FAQs: SMS short codes

What happens once I submit my short code application?

After, you submit your short code application, we will review it for any missing or unclear information and will contact you if we need additional details. Once we review the application, we submit it for carrier processing. Each carrier has their own review process that they go through with your short code application. Carriers often take 8–12 weeks to review and validate your short code application.

Note: Carriers may ask for additional information or changes even if everything is filled in and passes our initial checks. If carriers request additional information or changes, we will contact you. Please respond promptly as any request for additional information or changes, restarts the 8–12 weeks to review process.

After all parties have reviewed and approved your short code, we will notify you and make your new short code active in your organization.

How long does it take to get a short code?

Short codes take 8–12 weeks to provision. This period allows for review of the application by all carriers for approval. The process can take longer if information is missing on the application or if the provided use cases or information does not conform with best practices and short code requirements. For more information, see the CTIA information in the Regulations section of Set up an SMS short code.

How can I avoid delays in processing my short code application?

Make sure that you have filled in all fields in the application.
Make sure that all information is as accurate and as detailed as possible.
Respond promptly to any requests for additional information or changes, such as requested changes to privacy policy or terms of service.
Review requirements and best practices and ensure that your short code program adheres to the requirements. For more information, see Set up and SMS short code.
Make sure you have a process that requires your customers to opt-in before receiving messaging from your short code service. You must include the opt-in process with your short code application form. For more information, see, SMS short code call to action mock-up requirements.
Make sure you have provided a short code terms of service document. This can be presented via a publicly available URL or via a document attached to your application form.
Make sure that your terms of service provides the required information related to your short code. For more information, see SMS short code terms of service example.
Make sure you have provided a privacy policy document. This can be presented via a publicly available URL or via a document attached to your application form.