How to keep your phone number when you switch network.
Switching mobile network doesn’t mean losing the number everyone knows you by. You can take it with you in a few minutes, you don’t have to ring your old provider, and you won’t sit through a retention call. All it takes is a free text message and a code. The code is called a PAC (Porting Authorisation Code), and it tells your new provider that the number is yours and you’re happy to move it. Here is exactly what to do, in order. Ready to move? Compare live prices on our SIM only comparison.
Before you start: check your contract.
If you are still in contract, leaving early can cost you an early termination charge. Text INFO to 85075 and your provider will tell you whether you are in or out of contract. If you are out of contract, you are free to move whenever you like – and if you already own your phone, SIM only is usually the best value.
Step 1: text PAC to 65075.
From the phone with the number you want to keep, send a free text that says PAC to 65075. Your current provider must reply within one minute with your code, which is valid for 30 days. The reply also has to include anything you should know before you go, such as early termination charges or, on pay as you go, your remaining credit. Read it before you carry on. If nothing arrives, you can ask for the code by phone or on your provider’s website instead.
Step 2: give the code to your new provider.
Choose your new deal and give your PAC to the new provider when you sign up. If you don’t have it to hand, you can usually sign up first and send it afterwards – just make sure it reaches them before the 30 days are up.
Step 3: wait for your number to move.
Your new provider must complete the switch within one working day, and any loss of service must not last longer than one working day. Your new SIM will arrive in the post, so when your number moves over, pop it into your phone. Providers can’t sell locked phones, so a handset you already own should work with any network. If a switch is delayed or you are left without service for longer than allowed, you may be entitled to compensation. Your old provider also isn’t allowed to charge you a notice period after your switch date, so you shouldn’t end up paying for both deals at once.
Don’t need your old number? Use STAC.
If you’d rather start with a new number, text STAC to 75075 instead. This is a Service Termination Authorisation Code. It makes sure the switch is arranged for you without notice period charges or paying for your old and new contract at the same time.
More than one number on your account.
The text service works for a single number. If you have several on one account, such as a family plan, ask your provider for each code by phone or through their website.
Already cancelled? You can usually still keep it.
Even if you didn’t ask to keep your number when you cancelled, in most cases you can still transfer it to your new service within one month. If your old provider didn’t give you a PAC, contact them by phone or through their website to ask for one, then hand it to your new provider.
What if my code runs out?
Codes last 30 days. If yours expires before your new provider has it, text PAC to 65075 again for a fresh one.
Ready to switch?
Compare SIM only deals from every major UK network, see which network suits you in our best SIM only deals guide, or check the latest offers in our Black Friday SIM only deals guide. The steps above follow Ofcom’s guide to switching mobile provider, which is updated whenever the rules change.