How to Register for an FCC FRN in CORES

Step-by-step guide to registering for an FCC Registration Number (FRN) in the Commission Registration System (CORES). Required before any FCC filing.

When to file: Before any FCC filing. This is a one-time registration that gives you the 10-digit FRN required for all FCC interactions.

Step 1: Go to the CORES Portal

Navigate to apps.fcc.gov/cores. This is the FCC's Commission Registration System where all entities that do business with the FCC must register.

Screenshot: CORES homepage

Step 2: Click "Register New FRN"

On the CORES landing page, click the "Register New FRN" button. If you already have an FRN and need to update it, use "Manage Existing FRN" instead.

Screenshot: Register New FRN button

Step 3: Enter Entity Information

Provide your business entity details including legal company name, EIN/SSN, business address, and contact information. Use your business name and EIN — not personal information — for commercial filings.

Screenshot: Entity information form

Step 4: Create Your Password

Set a strong password for your CORES account. This password is required for all future FCC filings and portal access. Store it securely — password recovery can be time-consuming.

Screenshot: Password creation screen

Step 5: Receive Your 10-Digit FRN

Upon successful registration, the system will assign you a unique 10-digit FCC Registration Number (FRN). Write this down immediately — you'll need it for every FCC filing, USAC registration, and RMD submission.

Screenshot: FRN assignment confirmation

Step 6: Verify via Email

Check your email for a verification message from the FCC. Click the verification link to activate your CORES account. Your FRN is active immediately, but email verification is required for future logins.

Screenshot: Email verification

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Creating duplicate FRNs — search for your entity first to check if an FRN already exists before registering a new one
  • Using personal information instead of business information — commercial entities should register with their EIN, not an SSN
  • Forgetting your CORES password — store it in a password manager, as recovery requires contacting FCC support

Let us handle it

We register your FRN and handle all FCC filings as part of our telecom compliance packages.

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