This document outlines the requirements for successful SMS carrier registration (A2P 10DLC) for a local number or a 1-800 number.
Important Timing
Registration typically takes 4 to 6 weeks. If any information is missing or incorrect, carriers will reject the application, and the 4–6 week clock restarts upon resubmission.
Official Business Identity
Ensure the following business information is accurate and verifiable:
IRS Match (Legal Business Name): The Legal Business Name must exactly match the name on the IRS SS-4 or CP 575 letter (e.g., if the IRS says "Pizza Corp," do not submit "Pizza Corp LLC").
EIN (Tax ID): The Tax ID must be correct and belong to the business name listed above.
Physical Address: A physical street address must be provided; P.O. Boxes are not permitted.
Active Website: The business website must be publicly accessible (not password-protected) and clearly display the business name or logo.
Website Legal Links
Your website must include a Privacy Policy and Terms of Service that meet carrier standards. Both links must be easily found in your website's footer.
Privacy Policy: Must contain a "No Mobile Sharing" clause, stating that mobile numbers will not be shared or sold.
Terms of Service: Must clearly explain how users can interact with the service using STOP (to opt-out) and HELP (for support) commands.
Required Opt-In Compliance
The sign-up form on your website must meet these strict compliance rules:
Unchecked Opt-In Box: The SMS checkbox must be unchecked by default (not preselected).
Required Disclosure: The full disclosure text (covering Message & Data rates, frequency, etc.) must be visible directly next to the checkbox.
Linked Policies: The disclosure text must include direct hyperlinks to your Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.
Required Opt-In Language
Use this exact language next to your sign-up checkbox:
[ ] I agree to receive recurring automated marketing text messages (e.g., cart reminders) at the phone number provided. Consent is not a condition of purchase. Message & data rates may apply. Message frequency varies. Reply HELP for help and STOP to cancel. View our [Link to Privacy Policy] and [Link to Terms of Service].
Legal Review Highly Recommended
While this checklist covers the technical requirements for carrier registration (A2P 10DLC), it does not constitute legal advice. SMS laws (like the TCPA) are strict. We strongly recommend you have a legal professional review your final Privacy Policy, Terms of Use, and Opt-In flow to ensure you are fully protected.
SMS Registration Checklist
SMS Registration Checklist
Official Identity
[ ] IRS Match: My Legal Business Name matches my IRS SS-4 or CP 575 letter exactly (e.g., if the IRS says "Pizza Corp," do not write "Pizza Corp LLC").
[ ] EIN: My Tax ID is correct and belongs to the business name listed above.
[ ] No P.O. Box: I have provided a physical street address.
[ ] Active Website: My website is public (not behind a password) and shows my business name/logo.
Website Legal Links
[ ] Privacy Policy: Does it contain the "No Mobile Sharing" clause?
[ ] Terms of Service: Does it explain "STOP" and "HELP" commands?
[ ] Accessibility: Both links are easily found in the footer of my website.
Opt-In Compliance
[ ] The "Unchecked" Box: My website form includes an SMS checkbox that is unchecked by default.
[ ] Required Disclosure: The full disclosure text (Message & Data rates, etc.) is visible right next to the checkbox.
[ ] Linked Policies: The disclosure text includes direct links to my Privacy Policy and Terms.