DLT SMS Template Format: Variables and Examples
Short answer: A DLT template is the exact message text you register, with {#var#} marking each place that changes, such as a name, an amount or an OTP. When you send an SMS, the text must match a registered template; fixed words must be identical and only the variable parts may change. Even small differences in wording, spacing or punctuation can cause a message to be rejected.
Below are example templates by category, rules of thumb and a checklist. Always confirm the format on your operator's portal, since limits and rules can change. For a deeper overview of registration, see the DLT registration guide.
Last updated: 2 November 2026.
Example templates (adapt the wording to your brand)
| Category | Template text | What the variables are |
|---|---|---|
| OTP (transactional) | {#var#} is your OTP for logging in to Acme. Do not share it with anyone. | The code |
| Payment confirmation | Dear {#var#}, we received your payment of Rs {#var#} on {#var#}. Ref {#var#}. - Acme | Name, amount, date, reference |
| Order update (service) | Hi {#var#}, your order {#var#} has shipped and will arrive by {#var#}. - Acme | Name, order ID, date |
| Appointment reminder | Hello {#var#}, your appointment is on {#var#} at {#var#}. Reply to reschedule. - Acme Clinic | Name, date, time |
| Promotional | Acme sale: get {#var#} off on {#var#}. Valid till {#var#}. T&C apply. | Offer, product, date |
Rules of thumb
- Match exactly. The sent message must equal the registered template with variables replaced.
- One purpose per template. Do not squeeze an offer into a confirmation.
- Declare links and numbers. URLs and phone numbers in the message should be declared or whitelisted as the portal requires.
- Keep variables meaningful. Too many variables can look like unfiltered content and may be refused.
- Use the right header category. See promotional vs transactional SMS.
Pre-submission checklist
- The text is copied exactly from what your code will send.
- Every changing part is a variable, and nothing fixed is a variable.
- The brand name or header reference matches your registered header. See header registration.
- Spelling, spacing and punctuation are final.
- The category (OTP, service, promotional) is right.
After approval
Each approved template gets an ID. Pass the template ID with your send request through the SMS API or OTP API. To change wording, register a new template and update your code. See also delivery reports to check why a message failed.
DLT template questions
What does {#var#} mean in a DLT template?
It marks a place where the content changes per message, such as a name, an order number or an OTP.
Can I edit an approved template?
Generally you register a new template instead of editing, then update your code to use the new template ID.
Why was my template rejected?
Common reasons are the wrong category, content that reads as promotional, undeclared links, too many variables or a mismatch with the header.
Do I need a template for every message?
Yes. Each type of message you send needs a registered template.
Are the example templates ready to submit?
No. They show the format only. Write templates for your own content and brand and check them against your operator's rules.
Ready to unify your business communication?
Tell us what you want to send and on which channels, and our team will help you get set up on your own branded panel.