About .tr domain
.tr is a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) delegated for Turkey. It is operated by TRABİS, which is run by the Information and Communication Technologies Authority of Turkey. The extension was introduced in 1990. It is a structured namespace with registrations available at both the second level (e.g., example.tr) and under specific third-level categories.
Who can register .tr domain
Registration is open to individuals and legal entities, but there is a core geographic restriction. The registrant must be located in Turkey or have an official representative within the country. For certain third-level domains like .gov.tr or .edu.tr, additional verification is required to prove affiliation with the corresponding government body or educational institution.
How to register .tr domain
- Search for your desired .tr domain name's availability through an accredited .tr registrar, checking both the second level and relevant third-level categories like .com.tr or .org.tr.
- Compare pricing and terms from different registrars, noting that registration periods are typically annual, and inquire about add-on services like DNS management.
- Complete the checkout process with your chosen registrar, providing accurate contact information as it will be verified.
- Finalize the registration by submitting any required documentation to prove your local presence in Turkey or your eligibility for a restricted third-level domain.
Typical uses of .tr domain
The .tr extension is predominantly used by entities with a direct connection to Turkey. Businesses operating within the country frequently use .com.tr to signal their local commercial presence, while organizations and NGOs often opt for .org.tr. Individuals and professionals, such as lawyers and doctors, utilize specific subdomains like .av.tr and .dr.tr for personal or professional websites, choosing this TLD to establish geographic relevance and trust with a Turkish audience.
Tips for registering .tr domain
- Registrations are made on an annual basis, with the standard minimum term being one year.
- The registry requires registrants to maintain accurate and up-to-date WHOIS contact information.
- Domain names must be between 2 and 63 characters and can only contain letters, numbers, and hyphens.
- Specific third-level domains like .gov.tr or .edu.tr have strict eligibility criteria and are reserved for verified institutions.
- Dispute resolution policies are in place to handle conflicts over domain names.
Frequently asked questions about .tr domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .tr domain?
As of today, .tr domains start from $21.99/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $190.00/yr across 5 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .tr domains?
NameBeta tracks 5 registrars that support .tr domain registration, with the cheapest option at $21.99/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .tr domain?
The registry for .tr domains is BTK, administered by Bilgi Teknolojileri ve İletişim Kurumu (BTK).
Who can register a .tr domain?
While open to both individuals and companies, a key requirement is a local presence. You must either be physically located in Turkey or appoint an official local representative. For specialized third-level domains, such as those for lawyers (.av.tr) or schools (.k12.tr), you must provide documentation proving your professional qualification or institutional status.
Can I transfer a .tr domain between registrars?
Transferring a .tr domain between accredited registrars is generally possible. The process typically requires obtaining an authorization code from your current registrar and ensuring the domain is not within a lock period post-registration or renewal. You must also confirm that your contact details and local representative information remain valid to satisfy the registry's ongoing eligibility checks.
What documentation is needed to register a restricted third-level domain like .av.tr or .edu.tr?
Registration for restricted categories requires submitting proof of eligibility to the registry via your registrar. For .av.tr, you would need to provide documentation showing you are a licensed lawyer or law firm. For .edu.tr or .k12.tr, official verification from the relevant Turkish education authorities is required to confirm your institutional status.
How does the dispute resolution process work for .tr domains?
The registry has a defined dispute resolution policy to address conflicts, such as trademark infringement or bad-faith registration. Complainants can file a case, and it will be evaluated based on established criteria. This process is separate from the universal UDRP but serves a similar purpose for the .tr namespace.
Can I register a .tr domain directly at the second level (e.g., example.tr)?
Yes, direct second-level registrations (like example.tr) are available. The registry conducted a phased launch for these, and they are now allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to the same character rules and geographic presence requirements as third-level registrations.
What happens if I fail to maintain a local presence in Turkey after registration?
Maintaining a valid local presence is an ongoing requirement. If you no longer have a local address or representative, you may be in violation of the registry's policies. This could lead to the suspension or cancellation of your domain name, as the registry may audit registrant information for compliance.
