PAC Code Guide: Text PAC to 65075

What Is a PAC Code?

A PAC code is a 9-character alphanumeric code (for example, ABC123456 — three letters followed by six numbers) that authorises the transfer of your phone number from one network to another. Every UK mobile network uses the same PAC system, whether you're with a major operator like EE, Three, O2, or Vodafone, or a smaller virtual network like giffgaff, SMARTY, or VOXI.

Your PAC code is valid for 30 days from the date it's issued. If it expires before you use it, you can simply request a new one at no cost — there's no limit on how many times you can request a PAC. Importantly, requesting a PAC code doesn't commit you to leaving your current network. Your existing contract continues as normal until the port actually happens, so you can request a PAC just to explore your options without any obligation.

The PAC system was introduced by Ofcom to make switching networks as painless as possible. Before July 2019, you often had to phone your network and sit through retention offers before they'd let you leave. Now, a simple text message is all it takes.

How to Get Your PAC Code

The fastest and easiest way to get your PAC code is to text PAC to 65075 from the phone with the number you want to keep. This works on every UK mobile network — no exceptions. You'll receive your PAC code by text within 60 seconds, along with information about any early termination charges or outstanding handset payments.

You can also get your PAC code through other methods:

• By phone — Call your network's customer service line. They must provide your PAC immediately or send it by text within 2 hours. Be aware that calling may lead to retention offers. • Online — Most networks let you request a PAC through your online account or app. The exact path varies by network (see our individual network guides below). • In store — If your network has physical shops (like EE, Three, O2, or Vodafone), you can request your PAC in person.

Whichever method you choose, your network cannot charge you for providing a PAC code, and they cannot refuse to issue one. Under Ofcom rules, they can inform you about any costs you'll face (like early termination charges), but they cannot use this as a barrier to switching.

If you have multiple phone numbers on the same account (such as a family plan), you may need to call your network directly rather than using the text method, as each number needs its own individual PAC code.

How to Use Your PAC Code

Once you have your PAC code, give it to your new mobile network. Exactly how you do this depends on the network you're joining:

• During checkout — Most networks ask for your PAC code when you order a new SIM or phone contract online. There's usually a field during the checkout process where you can enter it. • After receiving your SIM — If you didn't provide your PAC during checkout, you can usually submit it through your new network's online account, app, or by calling their customer service. • In store — If you're signing up in a physical shop, the staff will take your PAC code and process the port for you.

Once your new network receives your PAC, the number transfer typically completes within 1 working day. If you submit your PAC before 5pm on a working day, the switch should happen by the end of the next working day at the latest.

On switch day, you'll experience a brief loss of mobile service — usually a few minutes to a couple of hours. Insert your new SIM card (or activate your eSIM), and your service should be restored by 10pm that day. Your old contract is automatically cancelled once the port completes, so there's no need to contact your previous network to close your account.

If the switch doesn't happen when expected, contact your new network first. Under Ofcom rules, if your switch is delayed beyond one working day, your new provider may owe you compensation.

What Is a STAC Code?

A STAC code (Service Termination Authorisation Code) works similarly to a PAC code but is used when you want to leave your current network without keeping your phone number. You might use a STAC code if you want a completely fresh start with a new number, or if you're cancelling a secondary SIM you no longer need.

To get a STAC code, text STAC to 75075 from your phone. Like PAC codes, your network must provide it quickly, for free, and within 60 seconds by text. A STAC code is also valid for 30 days.

The key difference: with a PAC code your number moves to your new network, while with a STAC code your number is retired and your contract simply ends. If you're unsure which to use, a PAC code is almost always the better choice — you can always get a new number later, but once your old number is retired, you can't get it back.

Checking Your Switching Info First

Before committing to a switch, it's worth knowing exactly where you stand with your current contract. Text INFO to 85075 from your phone to receive a free text with your key account details, including:

• Your contract end date • Any early termination charges you'd face • Outstanding handset payments remaining • Your PAYG credit balance (if applicable)

Texting INFO does not trigger a switch or commit you to leaving — it's purely informational. This is useful for comparing the cost of leaving early against the savings you'd make by switching now.

You can switch at any point during your contract; you don't have to wait until it ends. However, if you're still within your minimum term, you may need to pay an early termination fee which typically decreases each month. Once your minimum term has passed, you're free to switch with no penalties beyond your final monthly bill.

Note that any remaining PAYG credit is usually lost when you switch networks, so it's worth using it up or checking whether your network offers a refund before porting your number.