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Frequently asked questions about A2P messaging compliance in the US, including 10DLC registration and toll-free verification.

What is required for A2P messaging in the US?

US carriers require registration or verification for A2P (Application-to-Person) messaging:
Number TypeRegistrationThroughputBest For
10DLCBrand + Campaign3.75-15+ MPSGeneral A2P
Toll-FreeVerification25 MPSHigh volume, 2FA
Short CodeApplication100+ MPSMarketing, alerts

What is 10DLC?

10DLC (10-Digit Long Code) is the standard for A2P messaging on local US numbers. For detailed registration instructions (brand registration, campaign registration, linking numbers), see 10DLC Registration Guide.

Why did my brand registration fail?

Review the feedback from TCR (The Campaign Registry) and correct the identified issues before resubmitting. Common issues include:
  • Mismatched business name or EIN
  • Invalid website URL
  • Incomplete business information

Why was my campaign registration declined?

Review the feedback from TCR/carrier, correct the identified issues, and resubmit with updated information. Common reasons:
  • Unclear use case description
  • Sample messages don’t match declared use case
  • Missing opt-in/opt-out information

How can users opt in to receive messages in the US?

Supported Opt-In Methods

MethodDescription
Web formUser enters phone number on website
KeywordUser texts keyword to your number
Paper formPhysical sign-up sheet
VerbalPhone call consent (recorded)
Point of saleIn-person consent at checkout

What is the Toll-Free Verification Process?

  1. Purchase toll-free number
  2. Submit verification request
  3. Carrier reviews submission
  4. Receive approval or rejection feedback

How to submit Toll-free verification on the Plivo console?

  1. Navigate to Messaging > Toll-free Verification
  2. Click Submit Toll-free Verification
  3. Select profile
  4. Complete required fields
  5. Submit

Required Information

FieldDescription
Business nameLegal business name
Business typeDirect brand or ISV/Reseller
Use caseHow you’ll use messaging
Sample messagesExample message content
Opt-in methodHow users consent
WebsiteBusiness website

Why was my Toll-free verification request rejected, and how can I fix it?

StatusMeaningAction
ApprovedReady to sendBegin messaging
RejectedIssues identifiedReview feedback, resubmit
Review the feedback, provide clear and accurate business information, and resubmit.

What are the best practices for Toll-free verification?

  • Provide clear, accurate business information
  • Include realistic sample messages
  • Document opt-in methods clearly
  • Respond promptly to carrier inquiries

What about Short Codes?

For high-volume messaging, see Short Codes for complete details on:
  • US, Canada, Brazil, and New Zealand short codes
  • Application process and requirements
  • Pricing and throughput
  • Compliance and audits

What is the throughput comparison for US numbers?

Number TypeRegistration StatusSMS Throughput
Long CodeUnregistered1 MPS, 2,000/day limit
Long Code10DLC Low Volume0.2-0.75 MPS
Long Code10DLC Standard3.75-15+ MPS
Toll-FreeVerified25 MPS
Short CodeApproved100+ MPS

What is the throughput for Canada numbers?

Number TypeSMS Throughput
Long Code15/minute
Toll-Free25/second
Short Code10/second

Why are my messages being filtered?

  • Verify registration is complete
  • Check message content for spam triggers
  • Ensure proper opt-in documentation

Why is my throughput low?

  • Complete 10DLC registration for higher limits
  • Consider toll-free or short code for high volume

How long does 10DLC registration take?

StageTypical Duration
Brand registration1-3 business days
Campaign vetting3-7 business days
Number linkingImmediate after campaign approval
Factors affecting timeline:
  • Brand trust score affects vetting time
  • Special use cases (political, charity) may require additional review
  • Incomplete submissions delay processing

Can I send messages before 10DLC registration is complete?

Yes, but with significant limitations:
  • Unregistered throughput: 1 MPS, 2,000 messages/day limit
  • Higher filtering risk: Carriers may block unregistered traffic
  • No carrier support: Issues cannot be escalated without registration
Complete registration to unlock full throughput and carrier support.

How do I set up 10DLC for ISV/multi-tenant use cases?

If you provide messaging services to multiple end-customers (ISV model):
  1. Register as ISV/Reseller during brand registration
  2. Create campaigns per end-customer or use a single shared campaign
  3. Document each customer’s use case clearly
See ISV Guidelines for detailed requirements.

Why are toll-free messages being blocked?

Common reasons:
  • Verification not complete or rejected
  • Content flagged by carrier
  • Sending to landlines or non-mobile numbers
  • High complaint rate from recipients
Resolution:
  1. Check verification status in console
  2. Review recent message content
  3. Ensure proper opt-in documentation
  4. Contact support with message UUIDs for investigation

Do I need to add brand name to toll-free messages?

While not strictly mandatory, carriers strongly recommend including your brand name in toll-free messages:
  • Improves deliverability
  • Reduces spam complaints
  • Builds recipient trust
Example: “ACME Corp: Your order #12345 has shipped.”