# New: 10DLC SMS Regulations

## Release Summary

10DLC (10-Digit Long Code) is a service offered by major US carrier networks specifically designed for A2P (application-to-person) messages using long codes. Currently in a soft roll-out phase by carriers (since 1st May 2021), it will soon become a requirement for all US long numbers to be linked to a registered brand and campaign before any messages can be sent. 

The focus of this release was primarily on creating a new journey on the Clickatell Portal for all our users who want to purchase a US long number, as well as those who have an existing US long number and want to register a brand and campaign to link to the number. 

## ​​​​​​​What is 10DLC**?**

10-digit long code (10DLC) is the new industry-led long code solution for North American application-to-person (A2P) business messaging utilizing a 10-digit phone number. Although similar to the existing long code, 10DLC is a reliable messaging channel with throughput levels suitable for SMS campaigns and is sanctioned by the mobile operators for A2P messaging. 

**US carriers no longer support using A2P SMS messaging over local, unregistered long codes.** For high-volume A2P SMS messaging, US carriers instead offer 10-digit long codes (10DLC). 10DLC is only used in the US, supports both transactional and promotional messaging, and can include any US area code.  

The Campaign Registry guidelines require users to follow industry best practices according to the [CTIA](https://api.ctia.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/190719-CTIA-Messaging-Principles-and-Best-Practices-FINAL.pdf).

## The New US Long Number Application Process

​​​​​​​With the regulatory policy coming into effect from the Campaign Registry, we have enhanced our portal to manage the application process​ accordingly. Users would now need to follow a registration flow to get their long numbers working and functional in the United States. The new change **affects all our existing US long number customer accounts** and is also applicable to **any new US long number purchases**. 

This new process entails three steps:

1. Registration of a brand
2. Registration of a campaign
3. Purchasing and linking numbers

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### For more information:

* Step-by-step walkthrough to [register US long numbers for 10DLC](https://clickatell.gitbook.io/sms-user-guide/10dlc-regulations-us/apply-for-a-10dlc-brand-and-campaign).
* [Frequently asked questions](https://www.clickatell.com/help-center/sms/10dlc-us-long-numbers) about 10DLC.
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