The top-level domain (TLD) NRA could reference the National Rifle Association, but as a DNS (Domain Name System) standard, there’s currently no .nra TLD in the global Internet Space. TLDs are the last part of the domain name, after the last dot; they are classified into gTLDs (generic top-level domain like .com, .info, .org), ccTLDs (country-code top-level domains like .uk, .au), and sTLDs (sponsored top-level domains).
As of the time of writing, the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), overseeing body for domain names, has not approved .nra as a recognized TLD, based on its official TLD list. ICANN instituted the New gTLD Program in 2012. This allowed for the application of new gTLDs, leading to a significant expansion of available TLDs – opening up branding options and introducing many more industry-specific and niche TLDs, such as .news or .wedding.
Nevertheless, certain organizations, including the National Rifle Association, could theoretically apply for .nra to become a TLD in the future. For example, Google’s parent company, Alphabet, applied and now owns the .google TLD. Barclay’s Bank has the .barclays and .barclaycard TLDs.
The process is not as simple as merely requesting the preferred TLD, but involves a set procedure with specific criteria to be met, including proving the ability to technically and financially run a domain registry. Applying for a new gTLD (Generic Top-Level Domain) is also expensive; as reported by ICANN, the evaluation fee is $185,000, and running a registry can also cost a significant amount.
In summary, while .nra as a TLD could theoretically be existent, there’s currently no .nra as the ICANN has not approved or issued such domain. However, any eligible organization, like NRA, can apply and own a TLD through the New gTLD Program supervised by ICANN, like what Google or Barclays have done, albeit with certain conditions and financial commitments to ensure the viability of the new TLD.
Sources:
ICANN. (n.d.). List of Top-Level Domains. ICANN. https://data.iana.org/TLD/tlds-alpha-by-domain.txt.
ICANN. (n.d.). New gTLD Program. ICANN. https://newgtlds.icann.org/en/.
ICANN. (n.d.). TLD Application Process FAQs. ICANN. https://newgtlds.icann.org/en/applicants/customer-service/faqs/faqs-en.
