What is the Do Not Call List?

The National Do Not Call Registry is a free service provided by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) that allows US consumers to register their phone numbers to opt out of receiving most telemarketing calls. Established in 2003, the registry is one of the most successful consumer protection programs in US history.

Once a number is added to the registry, telemarketers have 31 days to stop calling that number. Registrations do not expire — once a number is on the list, it stays on the list until the consumer removes it or the number is disconnected and reassigned.

Consumers can add their phone numbers to the Do Not Call Registry for free by visiting donotcall.gov or calling 1-888-382-1222 from the phone they want to register. Both landlines and cell phones can be registered.

The registration is permanent and does not need to be renewed. Consumers can also file complaints through the same website if they continue to receive unwanted telemarketing calls after registration.

If your business makes telemarketing calls — or hires someone to make calls on your behalf — you are required to:

• Access the National DNC Registry and scrub your call lists at least every 31 days
• Pay the required fees to access the registry data (starting at $75 per area code, with the first 5 area codes free for businesses)
• Maintain records of your DNC compliance efforts
• Train employees on your DNC compliance procedures

FreeDNCScrub simplifies this process by providing free, instant phone number checks against the registry.