10DLC Message Flow: Different Types of Opt-ins

To complete the 10DLC message flow field, describe exactly how subscribers give consent to receive messages from your brand. The description should clearly identify the sender, the recipient, the reason for messaging, and how consent is captured. For 10DLC registration, carrier groups opt-in flows into four common methods: digital, verbal, physical, and inbound message.

Digital / Web-Based Opt-in

Use this section when users opt in through a website, landing page, contact form, or app form. Include the page URL or the path users take to reach the form, and attach a screenshot if the form is not publicly available

Example message flow:
Users visit our website [URL] and complete an opt-in form. The form includes an unchecked consent box and clearly states that by submitting their phone number, they agree to receive SMS messages from [Brand Name]. The disclosure includes the message purpose, message frequency, message and data rates, STOP/HELP instructions, and a link to our Privacy Policy and Terms.

Sample disclosure:
“By providing your phone number and clicking Submit, you agree to receive SMS messages from [Brand Name]. Message frequency may vary. Message and data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out. Reply HELP for help. See our Privacy Policy and Terms.”

Verbal Opt-in

Use this section when consent is collected by phone or in person. Document how the representative explains the program, how the customer agrees, and how the consent is recorded in your system. Carrier also recommends sending a confirmation SMS after verbal consent is obtained.

Physical / Paper Form Opt-in

Use this section when customers sign a paper form or other written consent document. The form should include the brand name, message purpose, message frequency, message and data rates, opt-out instructions, help instructions, and privacy-policy language.

Example message flow:
The customer completes and signs a paper form during onboarding, an appointment, or another in-person interaction. The signed form is stored as proof of consent, and the phone number is then added to the messaging system. < Public URL to the Physical/Paper Opt-in Form>

Sample disclosure:
“By signing this form and providing your phone number, you agree to receive SMS messages from [Brand Name]. Message frequency may vary. Message and data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out. Reply HELP for help. Phone number will not be shared with third parties for marketing purposes.”

Inbound Message / Keyword Opt-in

Use this section when users opt in by texting a keyword or by sending an inbound message to a number advertised on a website, flyer, QR code, business card, or similar channel.

Example Opt-In by Keyword Message Flow:

• The [brand] provides a keyword (e.g., "START") and a number (e.g., 123456) via [a channel such as a website, flyer, or QR code]
• The keyword opt-in process includes a disclaimer:
• When the user texts "[Keyword]," the system responds with:
• "Thank you for opting in to [Brand Name] SMS [update type] or [We will be with you shortly]! Msg freq may vary. Std msg & data rates apply. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. Your mobile information will not be sold or shared with third parties for promotional or marketing purposes."
• Link to where the phone number or QR code is advertised, or link to a screenshot of where the phone number or QR code is advertised

Example Opt-In by Inbound Message

• The [brand] provides a number (e.g., 123456789) via [a channel such as a website, flyer, or QR code, business card, email signature, etc.]
• When the user texts the number, the system responds with:
• "Thank you for your message to [Brand Name]! We will be with you shortly. Msg freq may vary. Std msg & data rates apply. Reply STOP to opt out, HELP for help. We will not share or sell your mobile information for marketing/promotional purposes."
• Link to where the phone number or QR code is advertised, or link to a screenshot of where the phone number or QR code is advertised

General Requirements

Your message flow should be clear, complete, and specific. Include who is sending the messages, who is receiving them, why the messages are being sent, and how consent is captured. If you use more than one opt-in method, list each one separately. Carrier also notes that marketing campaigns should explicitly mention marketing consent, and political or charity campaigns should mention donations if fundraising may occur.

For all opt-in types, include clear STOP and HELP instructions, and keep records of consent where applicable.