TL;DR
In 2025, the US government plans to allow eligible individuals and organizations to register free locality domains ending in .city.state.us. This initiative aims to enhance local online presence and digital infrastructure, leveraging existing government policies and private sector services.
The US government has announced that starting in 2025, eligible individuals and organizations will be able to register free locality domains ending in .city.state.us, aiming to improve local digital infrastructure and online presence.
The initiative allows US citizens, permanent residents, and US-based organizations to register locality domains at no cost. Registration involves choosing a locality-specific domain, obtaining DNS nameservers—currently available through Amazon Lightsail—and submitting a formal registration form. The process requires verification of US residency or organizational presence, with government policy restricting initial registration to government agencies, though this may expand. The infrastructure relies on existing government contracts and private sector services, with Amazon Lightsail providing free DNS hosting for these domains. The registration process involves filling out a detailed form, including organization details and DNS server information, then submitting it to the delegated registrar for approval. Once registered, owners can point their DNS records to web hosting services or other servers, enabling local entities to establish online presences easily and affordably.
Why It Matters
This development could significantly lower barriers for local governments, community organizations, and individuals to establish online identities. It may enhance local digital engagement, support small businesses, and improve access to local government services. By offering free domains, the initiative aims to foster digital inclusion and strengthen community connectivity across the US.
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Background
Locality domains have existed since 1992, maintained under government contracts. Currently, registration is limited mainly to government agencies, with private registration restricted by policy. The plan for free registration in 2025 builds on existing infrastructure, including delegated registrars and DNS hosting services like Amazon Lightsail. The policy change represents a shift toward broader access, though details about expansion beyond government agencies remain uncertain.
“Starting in 2025, eligible US residents and organizations will be able to register locality domains at no cost, supporting local digital growth.”
— US Department of Commerce spokesperson
“We will continue to provide free DNS hosting for locality domains registered through the official process.”
— Amazon Lightsail support team
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What Remains Unclear
It is not yet clear whether registration will be open to private individuals and organizations outside government or how quickly the process will scale. Details about potential expansion to non-government entities and the full scope of eligible users remain under development. Additionally, the exact timeline for implementation and any potential policy adjustments are still uncertain.
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What’s Next
In early 2025, the government is expected to publish official registration procedures and open the registration portal. Stakeholders should monitor updates from the Department of Commerce and delegated registrars. Technical support from private providers like Amazon Lightsail will continue to be available to assist new domain owners in setting up DNS and web hosting.
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Key Questions
Who is eligible to register a free locality domain?
US citizens, permanent residents, and organizations incorporated or with a bona fide presence in the US are eligible, according to the official policy.
How do I register a locality domain?
You need to choose an available locality-specific domain, obtain DNS hosting through providers like Amazon Lightsail, fill out the registration form, and submit it to the delegated registrar. Details will be provided in the official registration guide in 2025.
Will private individuals be able to register these domains?
Initially, registration is restricted mainly to government agencies. Broader access for private individuals and organizations is planned but has not yet been confirmed.
What are the benefits of registering a locality domain?
Locality domains can enhance online visibility for communities, support local businesses, and improve access to government and community services online.
What infrastructure supports these domains?
The infrastructure relies on delegated registrars, DNS hosting services like Amazon Lightsail, and existing government policies governing locality domain registration.
