How Does a Hearing Person Initiate a Relay Call?

A "relay," or "text relay," call can be initiated easily by a hearing person to contact a deaf person. A hearing/speaking telephone operator at a relay service can be contacted to relay--type--part of a conversation so that the deaf person can read the text on a text phone, computer or cellphone. The hearing person does not require special equipment or software.

Relay Service Access

• In places offering a relay service, a hearing person can use a regular telephone to speak directly to a relay operator.

In the United States

• In the United States, all relay users must be registered with at least one relay provider and have a 10-digit user number. How to use the service depends on the provider. The location of a call's recipient doesn't matter. A quick Internet search using a search phrase such as "Text Relay" will result in a list of relay providers; their websites display their contact number and the particular procedure to follow to make a relay call. Usually, 711 is the number to call to reach a relay operator.

In Other Countries

• In countries other than the United States, using the Internet is the best way to determine whether or not relay service is available, whether or not registration with a relay provider is required, how a relay service works and available relay providers and their contact numbers.