> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://drepchain.gitbook.io/toolkit/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://drepchain.gitbook.io/toolkit/getting-started/retiring-a-drep.md).

# Retiring A DRep

Find out how you can voluntarily step down from your role as a DRep in the Cardano community

A registered DRep can decide to end the role of being a DRep and transition from active participation in the governance processes to inactive. Retiring is simply a revocation of a credential on the blockchain. 

By submitting a special transaction called a retirement certificate, the DRep signals to the network that it will no longer perform its duties after a specific future epoch.

{% embed url="<https://docs.gov.tools/cardano-govtool/using-govtool/dreps/retire-as-a-drep>" %}

A registered DRep can decide to end the role of being a DRep, and transition from active participation in the governance processes to inactive. Retiring is simply a revocation of a credential on the blockchain.&#x20;

By submitting a special transaction called a retirement certificate, the DRep signals to the network that it will no longer perform its duties after a specific future epoch.

\
A registered DRep can decide to end the role of being a DRep, and transition from active participation in the governance processes to inactive. Retiring is simply a revocation of a credential on the blockchain.&#x20;

By submitting a special transaction called a retirement certificate, the DRep signals to the network that it will no longer perform its duties after a specific future epoch.

### Step-By-Step Instructions On Retiring As A DRep:

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Any DRep who chooses to retire must inform delegators about stepping down, provide a timeline, and suggest alternative DReps.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
The DRep must submit a retirement/unregister certificate (via GovTool or a supported wallet) and confirm their DRep registration deposit is returned in that transaction.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Ada-holders must be aware that their voting power remains intact, but is no longer accounted for by you until they redelegate or choose to vote directly.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Followed by publishing a brief closing note online to delegators explaining the reasons for retiring.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Retired DReps must update off-chain profiles and directories (GovTool page, DRep registries, website, socials) to reflect “retired.”
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
Keep all governance materials and keys safe so you can re-register later with your unique DRep ID if you choose.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

***

{% hint style="info" %}
Would you like to share an extensive feedback? Click [here.](https://forms.gle/8hhhCfn8GhqkjGNC8)
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="info" %}
Would you like to help maintain this toolkit by suggesting and/or contributing some content? Click [here.](https://forms.gle/yk2kqEhEUQEUG88x5)
{% endhint %}