What is the Telephone Preference Service?
The Telephone Preference Service (TPS) is the UK's official opt-out register for landline and mobile numbers. When you register your number with the TPS, it becomes illegal for organisations to make unsolicited sales and marketing calls to that number unless they have your explicit consent.
Established under the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR), the TPS is free to use and is designed to help UK consumers reduce the number of unwanted calls they receive.
How to Register with the TPS
Registering with the TPS is straightforward and can be done in several ways:
| Registration Method | Speed | Convenience | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online via tpsonline.org.uk |
★★★★ | ★★★★★ | Easiest method; can register multiple numbers at once; immediate confirmation email |
| Phone via 0345 070 0707 |
★★★★★ | ★★★ | Must call from the phone you want to register; automated process; no email confirmation |
| Text Message Text "TPS" to 85095 |
★★★★ | ★★★★ | Mobile numbers only; confirmation by text; requires email address |
| Post via mail form |
★★ | ★ | Slowest method; useful for those without internet access; no immediate confirmation |
Screenshot of the TPS registration page
Online Registration
- Visit the official TPS website at www.tpsonline.org.uk
- Click on the "Register" button
- Enter your telephone number and personal details
- Confirm your registration via the verification method provided
Phone Registration
- Call 0345 070 0707 from the phone you wish to register
- Follow the automated instructions
- Your number will be registered immediately
Text Message Registration (Mobile Only)
- Text "TPS" followed by your email address to 85095
- You'll receive a confirmation message
- Registration will be complete within 28 days
How Long Does Registration Take to Become Effective?
Once registered, your number will be added to the TPS list within 28 days. By law, organisations should check the TPS list and stop calling your number after this period. It's important to note that you may still receive calls during this initial 28-day period.
What Protection Does the TPS Actually Provide?
| Covered by TPS | Not Covered by TPS |
|---|---|
|
|
What the TPS Covers:
- UK-based companies: All UK organisations, including charities and voluntary organisations, must comply with the TPS register.
- Sales and marketing calls: Calls attempting to sell you products or services or solicit donations.
- Automated calls: Pre-recorded marketing messages from UK organisations.
What the TPS Does NOT Cover:
- International calls: Calls from companies based outside the UK may not adhere to TPS regulations.
- Scam calls: Fraudsters deliberately ignore the TPS register.
- Research calls: Genuine market research calls are exempt from TPS regulations.
- Debt collection: Calls regarding existing debts.
- Calls from companies you have a relationship with: If you're an existing customer or have given consent.
- Silent calls: These are often caused by automated dialing systems, not intentional marketing.
Effectiveness of the TPS
Studies show that registering with the TPS can reduce unwanted calls by approximately 60-80%. While this is significant, it's clear that the TPS is not a complete solution for eliminating all unwanted calls.
Effectiveness of TPS Registration
Estimated percentage reduction in different types of calls after TPS registration
Based on data from ICO and Ofcom studies
The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) reports that TPS registration is most effective against legitimate UK businesses conducting telemarketing. However, the rise in technology enabling cheap international calls and caller ID spoofing has limited its effectiveness against some types of nuisance calls.
Enforcement and Reporting Violations
If you continue to receive unsolicited sales calls after registering with the TPS (and after the 28-day processing period), you can report these violations:
- Report to the TPS: File a complaint on the TPS website or call 0345 070 0707.
- Report to the ICO: The Information Commissioner's Office has the power to fine companies up to £500,000 for persistent violations.
When reporting, try to note:
- The company name and phone number
- The date and time of the call
- What the call was about
Complementary Protection Measures
While the TPS is helpful, it works best as part of a broader strategy to reduce unwanted calls:
Additional Protection Strategies
- Call blocking technology: Many modern phones and providers offer call blocking features.
- Be careful who you share your number with: Review privacy policies when providing your phone number to companies.
- Withdraw consent explicitly: Tell companies directly that you don't want to be contacted.
- Register with the Mail Preference Service (MPS): To reduce unsolicited postal marketing.
- Check for pre-ticked boxes: When completing forms online, ensure you haven't inadvertently given consent for calls.
Sources of Nuisance Calls in the UK
Understanding why TPS only addresses a portion of unwanted calls
Based on Ofcom Nuisance Calls Panel research data
Corporate TPS (CTPS)
For business phone numbers, there's a separate register called the Corporate Telephone Preference Service (CTPS). The registration process is similar to the consumer TPS, but it applies specifically to business numbers.
Common Questions About the TPS
No, once registered, your number remains on the TPS register indefinitely unless you move house or change your phone number.
Yes, you can register both landline and mobile numbers with the TPS.
No, the TPS will not stop all unwanted calls. It's most effective against legitimate UK-based telemarketers.
No, registration is completely free. Be wary of any service charging a fee to register you with the TPS as this may be fraudulent.
Yes, you can check your registration status on the TPS website or by calling their verification line on 0345 070 0707.
Conclusion
The Telephone Preference Service is a useful first step in reducing unwanted sales and marketing calls. While it's not a perfect solution, especially against international or fraudulent callers, it provides legal protection against unsolicited contact from legitimate UK companies.
For the best protection, combine TPS registration with other privacy measures and stay informed about the latest call-blocking technologies available for your specific devices.
Take Action Now
Register your number with the TPS today to start reducing unwanted marketing calls:
Last updated: April 2025
Disclaimer: This information is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. For the most current information, please visit the official TPS website at www.tpsonline.org.uk or contact the Information Commissioner's Office.