How to register a .CA domain name
It is not difficult to register a .CA domain name. You have to find out if the name you want is available, choose a CIRA Certified Registrar that will register the name for you, and confirm the registration details with CIRA. You’ll find additional information about registration in the following Frequently Asked Questions.
How do I register a new .CA domain name?
To register a new .CA domain name, you must contact a CIRA Certified Registrar.
- Select a CIRA Certified Registrar.
- Choose a .CA domain name and check whether it is available, using the WHOIS search tool located in the upper right-hand corner of this page.
- Specify your options and register the .CA domain name with the Registrar. If you do not yet have a CIRA Registrant account, you will have to confirm the Registrant Agreement before the registration process can be completed.
How can I find out if a name is available?
CIRA maintains a WHOIS look-up system (WHOIS) on this site where you can check whether a specific domain name is available. There is no cost for this service.
How can I find a Registrar?
You can find a Registrar in the list of Certified Registrars on this website.
Can I register a .CA domain name directly with CIRA and avoid dealing with Registrars?
No. Registrants must go through CIRA Certified Registrars to register a .CA domain name.
What is the fee for registering a new .ca domain name?
The fee for a new .ca domain name registration can vary. The fee is paid to the Registrar, not to CIRA, and Registrars set their own fees for services they provide to Registrants.
Do .CA Registrants have portability of their domain name registrations between CIRA Certified Registrars?
Yes. CIRA's rules allow a Registrant to change Registrars. Registrants can transfer their domain name to another Registrar once the registration is more than 30 days old. A domain name cannot be transferred during its first 30 days.
How can I transfer my registration from one Registrar to another?
To transfer a registration, you must choose a new Certified Registrar. The new Registrar will initiate the request with CIRA for you. In accordance with CIRA's registration rules, your Administrative Contact must confirm the request.
How are domain name requests approved?
Domain name requests are approved through CIRA’s system on a first-come, first-served basis.
How can I modify the registration information contained in WHOIS?
To modify registration information, please contact your Certified Registrar.
