Texting registration (A2P 10DLC) explained in plain English
Why US carriers want businesses to register before texting customers, what you need, and how long it takes.
If you want to text customers from a regular local phone number in the US, the major carriers require you to register first. You will see it called A2P 10DLC registration. It sounds technical, but the idea is simple.
What it is
A2P means "application to person": messages sent from business software to a customer's phone. 10DLC means "10-digit long code", which is just a normal local number. Carriers created this registration to cut down on spam, so they want to know who is texting and why.
Why it matters
Texts from unregistered business numbers may be filtered, blocked or charged higher carrier fees. Registering is how your messages get delivered reliably.
What you register
- Your brand: your business's legal name, EIN (tax ID), address and website. Sole proprietors without an EIN have a separate, more limited option.
- Your campaign: what kind of messages you will send (for example appointment reminders and customer care), sample messages, and how customers agree to receive texts.
What you need before you start
- Legal business name exactly as it appears on your IRS/EIN records
- EIN, business address and a working website
- A privacy policy on your website that explains how you handle phone numbers
- A clear opt-in: for example a checkbox on your contact form, or the customer texting you first
- 2–3 realistic sample messages, including how to opt out ("Reply STOP to unsubscribe")
How long it takes
Review usually takes from a few days to a few weeks. The most common reasons for rejection are a name that does not match tax records, a website without a privacy policy, or a vague description of how customers opt in. If rejected, you fix the issue and resubmit.
What it costs
Carriers and messaging providers charge small one-time and monthly registration fees. These are passed through as usage, separate from your plan.