Close Window
What You Need to Know
Print Window

What You Need to Know

  1. Why do I need a username and password?

    2. If you wish to conduct business with the FCC, you must first register an FCC Registration Number through the FCC's COmmission REgistration System (CORES). To access CORES, you must create a unique username and password in the FCC User Registration System.

    You will use this username to access CORES to update your FRN information and reset/update your FRN Password (Only FRNs created in the Legacy CORES have a password of their own). CORES will now require FRNs to have Administrator(s). These user(s) will manage which users have access to the FRN and what user role they will have.

    Back to Top

  2. What is an FRN?

    3. An FRN, or FCC registration number, is a 10-digit number that is assigned to a business or individual registering with the FCC. This unique FRN is used to identify the registrant's business dealings with the FCC. FRNs created in the Legacy CORES have a password.

    Presently, some FCC licensing systems allow you access using the FRN and the FRN password. In the updated CORES, you will associate previously registered FRNs to your username, and the FRN may be used in other FCC systems that still allow FRN login along with your Username password. FRNs registered in the updated CORES DO NOT have a password of their own, the associated Username's password can be used with the FRN where still applicable.

    Back to Top

  3. Why must I register with the FCC?

    4. Effective Dec. 3, 2001, all applications and remittance must use an FRN.

    Registering via the FCC Registration site is how you provide the FCC with basic information. Each individual or organization doing business with the FCC is required to provide and maintain current official contact information. The contact information you provide will be used to communicate important FCC-related information to you.

    Back to Top

  4. What do you mean by "doing business" with the FCC?

    5. A filer, licensee, certificate holder, or any entity sending payments to the FCC is considered to be doing business with the FCC and must, therefore, have an FRN. To register for an FRN, you must access CORES with your registered username and password.

    Back to Top

  5. Why should I register for an FRN on the Internet and not by paper form?

    6. The CORES online portal provides you with the easiest and fastest way to receive your FCC Registration Number (FRN). It also provides you with tools to manage your FRN, including viewing financial related information. Upon registering online, your FRN will be available to you immediately.

    Back to Top

  6. How can I obtain a paper form to register for an FRN?

    7. You can download the forms by going to the FCC's form download page.

    Alternatively, you can request forms by calling the Forms Distribution Center at (800) 418-3676 or the FCC Licensing Hotline at (877)480-3201. Request FCC Form 160 (for FRN registration) or Form 161 (for FRN registration information updates). Instructions for filling out the form will be attached. You will be required to provide the same information as any entity that registered electronically.

    You will have to mail the form to:

    Attention: FRN Administrator
    Financial Operations
    Federal Communications Commission
    45 L Street NE
    Washington, DC 20554

    Back to Top

  7. Do I need an FRN to use the FRN search function?

    8. You do not need an FRN to use the Search feature of CORES. Searches may be performed from the public interface without logging into the system.

    Back to Top

  8. Can I bookmark the FCC Registration site?

    9. Yes, you can bookmark the Commission Registration System and the FCC User Registration System.

    Back to Top

  9. Is there a list of forms/filings that require an FRN?

    10. Yes. The list is available on the FCC electronic filing page in the Commission Registration System section. It can also be found on the FCC form download page.

    Back to Top

  10. If I register for a username to access CORES, will that affect my ability to access other FCC systems?

    11. In addition to CORES, various other FCC systems have started allowing users to log in with their FCC Username. Some systems still require FRN and FRN-password to login. As an added feature, you will be able to log in to FCC systems that still require an FRN using your FRN and FRN-Password OR your FRN and Username-Password.

    Back to Top

    Close Window