About .lb domain
.lb is a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) delegated to Lebanon. It was introduced in 1993 and is currently operated by the registry Internet Society Lebanon. The TLD was historically managed by the American University of Beirut and an individual manager before entering a caretaker period and being transferred to its current operator in early 2024. Registration is structured at the third level beneath specific second-level categories.
Who can register .lb domain
Registration is restricted. To register a .lb domain, the registrant must have a valid Lebanese postal address. This applies to all available second-level categories like .com.lb, .edu.lb, .net.lb, .org.lb, and .gov.lb. Registration for private individuals is not currently supported, though a proposal for a special category is under consideration. The registry maintains a list of reserved or prohibited domain names that cannot be registered.
How to register .lb domain
- Choose your desired third-level domain name (e.g.,
example.com.lb) and confirm it meets the registry's character requirements: it must be 3-63 characters long, using letters a-z, digits 0-9, or hyphens (which cannot start or end the name).
- Contact an accredited .lb registrar to check the domain's availability and obtain a price quote, as registrations are no longer handled directly by the registry.
- Complete the registration process with the chosen registrar, providing the required documentation that verifies your Lebanese address.
- After purchase, work with your registrar to configure your domain's DNS settings and ensure your contact details remain accurate to comply with the registry's policies.
Typical uses of .lb domain
The .lb extension is primarily used by entities with a presence in Lebanon, serving as their local digital identifier. Businesses operating within the country commonly use .com.lb for commercial websites, while educational institutions, non-profit organizations, and government bodies utilize .edu.lb, .org.lb, and .gov.lb respectively. It offers a clear geographic signal for an audience in Lebanon, distinguishing local entities from global ones using more generic TLDs.
Tips for registering .lb domain
- Registrations are made at the third level under specific second-level domains like .com.lb or .org.lb; direct second-level registrations under .lb are not available.
- The registry enforces a list of reserved or prohibited domain names that cannot be registered.
- Domain names must be between 3 and 63 characters, cannot be all numeric, and cannot start or end with a hyphen.
- Registrants must maintain a valid Lebanese postal address to retain their domain registration.
Frequently asked questions about .lb domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .lb domain?
As of today, .lb domains start from $247.08/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $247.08/yr across 1 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .lb domains?
NameBeta tracks 1 registrars that support .lb domain registration, with the cheapest option at $247.08/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .lb domain?
The registry for .lb domains is LBDR, administered by Internet Society Lebanon.
Who can register a .lb domain?
Eligibility is primarily based on geographic presence. Any entity—commercial, educational, organizational, or governmental—with a verifiable Lebanese postal address can register a domain under the appropriate second-level category like .com.lb or .org.lb. While a proposal exists, private individuals cannot currently register domains. The registry also restricts registration of names on its published prohibited list.
Can I transfer a .lb domain between registrars?
Transfers of .lb domains between accredited registrars are possible, but the process is governed by the registry's policies. To initiate a transfer, you must typically obtain an authorization code from your current registrar and ensure the domain is unlocked. The new registrar will handle the transfer request, which requires the registrant's Lebanese address to remain valid. It's advisable to confirm any specific transfer fees or lock periods with your registrar.
What are the character rules for a .lb domain name?
A .lb domain name must contain between 3 and 63 characters. Permitted characters are the letters a-z, digits 0-9, and hyphens. The name cannot consist entirely of digits, and it cannot begin or end with a hyphen. The first and last character must be a letter or a digit. These rules apply to the third-level label you choose (e.g., the 'example' in example.com.lb).
Are there any reserved names I cannot register?
Yes, the Lebanese Domain Registry maintains an official list of domain names that are reserved or prohibited from registration. This list includes names that are considered offensive, generic, or otherwise protected. It is essential to consult this list through the registry's website or your registrar before attempting to register a domain to ensure your desired name is not restricted.
What happens if I no longer have a Lebanese address?
Maintaining a valid Lebanese postal address is a requirement for holding a .lb domain registration. If your address becomes invalid or you can no longer provide proof of one, you may be in violation of the registry's policies. This could lead to the suspension or eventual cancellation of your domain name. It is crucial to update your registration details promptly if your circumstances change.
