Obtaining FCC Permission

We help Telecom Providers, MVNOs, VoIP companies, and UCaaS providers comply with FCC requirements.

Helping Telecom Providers Navigate Licensing, Compliance, and Market Entry

Before you can legally offer telecom services in the U.S., you must receive proper authorization from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and, in many cases, applicable state Public Utility Commissions (PUCs) or Public Service Commissions (PSCs) as well. Attempting to operate without prior approval isn’t just risky – it can result in substantial fines, service interruptions, and long-term business setbacks.

Telecom Licensing and FCC Entry Requirements

Whether you’re a startup launching nationwide or a niche provider entering a specific state, your regulatory strategy starts with securing the right permissions. We work with clients to:

  • Identify required federal and state filings
  • Prepare and submit FCC Form 499-A and 499-Q
  • Obtain Section 214 authorization for international services
  • Ensure compliance with CPNI and CALEA rules
  • Register with the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC)
  • Draft required price lists and service terms
  • Build strategies for state-by-state market entry

FCC Section 214 Authorization

If you plan to offer international telecom services originating or terminating in the U.S., you’ll need FCC Section 214 authority. Bronston Legal handles the full application process and assists with any complexities, including foreign ownership disclosures or non-standard service models.

FCC Form 499-A Registration

To provide domestic interstate telecom services (e.g., calls between two states), you must register with the FCC for a 499 Filer ID and file an initial Form 499-A, which links your business to the Universal Service Fund (USF) and allows your company to legally operate.

Regulatory Considerations After Entry

Licensing is just the beginning. Once you’ve entered the market, you’ll be subject to an ongoing web of federal and state reporting obligations, including:

  • Universal Service Fund (USF) contributions
  • Quarterly and annual filings (Forms 499-Q and 499-A)
  • FCC regulatory fees
  • Prepaid Calling Card (PIU) reporting and certifications
  • State-level USF fees and regulatory assessments
  • TRS, NANP, and LNP contributions

We help ensure your business stays compliant – not just operational – with practical, ongoing legal support built for your industry.

Enter the Telecom Market Fully Authorized, Compliant, and Protected.

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