KB Article: Government Emergency Telecommunications Service (GETS) Guide

Target Audience: Emergency Responders, Critical Staff, and City Leadership

​

What is GETS?

The Government Emergency Telecommunications Service (GETS) is a priority calling service provided by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). It ensures that authorized personnel can complete mission-critical calls when public telephone networks are congested or degraded during a disaster.

  • Priority Treatment: Using your GETS PIN moves your call to the front of the queue, significantly increasing the likelihood of connection during network overloads.

​

Usage Guidelines

Use GETS For:

  • Coordinating emergency operations
  • Reporting critical infrastructure damage
  • Communicating with state/federal partners

Do NOT Use For:

  • Routine, non-emergency business
  • Personal phone calls
  • General long-distance calling

​

How to Place a GETS Call

Option 1: From a Landline or VOIP Phone

  1. Dial the Universal Access Number: 1-710-627-4387 (1-710-NCS-GETS).
  2. Enter your 12-digit PIN: Found on the front of your GETS card.
  3. Enter the Destination Number: Dial the 10-digit number (Area Code + Phone Number).
    • Note: Do NOT dial '1' before the destination number.
  4. Stay on the line: In severe congestion, you may hear silence or tones. Do not hang up; the system is working to route your call.

Option 2: From a WPS-Enabled Cell Phone (Recommended)

If your city-issued device has Wireless Priority Service (WPS), use this method for end-to-end priority:

  1. Dial: *272 + 1-710-627-4387
  2. Press SEND/CALL.
  3. Follow Prompts: Enter your 12-digit PIN and the 10-digit destination number.

​

Alternate Access Numbers

If the primary 710 number fails, use these carrier-specific backups found on the back of your card:

  • AT&T: 1-888-288-4387 or 1-877-646-4387
  • Verizon: 1-800-900-4387 or 1-855-400-4387
  • Sprint/T-Mobile: 1-800-257-8373 or 1-855-333-4387

​

Testing & Troubleshooting

Periodic Testing: It is highly recommended to test your card quarterly. Follow the standard dialing steps and use your own desk phone as the destination.

  • PTS Dialer App: Search your mobile app store for the*"PTS Dialer"* app. It automates the dialing strings and PIN entry for you.
  • 24/7 User Assistance: Call 1-800-818-4387 if you have trouble using the service.

​

Key Contacts

  • City EOC / Emergency Management: For card eligibility, renewals, or training.
  • City IT Help Desk: For hardware-specific issues or WPS enabling on mobile devices.