10DLC (10-Digit Long Code) is the registration system US carriers require to send business SMS from local 10-digit numbers. Without it, messages can be blocked or filtered.
Why it exists
Carriers want to prevent spam. With 10DLC, the brand and its use cases are registered and vetted, which improves delivery and allows higher volume than an unregistered number.
What you need to comply
- Register the brand (company details).
- Register the campaign or use case (notifications, OTP, support...).
- Send messages with consent and an opt-out.
At TelHarbor we handle the registration and sending from the platform. See Business SMS and sending via API.
Does it apply to Costa Rica?
10DLC applies to messages sent to the United States. For SMS within Costa Rica and other destinations there are different rules, which we also handle.
Frequently asked questions
Is it mandatory?
For business SMS to the US, effectively yes: without registration messages are usually blocked.
How long does registration take?
It depends on the case; brand and campaign are approved in days. We manage it.