About .pl domain
.pl is a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) delegated for Poland. It is operated by the Research and Academic Computer Network (NASK), a Polish R&D organization, and was first introduced in 1990. The registry manages a large and active namespace, allowing registrations directly at the second level or beneath various functional and regional second-level labels. It is a founding member of the Council of European National Top Level Domain Registries (CENTR).
Who can register .pl domain
Registration for .pl domains is open to anyone worldwide, with no restrictions based on citizenship, residency, or business presence in Poland. Both individuals and organizations can register a domain. There are no specific verification or documentation requirements for standard registrations, making it a universally accessible product.
How to register .pl domain
- Search for your desired .pl domain name's availability using a domain registrar's search tool, checking both the direct second-level (example.pl) and popular third-level options (example.com.pl).
- Compare pricing, term lengths, and included services like WHOIS privacy or email hosting from different accredited .pl registrars, as offerings can vary.
- Complete the checkout process with your chosen registrar, providing accurate contact details as required for the WHOIS record.
- After purchase, verify your contact email to activate the domain and configure your DNS settings, such as nameservers, to point the domain to your website or service.
Typical uses of .pl domain
The .pl extension is very popular within Poland and is widely used by businesses, organizations, and individuals connected to the country. Commercial entities often choose .com.pl or the direct .pl for their online presence, while NGOs use .org.pl. It is also commonly used for regional and local projects through its many city and regional subdomains, providing a clear local identity. Users select it to establish a direct and trusted connection with the Polish market or community.
Tips for registering .pl domain
- Domains can be registered for a minimum of one year, with renewal terms also typically being one year.
- WHOIS privacy services are generally available through accredited registrars, allowing you to shield personal contact information from public view.
- The registry has a defined policy to combat DNS abuse, including phishing and malware distribution, which can lead to the suspension of domains involved in such activities.
- Domain names can consist of letters, digits, and hyphens, but a hyphen cannot be at the beginning, end, or simultaneously in both the 3rd and 4th positions of the name.
Frequently asked questions about .pl domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .pl domain?
As of today, .pl domains start from $4.99/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $84.40/yr across 18 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .pl domains?
NameBeta tracks 18 registrars that support .pl domain registration, with the cheapest option at $4.99/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .pl domain?
The registry for .pl domains is Research and Academic Computer Network.
Who can register a .pl domain?
There are no geographic or organizational barriers to registering a .pl domain; it is a product available to a global audience. Whether you are an individual, a company, or a non-profit organization located anywhere in the world, you can register a .pl domain name. The process does not require you to submit proof of address or a local business registration, simplifying the acquisition for international buyers.
Can I transfer a .pl domain between registrars?
Transferring a .pl domain between accredited registrars follows a standard process. You must first unlock the domain at your current registrar and obtain an authorization code (EPP code). The transfer is initiated at the gaining registrar, and you must confirm the request via email. It's important to ensure the domain is not within 60 days of its initial registration or a previous transfer, as it may be locked during this period.
Are there any special rules for domain name composition?
Yes, there are specific technical rules. A .pl domain name can only contain Latin letters, digits, and the hyphen character. The hyphen cannot be placed at the very start or end of the name. Crucially, a hyphen cannot be in both the 3rd and 4th character positions at the same time, with the sole exception being internationalized domain names (IDNs) that use the 'xn--' prefix.
What dispute resolution policies apply to .pl domains?
The .pl registry utilizes two primary dispute resolution paths. For entities based in Poland, disputes can be resolved through the PIIT arbitration court. For foreign entities, an expedited arbitration procedure administered by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) is available. These mechanisms provide avenues to address conflicts over domain names, such as trademark infringement cases.
Can I register a .pl domain for a specific Polish city or region?
Yes, the registry offers a wide array of regional second-level domains. You can register names under labels like .warszawa.pl, .krakow.pl, or .slask.pl, among over 100 others. These are open for registration under the same general rules as the primary .pl domain, allowing you to create a strong geographic identifier for a local business or community project.
