Registered Number:
Frequently Asked Questions
1) What is an RN Number?
RN stands for Registered Identification
Number. It is a number issued by the FTC to U.S. businesses
that manufacture, import, distribute, or sell products covered
by the Textile, Wool, and Fur Acts. Businesses can use this
number on product labels in lieu of the company name.
2) Do I have to use an RN number?
No. You are required to label covered products
to show the name or identifying number of a U.S. business
responsible for manufacturing or marketing the product or
the name of a foreign manufacturer. Therefore, you may use
your company business name on the label instead of an RN.
The business name is the full name that appears on business
documents, such as purchase orders and invoices. It is not
a trademark, brand, or designer name (unless that is also
the name under which the company conducts business). Alternatively,
the goods may be labeled with the RN or business name of the
company that is buying the goods from you - such as a distributor
or retailer. If you are acquiring the finished products from
a U.S. manufacturer, importer, or distributor, they can remain
labeled with the RN or business name of that company. RN numbers
are available only to businesses residing in the U.S. However,
imported goods can be labeled with the name of their foreign
manufacturer.
3) How do I get an RN number?
We encourage you to apply
online. Commission staff will review the application and
you will be notified by regular postal mail. As soon as the
application has been approved, you can find your RN number
in our RN
Lookup Service. The number probably will be available
online before you receive the mail notification. If you choose
not to apply online, you can mail or fax your application
to us. The form can be downloaded from this website. The mailing
address is: Division of Enforcement, FTC, 600 Pennsylvania
Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20580. The fax number is 202-326-3197.
4) How long does it take to get an RN number?
It is faster if you apply
online. We usually process online applications within
3 business days. A letter will be mailed to you shortly thereafter.
If you apply by fax or regular mail, it can take 7-10 business
days after we receive a properly completed application. We
cannot offer one-day service or preferential treatment to
any business - regardless of the situation.
5) Can you telephone or fax or email my
number?
No. We mail you a letter via the U.S. Postal
Service advising you of the number that has been issued. However,
you can find your number on our website's RN
Lookup Service as soon as the application has been processed.
You can search the RN database for your number by entering
a key word of your company name.
6) How much does it cost?
There is no charge for this service.
7) My company is not in the U.S. What can
I use instead of an RN number?
If you are a foreign manufacturer, the business
name of your company can be used on the label. Alternatively,
the goods can be labeled with the RN or business name of a
company in the U.S. that is directly involved with importing,
distributing, or selling the products.
8) Can I use my IRS number or a Canadian
CA number instead of an RN number?
No. Neither your IRS number nor a Canadian
CA number can substitute for a business name or RN on the
label. However, for goods made in Canada, the business name
of a Canadian manufacturer on the label will satisfy the legal
requirement.
9) Can I have more than one RN number?
No. We assign only one RN number per company.
10) What if my business moves after I obtain
an RN number?
You are required to update the information
in your application if there is any change in your business
name, address, or legal business status. Your RN is subject
to cancellation if you fail to do so. You can update
this information online or by downloading and mailing
or faxing the RN application form. You are also encouraged
to update other information that may change, such as telephone
number, e-mail address, products, or type of business.
11) What is a WPL number?
Many years ago, WPL numbers were issued
by the FTC to companies manufacturing wool products subject
to the Wool Products Labeling Act. We no longer issue WPL
numbers, but many are still in use. They are used in the same
manner as RN numbers.
12) Where can I get more information about
RN numbers and the labeling of textile, wool and fur products?
We suggest that you review our business
guide book, Threading
Your Way Through the Labeling Requirements Under the Textile
and Wool Acts. You can order a printed copy of the
book by calling our Textile Telephone Information number at
202-326-3553.
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