10DLC (a.k.a., 10-digit long code), is a phrase that’s been popping up everywhere recently. This new method of application-to-person (A2P) messaging has taken the telecommunications industry by storm, with carriers like AT&T going so far as to migrate all long code SMS and MMS communications to new 10DLC services.
Below is a list of a frequently asked questions that can help save you time when researching this new A2P service and the requirements set forth by the federal government, mobile network operators (MNOs, a.k.a. carriers), and communication service providers (CSPs):
What is 10DLC?
For more information, read What Is 10DLC?
10DLC is shorthand for 10-Digit Long Code, which is a form of A2P messaging that relies on local long codes to send A2P messages. 10DLC numbers are similar to text-enabled toll-free numbers but use local phone numbers instead of 800 numbers, have higher throughputs, and more.
Why is 10DLC being introduced?
New federal laws and regulations have created the need for new and improved call-authentication technology and phone number registration, a need that major carriers intend to solve with 10DLC. This was done primarily with the intention of putting a stop to the tens of millions of scam and spam robocalls placed each year in the United States.
Who do the 10DLC requirements affect?
The new 10DLC requirements will affect all businesses that use A2P messaging, no matter the size of the business or the number of messages being sent. That includes non-profit organizations, for-profit businesses, charities, and every other form of non-personal messaging within North America.
Do 10DLC requirements affect person-to-person (P2P) communications too or just A2P?
No. The laws and regulations pertaining to the new 10DLC rollout do not apply to standard person-to-person messaging.
Does my business use A2P or P2P messaging?
P2P usually refers to communication between Customers and other Customers, whereas A2P refers to communication between Customers and businesses. If your business is texting its Customers, that is A2P messaging and must be registered under the new 10DLC regulations.
What if I have a phone number that I use for P2P and A2P messaging?
A common example of this is when small business owners use their personal phones to keep in touch with Customers. Personal texting from that phone would qualify as P2P messaging, whereas business texting would qualify as A2P messaging. Another example would be if you used the same phone number for intra-office communications and external communications.
If a phone is being used to send both P2P and A2P messages, you must still register it under 10DLC campaign rules regulating the relevant A2P use cases.
When will 10DLC requirements go into full effect?
10DLC services have been rolling out piece by piece since Verizon’s introduction of its version of the technology in early 2020. Since then, other carriers have followed suit. In March of 2021, T-Mobile, Sprint, and Cellular Wireless launched their own 10DLC registration programs. As time goes on, more MNOs will continue to announce their 10DLC programs.
Each carrier sets their own registration timeline. To avoid any potential fees or fines, Mongotel recommends registering your brands and campaigns as soon as possible.
What is The Campaign Registry (TCR)?
The Campaign Registry is the centralized hub for the registration of brands and campaigns with MNOs and CSPs under the new 10DLC rules. It was established to streamline the registration process and works with carriers to standardize the A2P 10DLC messaging environment.
This is where you will need to register your brands and campaigns.
Is registration required for 10DLC numbers?
All organizations using 10DLC for A2P messaging must register their numbers in a registration database li