Compliance

Do Not Call Registry A federal list that lets you block most telemarketing calls to your phone number

Marcus Lee By Marcus Lee, Senior Insurance Editor · Updated 2026-06-09
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The National Do Not Call Registry is an FTC-run list, in place since 2003, that lets consumers block most telemarketing calls by registering their phone numbers. Once your number is listed, telemarketers must scrub their call lists against the Registry at least every 31 days and stop calling you. The rule covers most sales calls, but key exceptions apply: companies you have an established business relationship with, and callers you've given prior consent, may still contact you. It also doesn't cover charities, political calls, or surveys. The Registry is enforced alongside the TCPA, so a single illegal call can trigger violations under both frameworks. If you keep getting unwanted sales calls after registering, you can file a complaint with the FTC, which may pursue enforcement against the offending telemarketer.
Also Known As
DNC Registry National DNC List FTC Do Not Call List Do Not Call
Used in Context
  1. Before any agent dials, Dreamy Leads scrubs its outbound lists against the Do Not Call Registry to stay compliant.
  2. After registering on the Do Not Call Registry, the homeowner noticed solar sales calls dropped off within about a month.
  3. A debt-relief marketer was fined for calling numbers on the Do Not Call Registry without consent or an established business relationship.
Related Terms
Compliance TCPA The federal law governing automated calls, texts, and telemarketing consent Compliance Express Written Consent The documented permission required before contacting a consumer via automated calls or texts Compliance Prior Express Consent The baseline TCPA consent for non-marketing autodialed or prerecorded calls and texts Compliance CAN-SPAM Act The federal law setting the ground rules for commercial email and opt-outs Compliance CCPA / CPRA California's privacy laws letting consumers control how their personal data is used and sold
Frequently Asked Questions

How long until calls stop after I register?

Telemarketers must update and scrub their lists against the Registry at least every 31 days, so it can take up to about a month before most legitimate sales calls stop reaching your number after you sign up.

Why am I still getting calls after registering?

Some calls are exempt. Companies you have an established business relationship with and callers you've given consent to may still reach you. Charities, political calls, and surveys aren't covered. Outright scammers also ignore the rules entirely.

Does registering protect me under the TCPA too?

The Registry is enforced alongside the TCPA, so an illegal call can violate both. Registering supports your case, but the TCPA provides separate protections, including rules on automated dialing and prerecorded messages regardless of your Registry status.

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