Are you one of the thousands of people that use Video Relay Services (VRS) and IP Relay daily to make calls? If so, you are urged by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to register for your ten-digit number by November 12, 2009. After that date passes, all VRS and IP Relay providers will not be able to relay your non-emergency calls if you do not have a 10-digit number.

If you are unregistered after November 12, all providers will ask you to give them your name and address from where you are making your calls, and you will be assigned a 10-digit number. Your new number will be used by the relay provider when you make emergency 911 calls to inform the emergency personnel of your exact location.

This is vital for a quick response time from emergency personnel. FCC requires that the system makes it easier for you to update your address at any time and free of charge. If you do not maintain updated information, VRS and IP Relay providers will not be able to inform emergency personnel of your correct location.

Another benefit of having a 10-digit number is that voice telephone users can call you through VRS or IP Relay by using your 10-digit number. This eliminates the need for voice telephone users to know the relay telephone number. They can call you in the same way they call other voice telephone users. You will also be able to reach other videophone users by dialing their 10-digit numbers.

To register for your own 10-digit number, select your preferred VRS or IP Relay provider, which will become your “default” provider. This does not mean that you cannot use other providers, but will be an opportunity for you to register for a 10-digit number. You can change your default provider at any time, and still keep your 10-digit number.

Find out from your preferred VRS or IP Relay provider how to register for a 10-digit number with them. It only takes a few minutes. Get yours today!

For further information from the FCC Web site, visit http://www.fcc.gov/cgb/dro/numbering_and_e911_for_vrs_ip.html.