About .pro domain
.pro is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) operated by Identity Digital (formerly Afilias). It was delegated by ICANN and launched in 2004, originally with strict eligibility requirements for certified professionals. A significant policy change in November 2015 made the extension unrestricted and open for general registration. The TLD is marketed as a professional-grade domain product available through standard commercial registrars.
Who can register .pro domain
Since November 16, 2015, .pro domains have been unrestricted and are available for registration by anyone globally. There are no longer any requirements to provide professional credentials, government certifications, or proof of licensing. This open policy applies to all second-level .pro registrations, making the TLD as accessible as other major gTLDs like .com or .net.
How to register .pro domain
- Search for your desired .pro domain name on any ICANN-accredited registrar's website to check its availability. Many registrars offer bulk search tools to compare multiple names at once.
- Compare pricing, registration term options, and add-on services like WHOIS privacy protection across different registrars. .pro domains typically have standard annual registration terms, but some registrars may offer multi-year discounts.
- Complete the checkout process by adding the domain to your cart and providing the necessary registrant contact information. Ensure your email address is accurate, as it will be used for verification and renewal notices.
- Verify your contact details via email if required and configure your domain's DNS settings, such as nameservers, to point to your hosting provider. Your domain will be active once these steps are complete.
Typical uses of .pro domain
The .pro extension is commonly chosen by individuals and businesses to convey expertise and credibility. While originally intended for certified professionals like lawyers, accountants, engineers, and medical practitioners, its unrestricted status now attracts a wider range of users, including consultants, freelancers, and technology service providers. These registrants select .pro to signal a professional, high-quality service, differentiating themselves in competitive markets. The TLD is also used for professional portfolios, industry blogs, and business tools.
Tips for registering .pro domain
- The TLD became unrestricted for all registrants on November 16, 2015, eliminating previous professional verification requirements.
- Standard registration and renewal terms apply, typically on an annual basis, with pricing set by individual registrars.
- WHOIS privacy services are generally available for .pro domains through most registrars, helping to protect registrant contact information.
- The TLD is subject to standard ICANN transfer policies, including a 60-day transfer lock following registration or a previous transfer.
- Dispute resolution for .pro domains is governed by the standard UDRP (Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy).
Frequently asked questions about .pro domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .pro domain?
As of today, .pro domains start from $2.49/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $50.33/yr across 37 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .pro domains?
NameBeta tracks 37 registrars that support .pro domain registration, with the cheapest option at $2.49/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .pro domain?
The registry for .pro domains is Identity Digital, administered by Identity Digital Limited.
Who can register a .pro domain?
Since November 2015, there are no eligibility restrictions for registering a .pro domain. Any individual, business, or organization worldwide can register one without needing to prove professional credentials or licensing. This open policy simplifies the registration process, making it identical to registering more common extensions like .com.
Can I transfer a .pro domain between registrars?
.pro domains can be transferred between ICANN-accredited registrars following the standard inter-registrar transfer process. You will need to obtain an authorization code (EPP code) from your current registrar and initiate the transfer at the gaining registrar. Transfers are typically subject to a 60-day lock after initial registration or a previous transfer to prevent unauthorized moves.
What was the original purpose of .pro, and how has it changed?
.pro was originally launched in 2004 as a restricted TLD exclusively for government-certified professionals in fields like law, medicine, engineering, and accounting. Registrants had to provide proof of licensing. This policy was fundamentally changed in November 2015 when the registry removed all eligibility restrictions, transitioning .pro to an open, unrestricted gTLD available to anyone.
Are there any special dispute policies for .pro domains?
Yes, in addition to the standard UDRP used for most gTLDs, .pro historically operated under a Qualification Challenge Policy (QCP). While the QCP was designed for the era of restricted registration to challenge a registrant's professional eligibility, its practical application today is minimal since the TLD is now unrestricted. For trademark disputes, the UDRP remains the primary mechanism.
Can I register a .pro domain for multiple years?
Yes, you can typically register a .pro domain for a period of one to ten years at the time of initial registration, depending on the registrar's offerings. It is advisable to check the maximum registration term allowed by your chosen registrar and consider enabling auto-renewal to prevent accidental expiration of your domain.
What happens if I don't renew my .pro domain on time?
Like other gTLDs, .pro domains enter a standard expiration lifecycle if not renewed. This includes a grace period (often 30-45 days) where you can usually renew at the standard rate, followed by a redemption period where recovery is possible for an additional fee. After these periods, the domain is deleted and becomes available for public registration again.
