When you order a DID (telephone number), there are two main steps in the process:
-
Allocation
-
Activation
For most numbers, both happen quickly, often without you noticing any delay.
But for some numbers, especially those with local regulatory requirements, you may notice a gap between the two.
Step 1: Allocation
What is Allocation?
Allocation means the number has been reserved for your account.
We do this as soon as your orderprocess is completed and the invoice is paid, and in most cases it’s:
-
Instant
-
Done without involving any external parties
-
The first sign that your number is ready to be set up
The number is now assigned and reserved for you, but it’s not active yet.
Step 2: Activation
What is Activation?
Activation is when the number becomes fully functional, allowing you to:
-
Make calls
-
Receive calls (incoming routing may take a short time to sync globally)
There are two activation paths, depending on the type of number and location.
a) Simple activation (no special paperwork needed)
If the number you ordered doesn’t require verification or paperwork:
-
Allocation and activation happen almost immediately
-
As soon as we confirm, by mail, the number, it’s ready to use
-
You can start calling straight away
-
Incoming calls are usually active within the hour
b) Activation with regulatory checks (paperwork required)
For certain countries or number types, local telecom rules require identity and address verification. In this case:
-
We allocate the number to your account
-
You must send us the required paperwork within 3 days (7 days maximum)
-
If we don’t receive the correct documents by day 8, the number may be cancelled by the local carrier, and the order will need to be restarted
-
Once we receive your documents, we will:
-
Review them
-
Contact you if anything is missing or unclear
-
Submit the application to the local regulator for approval
-
-
Once approved, we activate the number and confirm this with you
After activation, the number works immediately.
It may take a short while (usually less than an hour) for the number to become fully reachable from all external networks.
Most regulators process applications very quickly, so this step usually doesn’t add much delay.
Summary
-
Allocation = reserved
-
Activation = usable
-
In simple cases, both happen at once
-
If paperwork is needed, you’ll be notified and guided through the process
Need help understanding which numbers need paperwork or what to include?
Check our extensive and up-to-date knowledgebase or just ask, we’re here to help you get set up smoothly.
Last updated: 01/04/2025
© Voyced
All information provided is copyrighted and purely informative in nature. It is maintained by Voyced with the greatest of care using reliable sources only.
Given the fast evolution of the telecom sector, Voyced does not offer any guarantee about the accuracy and completeness of the information offered.
We explicitly do not give anyone permission to use this information in any other way than to inform themselves about what (legal) requirements there may be and they need to comply with when registering Services and/or DIDs with Voyced.
