Information in this page includes the following topics on telecommunication certification:

• Certification Information

• Certificate of Authority Determination

• Filing Instructions

• Tariff Filing Checklist

A checklist to help you determine if you need a certificate of authority from the Public Utilities Commission. Download File 

Applications

Certificate of Authority Application

Coin and Non-Coin Pay Phone Application

Certification and Assessments

All telecommunications carriers, telephone companies and service resellers must file an application with the department for a "certificate of authority" to do business in Minnesota. Initial applications must be accompanied by a $570 filing fee. These costs are based on the time required to complete the process. In addition, telecommunications providers pay an annual assessment, based on gross state revenues, imposed on all regulated telecommunications service providers. Contact 651-296-0391 for more information.

New providers of telecommunications services should understand the steps and data flows involved when a company becomes integrated within the telecommunications industry. Download Network and Routing Resources Educational Document: Intercompany Responsibilities in the Telecommunications Industry for a good explanation. The Alliance for Telecommunications Industry Solutions has additional documents at its web site that may be of interest to your company.

Fees

As a regulated telecommunications carrier, in addition to federal, state, and municipal taxes, you are required to assess and collect fees for 911, Telephone Assistance Plan (TAP), and Telecommunications Access Minnesota (TAM). For further information on these fees, visit the Minnesota Department of Public Safety website at www.911.state.mn.us.

Certified telecommunication carriers may decide to change or end operations in Minnesota. Listed in this document are instructions for some of the most common filings carriers must submit. Updated May 27, 2010. Download filing instructions here.