Numbering ResourcesCentral Office CodesCentral office codes, also known as exchanges, prefixes, or simply NXXs, are digits 4, 5 and 6 of a ten-digit geographic NANP telephone number. NANPA assigns central office codes to state-authorized local service providers using industry-developed guidelines and federal directives. Because the application and qualification process is complex, potential applicants should read and understand the guidelines. Applying for Central Office Code Assignments To apply for a central office code assignment, log into the NANP Administration System and complete the Part 1 form. NANPA has prepared a job aid to assist applicants for central office code assignments. In addition, NANPA has prepared a summary of helpful tips to assist new service providers in getting started with the code assignment process. NANPA has prepared a summary of the effects of the FCC's NRO orders on central office code administration. Of particular interest are the evidence of state certification required for initial code requests and the state-specific safety valve matrix. Special rules apply in area codes that are in "jeopardy," that is, in danger of running out of numbers before relief can be provided. In these areas, industry-developed jeopardy procedures specify important overrides to the central office code assignment process. Entering Rating and Routing Information Once NANPA has confirmed an assignment by returning a Confirmation of Assignment, known as a Part 3 form, to the applicant, the applicant must arrange for the entry of Part 2 rating and routing data. Expediting Central Office Code Assignment In-Service Dates The process of getting a newly assigned central office code in service is lengthy; but, under certain circumstances described in the guidelines, the interval can be shortened. This is commonly referred to as a code expedite. This can be done only with the concurrence of the interconnecting tandem owner. Reporting Central Office Codes In-Service Once an assigned central office code is in service, the assignee uses the NANP Administration System to submit a completed Confirmation of Code In Service form, better known as a Part 4. NANPA has prepared a summary of the required fields on the Part 4 form. Reclaiming Central Office Codes NANPA must begin reclamation procedures if an assignee fails to return a Part 4 form within six months after the original effective date returned to the applicant on the Part 3 form and entered into the ACD screen in the BIRRDS database. The ultimate decision whether to reclaim a code or grant an extension is made by designated state or federal regulatory authorities. Service providers may designate individuals to serve as contacts for reclamation activities affecting their companies. Changing Assignment Information Central office code assignees should be aware that the guidelines require them to submit a change request to NANPA via a Part 1 CO Code (NXX) Assignment Request Form. This includes changes such as, but not limited to, the tandem homing arrangement, OCN, switching entity/POI and rate center (including a rate center consolidation). For OCN changes due to merger/acquisition, the SP must so state on the Part 1 form. Use the NANP Administration System for this purpose. Returning Central Office Codes Use the NANP Administration System to return central office codes that are no longer needed. Returning central office codes that contain ported numbers can disrupt customers with these ported numbers. The industry has developed a process to ensure that disruption does not occur. Central office code assignees intending to return codes containing ported numbers must follow this process. The process requires all central office code assignees to monitor the pending disconnects report (xls) to check for codes in which they have customers as a result of porting. Additional information on this topic may be found in Appendix C of the TBCOCAG. Obtaining Information About Central Office Code Assignments Extensive information about central office code assignments is available as described below.
|