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District of Columbia Relay: DBS (DeafBlind Service)

District of Columbia Relay: DBS (DeafBlind Service)

DeafBlind Service (DBS) allows people with combined hearing and vision loss to place and receive telephone calls. DBS users type their messages and read the other person’s responses, typed by the Communication Assistant (CA), on a braille display.

Placing Calls

  1. Using your specialized equipment, dial 711 or the toll-free number for your state.
  2. The CA will answer by identifying Relay and typing “NUMBER TO CALL PLS Q GA.”
  3. Provide the area code and telephone number you want to call, as well as any additional instructions.
  4. Once the call is connected, the CA will type everything said by the other party word for word, along with any background noises.
  5. When you read “GA,” it is your turn to respond. Type your message and add “GA” when you are ready for a response. The conversation will proceed in this manner until the call is complete.
  6. When you have completed your side of the conversation, type “GA to SK” to close your call.

Live Chat is available during the following hours:

Monday – Friday:
8:30 AM to 12:30 AM Eastern

Saturday, Sunday:
11:00 AM to 6:30 PM Eastern