Guidelines

We've compiled regulatory and compliance information to help ensure you're communicating effectively and compliantly around the world.

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Phone Number Regulations

To use phone numbers in many countries, both Twilio and our customers must adhere to local country regulations. Read about compliance considerations.

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SMS Guidelines

SMS works differently in every country and region. Learn about country-specific considerations for sending messages.

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Voice Guidelines

Voice calls work differently in every country and region. Learn about country-specific considerations for voice calls.

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Porting Guidelines

"Porting" refers to the transfer of phone numbers between to service providers on behalf of an end user. Learn more about country-specific considerations.

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Short Code Guidelines

Short codes (generally 5 - 6 digits) allow direct customer communication through SMS. Using short codes results in higher message volumes, within shorter time periods, than long-code or toll-free numbers.


For the benefit of all our customers, these guidelines are provided to help you comply with applicable requirements and to help ensure Twilio's platform remains compliant with global telecommunications ecosystem requirements. These guidelines represent our current understanding of common compliance requirements generally applicable to Twilio and its customers, and do not constitute legal advice. By posting these guidelines, Twilio makes no assurances regarding the legal compliance of your application built using our APIs. You are expected to understand and abide by all compliance obligations applicable to your specific application. You should check these pages regularly for updates as telecommunications ecosystem requirements continue to evolve and change, and the information below may be updated or changed without notice.