Important changes are coming to the Text with 9-1-1 (T9-1-1) service. More information will be provided as it becomes available so check back regularly!
RTT9-1-1 is planned to be launched in 2028. If you are a T9-1-1 user that means that you will have access to emergency services by either using T9-1-1 or RTT9-1-1.
Both services will continue to run for a period of time after RTT9-1-1 is available, but it has not yet been decided how long. Eventually, the T9-1-1 program will be shut down and fully replaced by RTT9-1-1.
RTT9-1-1 will be an improvement over the T9-1-1 service because:
- You do not need to register to use it
- It offers faster, two-way communication.
- It is available to all Canadians with access to NG9-1-1.
Transition – Text with 9-1-1 FAQs
Q1: I am registered with Text with 9-1-1. Do I need to sign up again for RTT9-1-1?
A1: No. RTT9-1-1 will be available if you have a compatible phone. There is no need to sign up for it.
Q2: Do I need to confirm that I am Deaf, Hard of Hearing or Speech Impaired?
A2: No.
Q3: Will RTT9-1-1 be available everywhere?
A3: RTT9-1-1 will only be available in the areas where NG9-1-1 is available. To check availability, visit NG9-1-1 and RTT9-1-1 Availability.
Q3: Can I still use Text with 9-1-1?
A3: Yes. There will be a period of time where both services will be available. During this overlap you will be able to use T9-1-1 and RTT9-1-1.
Q4: How will I know if my phone is RTT9-1-1 compatible?
A4: Your cell phone service provider will have a list of compatible cell phones on their websites.
Cell phone service providers can only confirm whether your cell phone is compatible if they sell it to you. Phones that are sold in other countries might not be able to access RTT.
Q5: Are T9-1-1 and RTT9-1-1 the same when I use them?
A5: No. T9-1-1 uses SMS texting so you and the call taker need to take turns when you send messages. RTT9-1-1 shows the message as it is typed so you and the call taker will communicate more like a conversation.
Q6: Will I still be able to sign-up for T9-1-1 once RTT9-1-1 is available?
A6: No. Once RTT9-1-1 is available, registrations will not be accepted for the T9-1-1 service. You should use RTT9-1-1 if you need to contact 9-1-1.
To learn more about how T9-1-1 works, visit: https://www.textwith911.ca/en/home/