Texting buyers without breaking the rules
Buyers like to text. Opt-in, STOP, sensible hours and an assistant that says it is an AI keep it that way.
Texting is marketing, and marketing has rules
A text to a buyer about a vehicle is marketing. Federal and New York rules cover it, and your dealership has its own policy on top. This is not legal advice. Check your store's policy with your manager before you start.
Only text people who opted in
Get the buyer's permission first and keep a record of it. Carrier guidance from the CTIA asks for clear calls to action, a confirmed opt-in for recurring messages and honored opt-outs.
Always honor STOP
When a buyer replies STOP, stop. Don't argue, and don't text them from another number.
Mind the clock
New York's telemarketing law covers text messages (National Law Review) and limits telemarketing to 8 AM to 9 PM at the customer's location (the current-law text quoted in NY Assembly bill A7939-B).
If an AI helps, it says so
The FCC has confirmed that AI-generated voices count as "artificial" voices under the TCPA, so calls that use them need the called party's prior consent (FCC-24-17). California already bans undisclosed bots used to encourage a sale (BPC § 17941).
OkieDokie's assistant always says it is an AI, answers truthfully if asked, and hands price, trade-in and financing questions to you.
Read more in the agent inbox and agent phone guide.