About .date domain
.date is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) operated by the registry Famous Four Media (dot Date Limited) and delegated in March 2015. It was applied for as a generic English word, though it received an Early Warning from the Japanese government due to city names. The registry's stated mission was to create a secure and specialized online space for a specific affinity group, supported by a Governance Council of key stakeholders.
Who can register .date domain
Registration for .date domains is open to the general public without restriction. There are no geographic, organizational, or trademark-based requirements to register a name. Any individual, business, or entity worldwide can register a .date domain through an accredited registrar.
How to register .date domain
- Search for your desired .date domain name using a registrar's search tool to check its availability and see if it is offered as a standard or premium name.
- Compare pricing, registration terms, and add-on services like WHOIS privacy or email hosting from different ICANN-accredited registrars that offer the extension.
- Complete the checkout process, providing accurate registrant contact information and selecting your desired registration period, which is typically one year or more.
- After purchase, verify your contact details via email if required and configure your domain's DNS settings, such as nameservers, to point to your hosting provider.
Typical uses of .date domain
The .date extension is most commonly used by websites related to the online dating sector, serving as a dedicated and recognizable space for that industry. Dating services, matchmaking platforms, relationship blogs, and event organizers for singles often choose .date to immediately communicate their site's purpose. This targeted naming helps these businesses stand out in a crowded market and can enhance user trust by clearly signaling the website's focus on dating-related content or services.
Tips for registering .date domain
- Domains are typically registered for a minimum term of one year, with options to register for multiple years in advance.
- WHOIS privacy protection services are generally available for .date domains through most registrars, allowing you to shield personal contact details from public view.
- Be aware that some .date domain names may be classified as "premium" by the registry, meaning they carry a higher annual registration and renewal fee.
- Standard domain transfer policies apply, allowing transfers between registrars after an initial 60-day lock period, provided the domain is not within redemption grace.
Frequently asked questions about .date domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .date domain?
As of today, .date domains start from $4.18/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $50.00/yr across 28 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .date domains?
NameBeta tracks 28 registrars that support .date domain registration, with the cheapest option at $4.18/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .date domain?
The registry for .date domains is dot Date, administered by dot Date Limited.
Who can register a .date domain?
Registration is open to anyone globally, with no need to prove affiliation with the dating industry or any specific organization. Individuals, entrepreneurs, and established companies can all register a .date domain for any lawful purpose. The process is the same as for any other open gTLD, requiring only standard contact information at checkout.
Can I transfer a .date domain between registrars?
Transferring a .date domain follows the standard inter-registrar transfer process governed by ICANN policy. You must initiate the transfer at the gaining registrar, ensure the domain is unlocked and that you have the correct auth code, and then approve the transfer request. Transfers are typically prohibited for the first 60 days after initial registration or a previous transfer.
Are there any content restrictions for .date websites?
The registry's original application emphasized creating a secure environment for the dating sector but did not impose mandatory content restrictions on registrants. Websites under .date can be used for any lawful purpose, though the extension is naturally suited for dating-related content. The registry established a Governance Council for stakeholder input, but this does not equate to enforced content policies for individual domain holders.
How are disputes over .date domain names handled?
Disputes are subject to ICANN's Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP), which covers cases of bad faith registration, such as cybersquatting on trademarks. Additionally, the registry likely implemented Sunrise and Trademark Claims periods during the initial launch to protect trademark holders. For any conflicts, standard procedures through accredited dispute resolution providers apply.
What happens if I don't renew my .date domain on time?
After expiration, the domain typically enters a renewal grace period (often 30 days) where you can still renew it at the standard rate. If not renewed, it may then enter a redemption grace period, where recovery is possible for an additional fee. Finally, if unredeemed, the domain is deleted and returned to the pool of available names for general registration.
