices.
- Standard ICANN transfer policies apply, but domains may be subject to a 60-day transfer lock following registration or a change in registrant information.
Frequently asked questions about .auction domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .auction domain?
As of today, .auction domains start from $2.49/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $100.54/yr across 33 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .auction domains?
NameBeta tracks 33 registrars that support .auction domain registration, with the cheapest option at $2.49/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .auction domain?
The registry for .auction domains is Identity Digital, administered by Dog Beach, LLC.
Who can register a .auction domain?
There are no restrictions based on location, industry, or trademark ownership. Both commercial entities and private individuals can register a .auction domain. The process is as straightforward as registering any other openly available gTLD.
Can I transfer a .auction domain between registrars?
You can transfer a .auction domain between ICANN-accredited registrars following the standard procedure. Ensure the domain is unlocked at your current registrar, obtain the authorization code (EPP code), and that it is more than 60 days old and not within 60 days of a previous transfer or registrant change. Initiate the transfer request at the gaining registrar to complete the process.
Are there any content restrictions for .auction websites?
The registry does not enforce specific content policies mandating that a .auction website must be used for auction-related activities. Registrants have the same content freedom as with most open gTLDs. However, all domain use must still comply with applicable laws and ICANN's baseline policies.
How are trademark disputes handled for .auction domains?
The .auction gTLD is subject to ICANN's standard Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP). Trademark holders can file a UDRP complaint if they believe a domain was registered and is being used in bad faith. The registry also likely participated in a Sunrise Period, allowing trademark owners early registration priority.
What happens if I forget to renew my .auction domain?
After expiration, the domain typically enters a grace period (often 30-45 days) where you can still renew it at the standard rate. If not renewed, it then enters a redemption grace period where recovery is possible for an additional fee. Finally, if not recovered, the domain is deleted and becomes available for public registration again.
