Relay Services

Overview

7-1-1 is the national number used for accessing Relay Services throughout the United States. 

Anyone using landline technology such as a teletypewriter (TTY/TDD/VCO/HCO) needs the Relay Service
to connect with you on any phone, landline or cellular.  People with speech impairment also use the Relay Service. 
If a Relay service user is calling you, the human Calling Assistant (CA) would explain what is going on in 
simple terms and the call will proceed. 
 
When calling a Relay user, that person should give you instructions to use 7-1-1, and their landline phone number. 
Upon dialing 7-1-1, you will hear a recording that explains the Relay Service. Stay on the line to 
connect to the human CA and provide them with the landline telephone number of the user. 
Relay is a turn-taking system. The users are encouraged to finish each communication with "GA" (Go Ahead). 
This turn-taking goes back and forth until the conversation is done and both parties say or type SK which means Stop Keying (hang up). 
Please note that 7-1-1 is NOT an emergency number and should not be confused with 9-1-1 for emergency calls. 
In case of emergency, dial 9-1-1 directly to get help fast.

Yep, it's that simple! You can access the AZRS through the toll-free number. 

For more information on the TRS program and its services, contact [email protected]

If you have suggestions, comments, concerns or would like to file a complaint with the FCC, please visit our Feedback page.

 

Text to 9-1-1 available throughout Arizona

All Arizona counties implemented Text-to-9-1-1 in 2018.  Watch THIS video to learn more.  

Arizona has established the following motto for emergency communications: "Call if you can, text if you can't."
While calling, even through relay services, remains the preferred method of communication whenever possible, texting offers several critical advantages in situations where verbal communication is impossible or risky. Specifically, texting provides a silent, discreet way to request help and automatically creates a verifiable record of the interaction.
Key Reasons to Text 9-1-1:    
  • Safety Concerns: If hiding from an intruder, in a dangerous domestic situation, or during an abduction where speaking would endanger you.
  • Hearing/Speech Impairment: For individuals who are deaf, hard-of-hearing, or have speech disabilities.
  • Medical Incapacity: When a medical emergency (like anaphylaxis or severe injury) prevents you from speaking clearly or at all.
  • Loud Environments: In noisy places like concerts or bars where it's hard to be heard over the phone.
  • Weak Signal: Sometimes a weak cellular signal supports texts better than a voice call.
How to Text 9-1-1:
  • Be Clear & Concise: Send your location (address), the emergency type (police, fire, medical), and details immediately.
  • Use Full Words: Avoid slang, emojis, or abbreviations.
  • Stay Engaged: Be ready to answer dispatcher questions and follow instructions.
  • No Photos/Videos: Don't send media as it's often not supported and delays help.