RN Numbers and CA Identification Numbers on Clothing Labels

If you’ve ever examined the care and content label of your clothing, you’ve likely noticed a small RN and CA number for clothing labels printed somewhere on the tag. But what does it mean?

❓ What is an RN number used for?
❓ Is it required for clothing brands?
❓ How do you get an RN or CA number for your business?

This guide will break down everything you need to know about RN and CA numbers, why they matter in the textile and apparel industry, and how they can benefit your business.

What Is an RN Number?

RN stands for Registered Number, which is issued by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to U.S.-based businesses involved in the manufacturing, importing, distributing, or selling of textile, wool, or fur products.

However, having an RN number is NOT required. Some companies apply for an RN number voluntarily and use it in place of their business name on product labels.

Why Do Brands Use RN Numbers?

🔹 Privacy & Branding – Instead of printing a full company name on a clothing label, some businesses opt for an RN number.
🔹 Regulatory Compliance – While not mandatory, RN numbers simplify labeling for businesses dealing in multiple textile products. For brands preparing to sell in retail stores, understanding barcode compliance is just as important as labeling rules. If you’re unsure how UPC requirements work or whether GS1 codes are necessary, read our guide on UPC codes for retail and GS1 requirements.
🔹 Industry Standard Practice – Many established clothing brands, manufacturers, and importers register for an RN number to streamline their labeling process.

Want to check an RN number or apply for one? You can do so through the FTC’s official RN lookup tool:
🔗 FTC RN Lookup & Registration

Where Can You Use an RN Number?

Once assigned, an RN number can be used across all product types within the same company. This includes:

✔ Woven labels – Stitched directly onto garments
✔ Care & content labels – Printed inside clothing
✔ Hangtags – Attached externally for branding & compliance
✔ Heat transfer labels – Tagless label printing

🔹 One company = One RN number
🔹 No need for a new RN for every garment, size, or style

If your business produces multiple textile products, a single RN number ensures consistency across all labels.

How to Get an RN Number?

✅ RN numbers are free
✅ Issued by the FTC
✅ Typically assigned within a few days

If your business is involved in the textile industry, obtaining an RN number is a simple process. You can apply directly through the FTC website:
🔗 Apply for an RN Number

CA Identification Number (For Canadian Businesses)

For businesses in Canada, there is an equivalent identification system known as a CA Identification Number.

Who Can Apply for a CA Identification Number?

✔ Canadian manufacturers, processors, or finishers of textile fiber products
✔ Canadian importers or sellers of textile goods

🔗 Apply for a CA Identification Number

Final Thoughts: Do You Need an RN Number?

🔹 Not required, but useful for businesses in textiles
🔹 Helps with branding, privacy, and compliance
🔹 Free and easy to obtain from the FTC

Whether you’re a manufacturer, importer, or retailer, an RN and CA number for clothing labels can be a helpful tool to simplify textile labeling and regulatory compliance.

At Rapidtags™, we specialize in woven labels, heat transfer labels, and custom garment tags—ensuring that your brand’s labels are professionally crafted and fully compliant.

📞 Have questions? Call us at 877-438-8247
📧 Email us at sales@rapidtags.com

Helpful Links & Resources

🔗 FTC Guide to Textile Labeling