1) What is an RN?
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 instead of the company name.
2) Do I have to use an RN?
No. You are required to label covered products to identify the business responsible for marketing the products in the United States or the manufacturer. Therefore, you may put 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, products 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 marketing them in the United States. If you are acquiring finished products from an importer or distributor that markets them in the United States, or a manufacturer, the products can remain labeled with that company’s RN or business name. RNs are available only to businesses residing in the United States. However, imported goods can be labeled with the name of the foreign exporter or distributor that markets them in the United States, or the manufacturer.
3) How do I get an RN?
Apply online. Commission staff will review the application and you will be notified by email. As soon as the application has been approved, you can find your RN number in our RN Search screen. Mailed and faxed applications are no longer accepted until further notice.
4) How long does it take to get an RN?
We usually process online applications within 3 business days or sooner. We will send a response to the email address you provide. If you apply by mail or fax but do not provide an email address, a regular postal letter will be mailed to you instead. 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 my RN?
No. When your RN first issues, we will email it to the email address you provide. However, you can find your number on our website's RN Search screen as soon as the application has been processed and approved. You can search for your RN by entering a key word of your company name.
6) How much does an RN cost?
There is no charge.
7) My company is not in the United States. What can I use instead of an RN?
If you are the product manufacturer, or engage in the sale, offering for sale, distribution, or advertising of a covered product in the United States, the business name of your company can be used on the label. Alternatively, the product can be labeled with the RN or business name of a company in the United States that is directly involved with importing, distributing, or selling the product.
8) Can I use my IRS number or a Canadian CA number instead of an RN on a product label?
No. Neither your IRS number nor a Canadian CA number can substitute for a business name or RN on the label. However, the business name of a Canadian company responsible for marketing the product in the United States or a Canadian manufacturer on the label will satisfy the legal requirement.
9) Can I have more than one RN?
No. We will issue only one RN per company.
10) What if my business moves after I obtain an RN?
You are required to update the information for your RN registration 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.
11) How can I update my RN information?
Update your information online on the FTC’s RN Database website. Create a user account, making sure to type the legal business name exactly as shown in your RN registration in the space provided on the webpage. After you create a user account, login and click the “Update RN” button to create and submit an update request. Commission staff will review the update application and you will be notified by email or regular mail. As soon as the application has been approved, you can find your updated RN registration in our RN Search screen.
12) What is a WPL number?
Many years ago, the FTC issued WPL numbers 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.
13) Where can I get more information about RNs and the labeling of textile, wool and fur products?
We invite you to review our business guide book, Threading Your Way Through the Labeling Requirements Under the Textile and Wool Acts, and visit our webpage for clothing and textiles.