What is a PAC Code? UK Guide to Keeping Your Number

Want to switch mobile networks but keep your number? You need a PAC code. Here's everything you need to know.

What is a PAC Code?

PAC stands for Porting Authorisation Code.

It's a unique 9-character code that allows you to transfer your mobile number from one network to another.

Example PAC code: ABC123456

Why You Need a PAC Code

When you switch networks, you have two options:

Option 1: Get a New Number - Simple process - Instant activation - But you lose your existing number

Option 2: Keep Your Number (Use PAC) - Transfer existing number to new network - Takes 1 working day - All contacts can still reach you

Most people choose Option 2.

How to Get Your PAC Code

Method 1: Text (Fastest) Text PAC to 65075 from the phone number you want to keep.

You'll receive your code within 60 seconds.

Method 2: Call Your Network Ring your current provider and request a PAC code.

They're legally required to provide it immediately.

Method 3: Online Account Log into your network's website/app and request PAC in settings.

Network Contact Numbers: - EE: 150 - Vodafone: 191 - O2: 202 - Three: 333 - giffgaff: 43430 - Smarty: Online chat only

How Long is a PAC Code Valid?

PAC codes expire after 30 days.

If you don't use it within 30 days, you'll need to request a new one.

Pro tip: Request your PAC when you're ready to switch, not "just in case."

How to Use Your PAC Code

Step 1: Get PAC from Old Network Text PAC to 65075 or call your provider.

Step 2: Order New SIM Choose your new network and SIM plan. Learn about <a href="/guides/what-is-sim-only-deal" class="text-primary hover:underline font-medium">SIM-only deals</a> to compare options.

Step 3: Provide Your PAC Code During Sign-Up Give your PAC code when ordering. You can do this: - During online checkout - By calling new provider - Through their mobile app

Step 4: Choose Switch Date Select when you want the switch to happen (usually next working day).

Step 5: Insert New SIM On switch day, insert your new SIM. Your old one stops working automatically.

Timeline: From providing PAC to activation = 1 working day

What Happens After You Provide PAC?

1. Old network is notified of your intention to leave 2. Number porting begins behind the scenes 3. Switch happens on date you specified 4. Old SIM stops working automatically 5. New SIM activates with your old number

No action needed from you after providing the code.

Does Using PAC End My Contract?

If You're Out of Contract: Yes, using a PAC automatically cancels your old service. No early exit fees.

If You're In Contract: Yes, but you'll be charged early termination fees for remaining months.

Example: 8 months left at £10/month = £80 exit fee

Check your contract end date before requesting PAC. Learn about SIM-only vs contract costs.

PAC vs STAC: What's the Difference?

PAC (Porting Authorisation Code) - Use: Keep your number when switching - Get it: Text PAC to 65075 - Result: Number transfers to new network

STAC (Service Termination Authorisation Code) - Use: Cancel service and GET a new number - Get it: Text STAC to 75075 - Result: Service ends, number not transferred

Most people want PAC, not STAC.

Common PAC Code Questions

Can I Get PAC if I Owe Money? Yes, but you still need to pay outstanding balance to old network.

Can I Use PAC on Pay As You Go? Yes, PAC works for both contract and PAYG numbers. Learn about <a href="/guides/pay-as-you-go-vs-monthly-sim" class="text-primary hover:underline font-medium">PAYG vs monthly SIMs</a>.

Will I Lose My Contacts? No, contacts are stored on your phone/SIM, not linked to your network.

Will I Lose WhatsApp Messages? No, WhatsApp is tied to your phone number, which stays the same.

Can I Switch and Keep Same Phone? Yes, if your phone is unlocked. If it's locked to old network, request unlocking first (usually free after contract ends).

What If I Don't Want to Keep My Number? Don't use a PAC. Just order new SIM and it comes with a new number.

Can I Cancel a PAC Request?

Yes, simply don't provide the PAC code to a new network.

If you've already given it to a new provider, contact them ASAP to cancel the port.

Note: Once porting begins, it's hard to stop. Act quickly.

Tips for Smooth Switching

Before Requesting PAC: 1. Check contract end date (avoid exit fees) 2. Pay any outstanding bills 3. Check new network coverage in your area 4. Back up important texts if needed

After Receiving PAC: 1. Order new SIM immediately (PAC expires in 30 days) 2. Choose switch date carefully (avoid important events) 3. Keep old SIM until switch complete (backup) 4. Expect 1-2 hours without service during switch

What If Something Goes Wrong?

Issue 1: New SIM Not Working After Switch Solution: Restart phone, check APN settings, contact new provider.

Issue 2: Old Number Not Transferred Solution: Contact new provider immediately with PAC code reference.

Issue 3: Service Interrupted for Too Long Solution: Both networks are liable. Contact Ofcom if not resolved quickly.

Making the Most of Your Switch

Switching networks is the perfect time to: - Downgrade data if you're not using full allowance - Move to SIM-only if phone paid off - Try budget network for same coverage at lower cost - Get promotional deal (new customers get best offers)

Ready to get started?

Start your seamless SIM switch today!

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Bottom Line

Getting and using a PAC code is simple: 1. Text PAC to 65075 2. Order new SIM 3. Provide PAC code 4. Wait 1 working day 5. New SIM activates with your old number

The entire process takes less than a week, and you keep your number forever.

Ready to switch? Browse our best SIM-only deals and keep your existing number with a simple PAC code transfer.