Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA)
In force since 20 December 1991
Agent Navigation: For section discovery, use /regulations/us/tcpa/llms.txt
Quick Reference
The Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA), 47 USC 227, is the foundational US law restricting robocalls, autodialers, and telemarketing. Enacted in 1991, it requires consent before making automated calls and establishes the Do-Not-Call Registry.
Q: Can I make automated phone calls without consent? A: Generally no. Calls using autodialers or artificial/prerecorded voices to cell phones require prior express consent. Telemarketing requires prior express written consent [47 USC 227(b)].
Key rule (47 USC 227(b)): It is unlawful to make any call using an automatic telephone dialing system or artificial/prerecorded voice to any cell phone without prior express consent.
Rule: Consent is required for robocalls. Violations cost $500-$1,500 per call.
Applies to: Anyone making automated calls, robocalls, or telemarketing calls in the US
Key rules:
- No autodialer/robocalls to cell phones without consent [§ 227(b)(1)(A)]
- No prerecorded calls to residences without consent [§ 227(b)(1)(B)]
- Honor Do-Not-Call Registry for telemarketing [§ 227(c)]
- Identify caller and provide callback number [47 CFR 64.1200]
- AI-generated voices are “artificial” under TCPA [FCC 24-17]
| Question | Answer | Citation |
|---|---|---|
| Do I need consent for robocalls? | Yes, to cell phones | § 227(b)(1)(A) |
| What about AI voice calls? | Yes, same rules apply | FCC 24-17 |
| What’s the penalty? | $500-$1,500 per violation | § 227(c)(5) |
| Can individuals sue? | Yes, private right of action | § 227(c)(5) |
| What about Do-Not-Call? | Must honor registry | § 227(c) |
| Who enforces? | FCC + State AGs + private | § 227(g) |
Regulation Map (All Chunks)
Definitions
Requirements
Enforcement
Related
- FCC AI Robocall Rules — AI voices are “artificial” under TCPA
- CAN-SPAM Act — Email marketing rules