Domain Name Exception Process

If the requested domain name is not consistent with the standard naming convention outlined in the Internet and Email Domain Management Policy - PDF (290 KB)​, it is considered an exception. 

Information about file formats

The Domain Name Exception ​Process is used to research the requested domain name and determine if the name represents the agency or agency mission. The process also allows agencies the opportunity to justify the request for a name that does not align with the established naming convention.

NOTE: There are no exceptions to the city or county domain name convention. 

How the Process Works

When DIR receives a request for a domain name that does not meet the established naming convention:

• DIR notifies the requesting agency within five business days that the domain name is classified as an exception.
• DIR will review and research the domain name to determine whether it:
  • ​​Is suitable for its intended purpose
  • Is singularly unique
  • Does not present a potential conflict with other agency programs or services
  • Is recognizable by the public​​​
• If the requested domain name successfully meets this criteria, DIR will notify the agency that the name has been approved for use​.
• If the requested domain name does not meet this criteria​:
  • ​DIR will notify the agency that the name will be posted for agency review and comment on the Texas Information Resources Managers email list for a period of five business days.
  • DIR will review response/comments.
  • DIR will notify the requesting agency to confirm whether the name is authorized for agency use​

Standard Naming Conventions

To register for a Texas.gov domain, the domain name must follow the standard naming convention associated to the type of government entity making the request:

• State agency: agencyacronym.texas.gov; for example – dir.texas.gov
• County: countynamecounty.texas.gov; for example – traviscounty.texas.gov
• Municipality: nameofcity.texas.gov; for example – austin.texas.gov