About .golf domain
.golf is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) operated by Donuts (Lone Falls, LLC). It was delegated to the root zone in March 2015 and entered General Availability in July of that year. The TLD was acquired by Donuts through an ICANN auction process, beating several other applicants. As a product, it is an open, unrestricted domain extension sold through standard registrars.
Who can register .golf domain
Registration for .golf domains is open to any individual or organization worldwide. There are no geographic, trademark, or membership-based restrictions for obtaining a domain. Anyone can register a .golf name through an accredited domain registrar without needing to provide special documentation or prove affiliation with the sport. It is a completely open TLD.
How to register .golf domain
- Search for your desired .golf domain name on a registrar's website to check its availability and see if it is offered as a standard or premium name.
- Compare pricing, registration term lengths, and add-on services like WHOIS privacy or email hosting across different registrars before selecting one.
- Complete the checkout process, which typically requires providing accurate registrant contact information and selecting a registration period, often starting at one year.
- After purchase, verify your contact email to activate the domain and configure its DNS settings through your registrar's control panel to point it to your website or service.
Typical uses of .golf domain
The .golf extension is commonly used by businesses, organizations, and individuals directly connected to the sport of golf. Golf courses, equipment manufacturers, tournament organizers, coaches, and retail shops frequently choose .golf to create immediate, topic-relevant web addresses. It offers a clear, memorable alternative to generic extensions like .com, instantly signaling content related to the sport. Clubs and associations also use it for member portals and event sites.
Tips for registering .golf domain
- Domains can typically be registered for a minimum of one year, with multi-year registrations available.
- WHOIS privacy protection is generally offered for this TLD by most registrars, allowing you to shield personal contact details from public view.
- Be aware that some desirable .golf domain names may be classified as "premium" by the registry, carrying a higher annual registration and renewal fee.
- Standard domain transfer policies apply, but a 60-day transfer lock is often placed on new registrations or after certain contact changes.
Frequently asked questions about .golf domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .golf domain?
As of today, .golf domains start from $3.99/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $157.39/yr across 33 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .golf domains?
NameBeta tracks 33 registrars that support .golf domain registration, with the cheapest option at $3.99/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .golf domain?
The registry for .golf domains is Identity Digital, administered by Binky Moon, LLC.
Who can register a .golf domain?
Anyone globally can register a .golf domain without restrictions. You do not need to be a golf professional, own a related business, or provide any credentials. The process is identical to registering a .com or other open gTLD, simply requiring you to choose an accredited registrar and complete the standard checkout with valid contact information.
Can I transfer a .golf domain between registrars?
Transferring a .golf domain between registrars follows standard ICANN transfer procedures. You must first unlock the domain at your current registrar and obtain an authorization code (EPP code). Initiate the transfer at the gaining registrar, and approve the transfer request via email. Transfers typically extend your registration by one year, but note that domains cannot be transferred within 60 days of initial registration or a previous transfer.
Are there any content restrictions for .golf websites?
No, the .golf registry does not enforce specific content policies mandating that websites must be about golf. While the extension is marketed for the sport, registrants are not audited or required to publish golf-related content. Standard ICANN policies regarding illegal activity still apply, but there are no thematic restrictions unique to this TLD.
What happens if I don't renew my .golf domain on time?
If a .golf domain expires, it typically enters a grace period of around 30 days where you can still renew it at the standard rate. After that, it may enter a redemption period for an additional 30 days, during which you can recover it for an additional fee. If not recovered, the domain is eventually deleted and released back into the pool for public registration.
Can I register trademark-protected names during a .golf Sunrise period?
The .golf Sunrise period occurred prior to its public launch in 2015. Trademark holders had an exclusive opportunity to register names matching their validated trademarks. Today, all registrations occur on a first-come, first-served basis in General Availability, though trademark owners can still use the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP) to address cybersquatting.
