PAC Code Explained: How to Get It, Use It, and Track Your Number Transfer

Dec 22, 2025

A PAC code lets you switch mobile provider and keep your phone number. It’s the standard UK switching method for moving your number to a new network while keeping the same digits for banking, WhatsApp, 2FA logins, business cards, adverts, and signage.

Quick answer

To get a PAC code (one number): text PAC to 65075. Your provider sends a PAC and switching info. Give the PAC to your new provider to move your number.

  • PAC validity: typically 30 days
  • Switch time: often completes within about 1 working day after your new provider receives the PAC
  • Don’t want to keep your number? request a STAC instead (text STAC to 75075)

Switching forms (official):

PAC codes by network

If you searched for a specific provider, use the matching guide:

O2 PAC Code How to get it, use it, and common fixes Vodafone PAC Code Steps, timings, and troubleshooting EE PAC Code How to request + what to do if delayed Three PAC Code How to get it and switch smoothly

1) PAC vs STAC vs “change my number”

Choose the right route first. This prevents most switching problems.

What you want Use this How to request What happens
Keep your number and switch provider PAC Text PAC to 65075 (one number) or request online/phone (multiple) Your number moves to the new provider. Old service ends at switch.
Get a new number when switching provider STAC Text STAC to 75075 (one number) or request online/phone Your old service ends. You start fresh on a new number.
New number but stay with same provider Number change Ask your provider in-app / online / support Your old number stops being yours; update accounts that use your number.

2) What is a PAC code?

PAC stands for Porting Authorisation Code. It’s issued by your current provider so your new provider can request the transfer (“port”) of your number.

Tip: Don’t cancel early unless you know what you’re doing. The cleanest process is to request the PAC (or STAC) and let the switching process align the end date.

3) How to get a PAC code (UK)

Switching one number

  1. On your phone, text PAC to 65075.
  2. Your provider replies with your PAC and switching information.
  3. Give the PAC to your new provider during sign-up/activation.

Switching multiple numbers

If you’re moving multiple lines (family or business), request a PAC via your provider’s online account or by phone and schedule the port date with the new provider.

4) How to use your PAC (step-by-step)

  1. Order your new SIM or set up your eSIM with the new provider.
  2. When asked, enter/provide your PAC.
  3. Keep your old SIM active until the transfer day.
  4. On the transfer day, your old SIM usually loses service first — then your new SIM/eSIM should take over with your number.
  5. Test calls, SMS and data. Restart your phone once if anything looks “stuck”.

5) Timeline: what happens on switch day?

  • Before switch: old SIM works as normal.
  • During switch window: short loss of service can happen (normal).
  • After completion: new SIM/eSIM works using your existing number.

6) How to track your number transfer

There isn’t a universal tracking page for every provider, but these checks work:

  • Old SIM status: if it still has signal and works, the port likely hasn’t completed.
  • New SIM status: if service works but shows a temporary number, port may still be pending.
  • Caller ID test: call another phone and see what number displays.
  • Provider app: check for a scheduled port date/time.

7) Troubleshooting: common issues

PAC expired

If your PAC is older than 30 days, request a new one (text PAC to 65075 again).

PAC rejected / “invalid code”

  • Check you entered it exactly.
  • Confirm it matches the exact number you’re porting.
  • If switching multiple lines, use the correct multi-line process.

Transfer delayed

Contact your new provider first (they control the port request). Ask for port status, the scheduled time window, and escalation if needed.

Calls work but SMS doesn’t (or vice versa)

  • Restart your phone and toggle airplane mode.
  • If it continues, ask your provider to re-provision voice/SMS after port completion.

8) PAC vs STAC (if you want a new number instead)

If you’re switching provider but don’t want to keep your current number, request a STAC (Service Termination Authorisation Code). This ends your old service and you start on a new number.

9) Buying a memorable number first?

If your goal is a better number (not just switching), you can choose a premium number first and then connect it to your preferred UK network.

FAQ

How do I get a PAC code?

Text PAC to 65075 (single number), or request via your online account or phone support.

How long does a PAC code last?

A PAC is typically valid for 30 days. If it expires, request a new one.

How long does it take to transfer a number with a PAC?

Often around one working day after you give the PAC to your new provider (sometimes scheduled).

Do I have to pay for a PAC code?

No — it should be provided free of charge, along with switching information.

What if my transfer is delayed?

Start by contacting the new provider (they run the port request). If the delay is beyond the normal window, ask for status and escalation.

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