Migrate to the .Gov Domain
Build trust and strengthen cybersecurity by moving to a .gov address.
Increase Constituent Trust by Going .Gov
Organizations at all levels of government are eligible for .gov domains...and only verified U.S. government organizations can register for one. CISA manages .gov domains and verifies the identity of everyone who applies. Having a .gov domain tells the public that your website is an official source of information.
When people see .gov, they know it’s a website they can trust—and it’s free to your organization.
What is a .gov domain?
Like .com, .org, .edu or .net, .gov is a “top-level” domain—the last part of an internet address like Acme.com or StateU.edu.
Unlike the other domains, .gov is reserved exclusively for U.S.-based government organizations. Only verified federal, state, local, tribal or territorial (SLTT) entities can register for it.
CISA manages the .gov domain space and provides technical support, guidance and tools to help SLTTs onboard smoothly and securely.
Why migrate?
Cybercriminals often create fake websites and email addresses to impersonate government agencies and trick residents into sharing personal or financial information. Migrating your website and email to the .gov domain can help protect your organization and constituents from such scams.
Benefits include:
- Helps the public identify your website as official, trusted information
- Reduces the risk of impersonation attacks
- Improves your email security with features like DMARC enforcement
- Comes with support from CISA for domain management and cybersecurity
- Is required to receive State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program or Tribal Cybersecurity Grant Program funds
And it's free!
How do you get started?
It’s easier than you might think—and CISA is here to help.
- Apply at get.gov and follow the instructions.
- Register for a login.gov account if you don’t already have one.
- Submit an application—you’ll need basic verification of your government status.
- Contact CISA (on get.gov) if you need help.
How will CISA support you?
The .gov registry’s team of designers and developers is ready to:
- Help you choose your domain name
- Process your domain request
- Manage your domains
- Provide information on domain security best practices
Printable Tips
Get the “Level Up Your Defenses for SLTTs” best practices in one handy, printable summary.
Get Started
Your website is often the first place people turn for information, services and updates. Ensure your public knows they can trust your web address—get.gov.