Special Character Limits When Registering a Domain Name
When registering a domain name, there are a few standard rules you should know regarding the use of special characters. Understanding these guidelines will help ensure your domain name is valid and properly formatted.
The Hyphen Rule
The hyphen (-) is the only special character allowed in a domain name. However, there are important restrictions to keep in mind:
- A domain name cannot begin or end with a hyphen.
- You can use hyphens anywhere else within the domain name.
For example:
✅ my-business.co.za — Valid
❌ -mybusiness.co.za — Invalid (starts with a hyphen)
❌ mybusiness-.co.za — Invalid (ends with a hyphen)
Using hyphens in the middle of your domain can be helpful, especially when separating words for clarity and readability.
Numbers in Domain Names
In addition to hyphens, numeric characters are also allowed. You can include any number between 0 and 9 anywhere within your domain name. There are no restrictions on where the numbers can be placed.
For example:
✅ mybusiness123.co.za
✅ 123mybusiness.co.za
Universal Application
These character rules are universal and apply across all domain extensions — whether you’re registering a .com, .co.za, or any other extension. Following these guidelines ensures that your domain name is valid and can be registered without issues.
Final Thoughts
When choosing a domain name, keep these simple rules in mind to avoid registration problems. Stick to letters, numbers, and hyphens — and remember, never start or end your domain with a hyphen.
Happy domain hunting!