FAQ: A2P 10DLC Verification/Requirements
A2P 10DLC Texting Approval
What is A2P 10DLC, and why do I need it?
A2P 10DLC is a carrier requirement that verifies businesses sending application-based text messages. It helps protect customers from spam and improves message deliverability.
How long does approval take?
Carrier review typically takes 10–15 business days. In some cases, it may take longer if carriers request clarification or changes.
Can I send messages while approval is pending?
Messaging may be limited or paused until approval is completed. This helps ensure compliance and avoid carrier filtering.
What information do I need to provide?
Chekkit may request:
- Legal business name
- Website URL
- Terms of Use URL
- Privacy Policy URL
- Business address
- Description of how customers opt in to texts
- Sample messages
All information must be accurate and consistent.
Why was my campaign rejected?
Common reasons include:
- Business name mismatch across fields
- Missing or unclear opt-in language
- Website not working or missing disclosures
- Sample messages are missing opt-out instructions
If this happens, Chekkit will guide you through correcting and resubmitting.
Do I need a Privacy Policy?
Yes. Carriers require a publicly accessible Privacy Policy that explains how customer information is handled and confirms SMS consent data is not sold or shared.
What types of messages are allowed?
Most Chekkit customers send:
- Customer service responses
- Appointment reminders
- Sales follow-ups
- Review requests
Marketing messages may require additional consent.
What does Chekkit handle for me?
Chekkit manages:
- Campaign setup and submission
- Compliance formatting
- Carrier follow-ups
- Resubmissions if needed
What can delay approval?
- Inconsistent business details
- Missing opt-in language
- Forms that force texting consent
- Sample messages that don’t identify the business
What if approval takes longer than expected?
If the review exceeds the standard timeframe, Chekkit will escalate with our carrier partner on your behalf.
How to get customer consent right
For transactional messages (order confirmations, appointment reminders), you need basic permission. An example of this is when someone provides their phone number at checkout or verbally agrees over the phone. For marketing messages (sales and promotions), you need documented proof like a checkbox, form, or keyword opt-in.
Consent applies to each campaign separately. If someone signs up for order updates, they haven't automatically agreed to receive promotions. You need separate opt-ins for each campaign type, and combined consent isn't permitted.
Most importantly, consent must be voluntary. If customers have to opt in to messaging just to complete a purchase or create an account, your registration will be rejected.
Privacy policy and terms and conditions
Every registration needs to include both a privacy policy and terms and conditions, and they need to meet specific requirements that protect your customers and keep you compliant with industry standards. Registrations that don't include them will be rejected.
Your privacy policy must:
- Disclose what data you collect and how it's used
- Explain that mobile information won't be shared with third parties for marketing purposes (required by CTIA (Cellular Telecommunications and Internet Association))
Your terms and conditions should generally include:
- Program or brand name
- Program description
- Message and data rates may apply disclosure
- Message frequency (or recurring message disclosure)
- Customer support contact information
- Complete opt-out instructions (HELP and STOP), displayed in bold
- Link to the privacy policy
- Disclosure that states "Carriers are not liable for any delayed or undelivered messages."
We recommend that you consult with your legal counsel to make sure that your terms and conditions and privacy policy are compliant with applicable laws and consistent with standards for your particular campaign and industry.
💡 Pro tip: Consider creating messaging-specific privacy policies and terms and conditions rather than updating your main company documents. Dedicated messaging policies are easier to keep current if requirements change.
Need a hand?
We're here to help you get your campaigns approved. This resource walks through the requirements in more detail: