Skip to main content
Frequently asked questions about phone numbers, their purpose, availability, and management on Plivo.

What are phone numbers and their purpose?

Phone numbers are carrier-recognized identifiers that enable applications to send and receive calls and messages over the public telephone network (PSTN). They provide:
  • Reachability to global mobile and landline networks
  • Trust through verified caller identity
  • Support for voice, SMS, and MMS capabilities

Which countries have phone number availability?

Plivo offers phone numbers across multiple regions:
CountryNumber Types
United StatesLocal, Toll-free
IndiaLocal (Guidelines)
CanadaLocal, Toll-free
United KingdomLocal, Mobile
AustraliaLocal, Mobile, Toll-free
New ZealandLocal, Toll-free
SingaporeLocal
BrazilLocal, Toll-free
United Arab EmiratesLocal
US and India numbers are available on the Pay As You Go plan. Other countries require the Enterprise plan ($1,000/month commit). See Plivo Pricing for details.

What are compliance applications?

Compliance applications bundle end-user information and regulatory documents for country-specific compliance requirements. Many regions require these before number activation. Assign during number rental or via Phone Numbers > Compliance Applications. For renting numbers, see Rent a Number Quickstart. See Compliance Application.

What are subaccounts?

Subaccounts let you link numbers to isolate traffic across departments, customers, or use cases. Each subaccount has its own Auth ID and Token; charges deduct from the main account. See Subaccount API.

What is a Plivo Application?

A Plivo Application is assigned to numbers to define how incoming calls and messages are handled using XML instructions. See Application API and Voice XML.

What charges apply to phone numbers?

ChargeDescription
Setup FeeOne-time fee when renting
Monthly RentalRecurring fee, billed from rental date
See Phone Number Pricing.

Are there compliance requirements for phone numbers?

Yes. Many countries require regulatory documentation before numbers can be activated. Requirements vary by:
  • Country and number type
  • End-user type (business or individual)
See Compliance Requirements.