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Text Telephone (TTY)

A person who is deaf, hard of hearing, deaf-blind, or speech-disabled types on a TTY to a relay operator, who reads the message to a hearing person and then types the hearing person’s spoken reply back to the TTY user.

Dial 711 or 1-800-735-2989

TTY user dial the TTY number, 711 or 1-800-735-2989. A Relay Texas Communications Assistant will answer.

Type in the area code and telephone number you wish to call and type “GA” (Go Ahead.) The Communication Assistant (CA) dials the number and connects to the other party. 

Customer Profile
TYY Diagram

How Does TTY to Voice Work?

A TTY (Text Telephone) is a device used by people who are deaf, hard-of-hearing, or have a speech disability, and you can use it to communicate if you have difficulty hearing or speaking on the phone.

 

1

A person who is deaf, hard of hearing, deaf-blind, or speech-disabled types a message on a TTY to the relay operator.

2

The relay operator reads the message aloud to the hearing person.

3

The hearing person responds by speaking.

4
The relay operator types the spoken reply back to the TTY user.

Relay Texas Customer Profile

The Relay Texas Customer Profile form allows consumers to list their preferences for calls, such as:

  • Frequently dialed numbers
  • Emergency numbers
  • Preferred gender of operator
  • Announcing relay service

As a consumer, you have flexibility in updating your preferences at any time.

Learn more
Customer Profile Mockup

FAQs

Have questions about using TTY services? We’re here to help. Below you’ll find answers to common questions about how TTY relay works, who can use it, and how to make the most of your Relay Texas experience.

How do I make a TTY call?

To make a TTY call, dial 711 or 1-800-735-2989 from your TTY device. A Relay Texas Communications Assistant (CA) will answer.

Type the area code and telephone number you want to reach, followed by “GA” (Go Ahead). The CA will dial the number, relay your typed message to the other party, and type their spoken reply back to you.
Is there a cost for using TTY relay?

There is no additional charge to use Relay Texas TTY services. All relay calls are billed as standard telephone calls based on the caller’s long-distance or local calling plan. The relay operator and service are free of charge.
What if I need emergency services (911)? TTY users should directly dial 911 for emergency assistance.

TTY calls to 911 are handled by specially trained operators who can quickly connect you to emergency responders. Relay Texas should not be used for emergencies, as it may delay response time.
Can I save my call preferences? Yes! You can create a Relay Texas Customer Profile, which lets you save your frequently dialed numbers, emergency contacts, preferred operator gender, and other call preferences.
This helps make your relay calls faster and more personalized.

Equipment Distribution

The Specialized Telecommunications Assistance Program (STAP) helps people who have a disability that interferes with their access to telephone networks purchase basic specialized assistive equipment or services.
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