What Is an FTC Registered Identification Number (RN)?

FTC Registered Identification Number (RN) A voluntary FTC-issued number that eligible U.S. textile, wool, and fur businesses may use on labels instead of the company name.

The FTC Registered Identification Number (RN) is an alternative identifier businesses can place on textile, wool, and fur product labels in lieu of printing their full company name and address. The RN is issued by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and is intended to simplify labeling while keeping the business traceable for consumers and regulators. Merchants, manufacturers, importers, and wholesalers who meet the eligibility criteria can apply for and display an RN on required product tags and labels.

Why The RN Exists

The RN system was designed to streamline compliance with labeling laws that require disclosure of manufacturer or responsible company identification. Using a number reduces label clutter, helps brands protect trade dress, and makes the basic identity information machine-readable and consistent for enforcement and consumer inquiries. The RN doesn't replace other mandatory label elements such as fiber content, country of origin, care instructions, or size — it only substitutes the textual company name and address requirement.

Who Can Use An RN

Eligibility is limited to businesses operating in the United States that are involved with textiles, wool, or fur products. Typical eligible entities include:

• Manufacturers: Firms that produce garments, home textiles, or fur articles in the U.S.
• Importers: Companies that import textiles and apparel into the U.S. and must label imported goods.
• Distributors and Wholesalers: Businesses that market products under their name and are responsible for compliance.

Foreign companies generally cannot obtain an RN; importers or U.S.-based agents often apply when the foreign manufacturer lacks a U.S. identity on labels.

How To Apply And Manage An RN

Applications are submitted to the FTC through the RN database system. The process is straightforward and typically requires basic company information and a contact person. Once issued, the RN becomes public in the FTC's searchable database so retailers, consumers, and enforcement agencies can resolve which company a number represents.

• Application method: Online request via the FTC RN portal.
• Information required: Business name, business address, responsible contact, and type of business activity.
• Duration and changes: RNs do not expire, but contact details and ownership changes should be updated in the database to remain accurate.

Labeling Rules And Practical Use

When using an RN on a label, companies must still include all other label elements required by the Textile Fiber Products Identification Act (TFPIA), Wool Products Labeling Act, or Fur Products Labeling Act, as applicable. The RN may be used horizontally or vertically on tags; it should be legible and placed where the company name would otherwise appear.

• Placement: On the same label that contains required fiber content and care information, or on a hangtag if allowed by the specific rules.
• Readability: Font size and contrast should permit easy consumer reading and scanning when necessary.
• Complementary marks: Some brands include both the RN and a trademark; the RN does not affect trademark rights.

How RNs Affect Compliance And Enforcement

Regulators and consumer protection agencies use the RN database to trace product responsibility in market surveillance and enforcement actions. For retailers and 3PLs, an accurate RN makes it faster to confirm suppliers and resolve label disputes. For importers, an RN on an imported garment clarifies who is considered the responsible entity under U.S. law.

Common Misunderstandings

Two frequent misconceptions are that an RN replaces all label content or that it conveys a safety certification. Neither is true: the RN only replaces the textual business name and address, and it is not a quality or safety mark.

Tips For Retailers And Brand Owners

• Label Audit: Verify that every style carries required fiber, origin, care, and identification information — RNs included when used.
• Database Check: Use the FTC RN lookup to confirm supplier numbers before accepting shipments.
• Update Records: If you change a responsible company or contact, update the RN listing promptly to avoid compliance gaps.

In short, the FTC Registered Identification Number (RN) is a practical labeling option that simplifies how eligible textile, wool, and fur businesses display their identity on products while preserving regulatory traceability and helping retailers and regulators quickly identify responsible parties.