What is .tel?
The .tel is a service that allows individuals and businesses alike to store and manage all their contact information and keywords directly in the DNS without the need to build, host or manage a website. For more information, see .tel for businesses and .tel for individuals.
Why is .tel different than other Top Level Domains (TLDs)?
The value of a .tel domain lies with the ability to host personal (or corporate) contact information directly in the DNS, which can then be universally accessible. This stands in contrast to the typical use of the DNS for other TLDs, in which the DNS only provides a mapping between domain names and IP addresses.
Can I protect my private data?
The .tel enables you to protect your private data, allowing it to be seen only by people you authorize. For more information, please see How do I protect my Private Data.
BUYING .TEL
When can I buy a .tel domain?
Registering .tel domains will occur in three phases: Sunrise, Landrush and General Availability. For more information on each phase see Launch Information.
How can I buy a .tel domain?
You can only purchase your .tel domain online through an ICANN accredited registrar. Telnic will publish a list of all participating registrars at launch.
Can I buy a .tel domain in advance?
No pre-registration is available. Anyone offering advance registration is not authorized to do so.
For what term can I buy a .tel domain?
Typically, registrars will allow you to register domain names for up to 10 years.
How will trademarks be protected?
A preferential registration period called Sunrise will allow trademark owners to protect their intellectual property.
What are the restrictions on a .tel domain?
The minimum number of characters in a .tel domain is 3 and the maximum number is 63 not including the .tel suffix. Every domain must contain at least one letter from a-z or "A to Z" in standard US ASCII script. No domain can begin or end with a hyphen nor can a domain have a hyphen in the 3rd and 4th position. A .tel domain may not consist purely of digits. The .tel naming conventions are described in detail in the Acceptable Use Policy.
Can I transfer or sell a .tel domain name?
You can sell or transfer a .tel domain just as you would with other domain names.
How do I resolve a dispute regarding a .tel domain name?
.tel domain names are subject to the Uniform Domain Name Dispute Resolution Policy (UDRP), which establishes a procedure for resolving many trademark disputes relating to domain names. More information on the (UDRP) is available.