What is the character limit for the WhatsApp template name?

What is the character limit for the WhatsApp template name?

⚡Quick answer -

The template name in MyOperator must follow Meta’s strict format rules to be accepted. These rules ensure smooth API processing and compliance with WhatsApp Business Platform guidelines.

Character Limit

  • Minimum: 1 character
  • Maximum (technical): 512 characters
  • Best practice: Keep names under 50 characters for readability and easier management.

Invalid Characters

Template names cannot include:

  • Spaces → order confirmation 🚫
  • Special characters → order#update, order@2024 🚫
  • Uppercase letters → OrderUpdate 🚫

Valid Format

  • Use only lowercase letters, numbers, and underscores.
  • Must be unique across your WhatsApp Business Account.

Examples

Template Name

Valid?

Reason

order_update_123

✅ Yes

Uses lowercase letters, numbers, and underscores only

OrderUpdate2024

❌ No

Contains uppercase letters

order update

❌ No

Contains a space

order#update

❌ No

Contains a special character #

What Happens If You Violate the Rules?

  • You will not be able to proceed ahead creating the template.
  • MyOperator will show an error message.
  • You’ll need to rename and resubmit following the correct format.

Image for Template Name Instructions

Best Practices for Naming Templates

  • Keep names short and descriptive (under 50 characters).
  • Use prefixes by use case for easier management:
    • order_update_2024
    • promo_summer_sale
    • otp_login_flow
  • Avoid generic names like template1 — they make it harder to track usage later.

✨ Pro Tip: Treat template names as internal identifiers — customers won’t see them, but clear, consistent naming will save time for your team during approvals, audits, and reporting.