Introduction to STS Relay

What is Speech-to-Speech Relay Service?

Speech-to-Speech (STS) Relay Service is a type of Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS) that enables individuals with speech disabilities and/or who have difficulty being understood on the telephone to communicate on a telephone call through the assistance of a specially trained Communications Assistant (CA). The CA will serve to facilitate the communication back and forth between the person with the speech disability and the other person.  The STS CA has been trained to understand a variety of speech disorders and will clarify what is being said by repeating or re-voicing in a manner that is more easily understood by the other person.  There is no special equipment or special type of telephone required to use the service.

The California Speech-to-Speech Relay Service is part of the California Relay Service (CRS), a program of the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). There is no charge to use this service; the caller only pays for the cost of the call, if any. Please check with your carrier to determine if toll or long distance charges apply.

Who can use the Speech-to-Speech Relay Service?

Anyone who has difficulty being understood on the telephone is able to use STS. This includes people who have Cerebral Palsy, Multiple Sclerosis, Muscular Dystrophy, Aphasia, Dysarthria,  Parkinson's disease, and those who are coping with limitations from a stroke or traumatic brain injury. Additionally, people who stutter or have had a laryngectomy can use the service.

People with speech disabilities can use their own voice or can use an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) device to communicate. Anyone who wishes to call someone with a speech disability also can use STS. STS calls can be placed by or to people with speech disabilities for any reason; business, personal, personal or informational (i.e. 411, 311, etc.).