The signal booster registration process is fairly straightforward, generally taking about five minutes to complete online[1][3]. As mandated by the FCC, carriers require customers to register their signal boosters to help prevent interference with cellular coverage and to ensure the devices operate within FCC guidelines[4][7][9]. Registration typically involves providing your name, address, the signal booster's make and model, and your carrier phone number[1]. T-Mobile also asks for the number of users using the booster[1][3].
Here's how the registration process varies among carriers:
* Verizon: Verizon's website includes a comprehensive section with a standard form to fill out and a FAQ section[1]. Verizon allows customers to view and update their information[5]. Verizon also "tentatively approves the use of consumer signal boosters currently in operation that do not meet the new network protection standards," but recommends that customers replace existing boosters with those that meet the new standards to avoid possible interference issues[5].
* T-Mobile: T-Mobile's signal booster registration page has a form to fill out[1]. Unique to T-Mobile is a request for the "number of users" that will be using a booster[5]. T-Mobile indicates that you should update your "signal booster location" when you move your device, using the same registration page[5].
* AT&T: AT&Tâs booster registration form requests the ownerâs name, operatorâs name (if different), contact phone number, booster make, model, and serial number, date of initial operation, and installed location[5]. AT&T's booster database appears to be static, requiring a new registration for updates[5].
* US Cellular: US Cellular requires subscribers to call 1-800-450-9857 to register their signal boosters[1].
* Sprint: Sprint had a consumer signal booster registration process that was completed via email, but after merging with T-Mobile, the registration link redirects to the T-Mobile registration system[3].
* Dish Wireless: As Dish Wireless' native network is 5G-only, the 4G booster registration process does not apply[5].
If your service provider is an MVNO (mobile virtual network operator) or reseller, you may need to register the booster with the major carrier whose network they use[3][5]. Contacting the major carrier by email may be necessary if their online method does not facilitate registration by their MVNO or reseller customers[3].
Citations:
[1] https://www.waveform.com/pages/guide-to-signal-booster-registration
[2] https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/DOC-349526A1.pdf
[3] https://www.signalbooster.com/pages/register-cell-phone-signal-booster
[4] https://www.ubersignal.com/blogs/articles/5-myths-about-cell-phone-signal-boosters-busted
[5] https://www.rvmobileinternet.com/guides/booster-registration/
[6] https://community.verizon.com/t5/Hotspots/Register-a-Signal-Booster/td-p/1712743
[7] https://www.t-mobile.com/support/coverage/register-a-signal-booster
[8] https://community.verizon.com/t5/Hotspots/Registering-cellphone-signal-booster/td-p/1730401
[9] https://www.pta.gov.pk/assets/media/ad_cons_paper_10102020.pdf