Fusion Connect Glossary

What Is 10DLC Registration | Definition and Business Messaging Use

Written by Fusion Connect | Nov 25, 2025 4:30:32 PM

10DLC registration is required for businesses that send SMS messages to U.S. mobile users using standard 10-digit phone numbers. It allows mobile carriers to verify the sender and the purpose of the messaging.

The registration process involves submitting brand and campaign details to The Campaign Registry, which mobile carriers use to manage and track message traffic. This step helps reduce unwanted messages and supports higher message throughput for approved campaigns.

Companies that send A2P (application-to-person) messages through platforms or software must complete this process to avoid message filtering and potential penalties. Registration is a key part of meeting carrier requirements for business messaging.

 

Why 10DLC Registration Matters for Business

For businesses that rely on high-volume text messaging, 10DLC registration is a requirement that affects both performance and credibility. Registered 10-digit long codes allow companies to present a local, trusted presence to customers while following the rules set by major carriers.

Beyond compliance, registration gives businesses access to verified messaging channels that reduce support issues and protect brand reputation. This is especially relevant for campaigns involving opt-in alerts, appointment reminders, notifications or two-way replies.

10DLC compliance also supports:

  • Verified brand identity and approved campaign use cases
  • Consistent message delivery during peak periods
  • Options for campaign vetting, pricing tiers and throughput levels
  • Use of messaging services across SMS and MMS formats

The 10DLC registration process may require a tax ID, campaign details and working with aCampaign Service Provider (CSP). While registration fees apply, these steps are part of maintaining a stable and accountable A2P messaging program.

Who Needs to Register / When It Applies

Registration is required for any business, nonprofit or sole proprietor using 10-digit long codes to send A2P messaging. This includes organizations that use texting platforms or software to send notifications, reminders or marketing content.

You must register if you're sending automated messages from a local number to groups of recipients. This includes use cases such as payment alerts, status updates or event notifications. Short codes and toll-free numbers are managed separately and follow different rules.

Each 10DLC campaign must be registered with a clear use case through a Campaign Service Provider (CSP) and The Campaign Registry (TCR). Required details often include a valid tax ID, campaign description and reply handling features like unsubscribe or reply STOP.

Organizations that operate multiple messaging campaigns or brands should complete separate campaign registrations to meet carrier expectations and avoid disruptions.

What “Registration” Means

10DLC registration involves submitting verified business and campaign details to The Campaign Registry (TCR) to authorize A2P 10DLC messaging. The process helps carriers assign message throughput and manage how traffic is classified across mobile networks.

There are two parts to the process: brand registration and campaign registration. Brand registration includes your business name, EIN and contact information. Campaign registration outlines how your business uses messaging, including what types of messages are sent and how users interact with them.

Typical campaign registration details include:

  • A defined use case (such as appointment reminders or service alerts)
  • Sample messages with opt-in and unsubscribe instructions
  • A working business number and response keywords like STOP or HELP

Registration may need to be updated if your business changes platforms, adds new campaigns or modifies its messaging content. Keeping this data accurate helps avoid disruptions and supports higher throughput when sending messages from approved 10DLC numbers.

What Happens If You Don’t Comply to 10DLC Registration

Businesses that send A2P messages without completing 10DLC registration face message filtering, traffic limits or carrier-imposed surcharges. Unregistered traffic is often subject to low daily volume caps that restrict delivery, especially for high-frequency use cases.

Automated systems that rely on reliable message delivery, including those handling MMS messages or integrated customer workflows, may experience failures that impact operations. Messages may not reach intended users, triggering support issues or service gaps.

Repeated violations can result in full suspension of messaging access, blacklisting of 10-digit code numbers or carrier account reviews. Businesses can avoid these disruptions by completing the registration form with accurate details, including a valid employer identification number.