Step-by-Step Guide to DLT Registration for SMS in India

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In India, the Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) platform was introduced by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) to regulate and curb spam messaging. If you are a business that sends SMS for marketing, transactional, or service purposes, DLT registration is mandatory. This guide will walk you through the DLT registration process step-by-step.

What is DLT Registration?

DLT is a blockchain-based registration system introduced to improve transparency, reduce spam, and secure communication over telecom networks. Any business sending bulk SMS, including promotional and transactional messages, must register on the DLT platform to avoid blocking their messages.

Step 1: Choose a Telecom Operator

The first step is to choose a telecom operator’s DLT platform for registration. Some of the popular operators in India that provide DLT registration are:

  • Airtel
  • Vodafone Idea
  • Jio
  • BSNL

Register on any operator’s DLT portal as it will be valid across all networks.

Step 2: Visit the DLT Portal

Once you have chosen a telecom operator, visit their DLT registration portal. Below are the links to some of the main portals:

  • Jio DLT Portal
  • Vodafone Idea DLT Portal
  • Airtel DLT Portal
  • BSNL DLT Portal

Step 3: Choose Your Entity Type

After accessing the portal, you’ll need to select your entity type. There are three types of entities you can register as:

  1. Principal Entity: If you are a business or organization sending SMS to your customers.
  2. Telemarketer: If you are a telemarketer sending SMS on behalf of other businesses.
  3. Enterprise: This applies to businesses using bulk messaging services.

Most businesses will choose a Principal Entity as their entity type.

Step 4: Fill in the Registration Form

You will need to fill in the details required for registration. The information typically includes:

  • Business Name: The legal name of your business.
  • Type of Business: Specify if you are an enterprise or a telemarketer.
  • PAN Card Number: The business PAN card number or individual’s PAN if registering as an individual.
  • Business Address: Your registered business address.
  • Authorized Person Details: Name and contact details of the authorized person for communication.
  • Email Address: This is for receiving updates and notifications.

Make sure you provide accurate information as this will be verified by the operator.

Step 5: Upload Required Documents

You will need to upload certain documents to complete the registration process. Common documents include:

  • Proof of Business Registration: GST registration certificate, Udyog Aadhaar, or Company Incorporation Certificate.
  • PAN Card: A scanned copy of the PAN card of the business or individual.
  • Authorization Letter: If the person registering is not the owner, an authorization letter from the business is required.

Ensure the documents are clear and valid to avoid delays in the approval process.

Step 6: Pay the Registration Fee

Most telecom operators charge a one-time registration fee, which typically ranges from ₹5,000 to ₹15,000 depending on the operator. This fee can be paid online via the portal through credit/debit cards, net banking, or UPI.

Step 7: Register Your Headers (Sender ID)

Once your entity is approved, the next step is to register your Headers. Headers (also known as Sender IDs) are the names or numbers that appear when you send an SMS.

  • Promotional SMS Headers: These are typically alphanumeric and should represent your brand (e.g., “ABC123”).
  • Transactional SMS Headers: Transactional headers must be numeric.

You must register these headers to ensure your messages are not blocked by telecom operators.

Step 8: Register Your Templates

After registering headers, you’ll need to submit SMS templates for approval. These templates must be pre-approved and follow TRAI’s guidelines. Here’s how you can structure your templates:

  • Transactional Messages: Include account updates, order confirmations, etc.
  • Promotional Messages: Advertisements, offers, and promotions.
  • Service Messages: OTPs, service updates, and support-related information.

Once templates are submitted, the telecom operator will review and approve them.

Step 9: Start Sending Compliant Messages

Once your entity, headers, and templates are approved, you’re officially DLT registered. You can now start sending compliant SMS through your chosen provider, ensuring that your messages are following TRAI guidelines and avoid being blocked.

Conclusion

DLT registration is a necessary process for any business that communicates with customers via SMS in India. While the process involves multiple steps, it ensures better regulation and reduced spam for consumers. By following this guide and properly registering on the DLT platform, you’ll be able to send your messages seamlessly and legally across all telecom operators.

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