These 31 states have a local telephone solicitor licensing process.
Many of these same states also require the placement of a telemarketing surety bond. Businesses that make outbound calls across state lines should review licensing requirements in each state they call into, not only the state where the business or call center is located.
What Businesses Should Know
Most call centers are unaware that telemarketer licensing may apply not only in their home state, but also in states where call recipients are located. The process, forms, renewal periods, annual dues, and bonding requirements vary by state.
Some states may provide exemptions for certain consent-based campaigns, inbound campaigns, licensed professionals, insurance producers, real estate licensees, or other regulated business categories. Because exemptions and filing requirements vary, businesses should review the applicable state rules before launching outbound calling campaigns.
Why Telemarketer Licensing Matters
State telemarketer licensing rules are separate from federal calling regulations such as TCPA, Do Not Call, consent, opt-out, and caller identification requirements. A business may need to evaluate multiple compliance areas before starting or expanding an outbound campaign.
In many cases, regulators want businesses to register properly, maintain accurate records, and operate transparently. Reviewing licensing requirements early can help reduce compliance risk and prevent campaign delays.
Communication Compliance Checklist
- Review telemarketer registration and licensing requirements in each state being called.
- Confirm whether a telemarketing surety bond is required.
- Review whether any exemptions apply to your business model or campaign type.
- Maintain campaign records, consent documentation, and opt-out records.
- Review Do Not Call, TCPA, caller ID, consent, and message identification requirements separately.
- Consult qualified legal counsel for campaign-specific compliance guidance.
Customer Contact Workflows
Businesses that use outbound calls, SMS, ringless voicemail, IVR, email, or automated customer communication tools should include compliance review as part of campaign planning. Compliance procedures should be documented before campaigns begin, especially when contacting customers or prospects across multiple states.
This article is for general informational purposes only and should not be treated as legal advice.
For more information about responsible outbound communication practices, review our Compliance & Regulations resource page.