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Pay Telephones

The State Corporation Commission regulates certain aspects of the payphone industry to insure quality service to consumers. Payphone rates, however, are determined by the marketplace and are not regulated by the SCC. The following information is offered as a guideline to payphone usage:

  • The following calls from payphones are free:
    • Emergency (911) Local exchange operator
    • Toll-free numbers (800, 877, 950)
    • Long distance access codes (101 XXXX-0)
    • Virginia Telecommunications Relay Service (711)
  • There are charges for the following calls from payphones:
    • Local
    • Long distance
    • Directory assistance
  • The following information should be displayed on all payphones in Virginia:
    • The cost of a local call
    • How to reach emergency services
    • The location and number of the payphone
    • Toll-free numbers for refunds, service, and complaints
    • The name, address, and free contact number for the owner of the payphone
    • The identity and free contact information for the long distance carrier
  • Money-saving tips when using payphones:
    • Use coins or pre-paid calling cards for local calls, whichever is cheaper. Pre-paid calling cards can be inexpensive to purchase and are widely available.
    • When using operator assistance to make a local or long distance call, ask for a rate quote prior to completing the call. Local and long distance rates are not regulated, and prices vary widely.
  • If you have questions or complaints about payphones:
    • For refunds, billing, or service complaints, contact the payphone service provider posted on the payphone.
  • If further assistance is needed, contact the State Corporation Commission: