Overview
When registering a text messaging campaign under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) and A2P 10DLC requirements, one common question is whether a P.O. Box is acceptable as your business address. The TCPA itself simply requires that organizations provide clear and accurate contact information so recipients know who is messaging them. However, carriers and The Campaign Registry (TCR) often apply stricter standards, preferring a physical street address over a P.O. Box to demonstrate that the business is legitimate, verifiable, and accountable.
TCPA Requirements
The TCPA requires that consumers know who is contacting them and have a clear way to reach your organization.
The law itself does not specifically require a physical street address; a valid mailing address (including a P.O. Box) can meet the legal requirement.
The focus is on transparency, traceability, and accountability.
Carrier and TCR Requirements
Mobile carriers and The Campaign Registry (TCR), which oversee A2P 10DLC registrations, often impose stricter standards than the TCPA.
Many carriers will reject campaigns that list only a P.O. Box, because:
P.O. Boxes can obscure a company’s physical presence.
A street address provides proof the sender is a real, verifiable business.
A physical location ensures there is a way to serve legal notices if necessary.
For this reason, a street address is generally required for A2P 10DLC approval, even if TCPA law does not mandate it.
Best Practice
If your organization currently uses a P.O. Box:
Provide your registered business address or another verifiable physical location.
Ensure your contact details are consistent with your business registration and public records.
This reduces the risk of rejection during campaign vetting and improves deliverability.
Closing
In short, while the TCPA does not explicitly ban the use of a P.O. Box, most carriers and registries require a valid street address to approve your campaign. Providing a physical address helps establish trust, reduces the risk of rejection, and ensures your messages remain compliant and deliverable.