> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.limecall.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.limecall.com/start-here/quickstart-virtual-number.md).

# Quick start: Virtual number

Buy a business number and route it to your team in about ten minutes.

Goal: a working business number that rings the right person.

Time: about 10 minutes, plus verification time in regulated countries.

## 1. Open the number catalogue

Open **Phone Numbers → Buy a number**. Choose the country, then filter by area code, or by whether you want a local or toll-free number.

Each result shows its capabilities — voice, SMS, MMS — and its monthly price. Not every number does everything; if you intend to text from it, check SMS is listed before you buy.

{% hint style="info" %}
Numbers require a paid plan. If you are on a trial, the catalogue is visible but purchase is disabled until you upgrade.
{% endhint %}

## 2. Buy it

Select the number and confirm. It is attached to your account immediately and is billed monthly from that date.

Some countries require an address or identity document before a number can be issued. If so, you will be sent to **Addresses** and **Verification** to supply them — see [Addresses & verification](/virtual-numbers/address-and-verification.md). Approval usually takes a few business days.

## 3. Decide who answers it

On the number's row, set **Who answers your calls**. The options are:

| Destination             | What happens                                                        |
| ----------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| **Team member**         | Rings one person.                                                   |
| **Team**                | Rings a group, in the order that group is configured to use.        |
| **Forward to a number** | Rings an external number, such as a mobile or an existing landline. |
| **Voicemail**           | Goes straight to a recorded greeting.                               |
| **AI receptionist**     | Your AI answers, around the clock.                                  |

You can also set a different destination for **When busy** — useful for sending overflow to the AI while your team handles what they can.

## 4. Set the caller ID

Open the **Caller ID** tab and choose what recipients see when you call out. You can set a default for the account and override it per number.

To display a number you own outside LimeCall, verify it first — the same tab walks you through it.

## 5. Test it

Call the number from your mobile. Confirm it rings the destination you configured, and that hanging up produces a call record under **Calls**.

Then call it again and let it go unanswered, to check voicemail or the busy destination behaves as you expect.

## Next steps

* Text from the number: [SMS & messaging](/virtual-numbers/sms-and-messaging.md)
* Texting US numbers requires registration: [US carrier registration (10DLC)](/virtual-numbers/us-carrier-registration.md)
* Move an existing number to LimeCall: [Bring your number (porting)](/virtual-numbers/bring-your-number.md)
* Take calls on a desk phone or softphone: [Devices](/virtual-numbers/devices.md)