Getting Started

Consumer Code
All of the country’s major wireless carriers and most regional and local wireless service providers have committed to the voluntary “Consumer Code for Wireless Service.” It’s the industry’s effort to help consumers make informed choices when selecting and managing their wireless service. The Code’s signatories must adhere to its 11 points, including commitments to disclose rates, additional taxes, fees, surcharges and terms of service; provide coverage maps; make customer service readily accessible; allow a trial period for new service; and provide free usage alerts to avoid unexpected overage charges.

“Wireless Consumer Checklist” Initiative

With a variety of options for voice, data and text messages, CTIA and many member carriers have developed two different guides that offer consumers standardized questions to ask customer representatives when choosing their wireless service and plans. These guides are yet another tool to help consumers learn the applicable terms and conditions and ensure they’re on the right plans and devices.

Frequently Asked Questions Guide

The FAQ guide about a provider’s general service and device offerings. This includes coverage area; contract terms and trial periods; usage management and monitoring tools; and parental control features.

Checklist for Choosing Your Service and Device

Once consumers have narrowed their choices, this guide helps individuals ask the right questions to get detailed information on available options. The one-page guide has specific questions on plans and devices; terms and charges for voice, text and data; and coverage area.

Plan Selection
One of the beauties of wireless service in America today is the vast amount of choices you have, including what kind of service plan you want. Carriers want your business!  That’s why they offer you a variety of plans, so you’re able to find the one that best fits your needs. In this section CTIA provides tools to help you figure out which plan is right for you.

Device Selection
Wireless devices also come in many varieties to accommodate your business and personal needs. Deciding what functionality you want from your wireless device is an important step in choosing the best one for you. See what helpful hints we have to share in selecting the device that is right for you.