My Mobiles

Switch from Three to iD Mobile

Keep your phone number when you switch from Three to iD Mobile. Here's how in 3 simple steps.

Updated July 2026

Switching from Three to iD Mobile lets you stay on the same underlying Three network while potentially paying less for your plan. iD Mobile is a virtual network operator that uses Three's infrastructure, so you should experience the same coverage you are used to. The main draw is iD Mobile's competitive pricing, data rollover feature, and built-in spending caps to prevent bill shock.

Important Warning

Do NOT cancel your contract manually. If you cancel before transferring your number, you will lose it permanently. Your old contract will automatically cancel once the transfer completes.

Pre-Switch Checklist

  • Back up your data: Contacts, voicemails, and saved messages won't transfer.
  • Unlock your phone: Ensure it's not locked to your old network if you plan to keep using it.
  • Check Early Termination Fees: Text INFO to 85075 to see if you'll incur charges for leaving early.

How to Switch from Three to iD Mobile

1

Get your PAC code from Three

Text PAC to 65075 from your Three phone and your PAC code will arrive via text within 60 seconds. Alternatively, call Three on 333 from your Three handset or 0333 338 1001 from a different phone. You can also request it through your online account at three.co.uk. The PAC code will remain valid for 30 days from the date it is issued.

2

Give your PAC to iD Mobile

Go to idmobile.co.uk and choose a plan that suits your needs. During the sign-up process, opt to keep your existing phone number and enter the PAC code you received from Three. You can also call iD Mobile on 0333 003 7777 from any phone to place your order and provide the PAC code over the phone.

3

Wait 1 working day

Once iD Mobile processes your PAC code, your phone number will transfer from Three to iD Mobile within 1 working day. iD Mobile will send you a confirmation text with the scheduled transfer date. On that day, your Three SIM will stop working and your iD Mobile SIM will activate carrying your existing number. A short service interruption is normal during the switch.

Transfer Cut-off Times: Submitting your PAC code before 5:30 PM usually means your number will transfer the next working day. Submitting it after 5:30 PM or on weekends/bank holidays will add an extra working day to the process.

Final Bill: You'll receive a final bill from Three shortly after the transfer is complete. This covers your usage up to the date of the switch.

Things to Check Before Switching

Text INFO to 85075 from your Three phone to check your contract status and any charges for leaving early. Since iD Mobile uses Three's network, you should not notice any difference in coverage. However, check whether your Three phone is compatible with iD Mobile's plans and ensure any remaining device payments to Three are accounted for before switching.

Same Network Coverage

This is one of the simplest switches from a coverage perspective. iD Mobile operates as an MVNO on Three's own network, so your coverage and signal strength should remain virtually identical after the switch. You will connect to the same Three masts and benefit from the same 4G and 5G availability you had before, just under the iD Mobile brand.

Ready to Switch to iD Mobile?

Compare the latest iD Mobile phone deals and find the best plan for you.

Three to iD Mobile FAQ

If iD Mobile uses Three's network, why would I switch?
The main reasons are cost savings and additional features. iD Mobile often undercuts Three on pricing for similar data allowances, and includes features like data rollover and spending caps as standard, which Three may charge extra for or not offer at all.
Will my coverage change when switching from Three to iD Mobile?
No, your coverage should remain the same because iD Mobile uses Three's network infrastructure. You will connect to the same masts and experience the same signal strength and data speeds you had on Three.
Do I need to unlock my phone to move from Three to iD Mobile?
Three does not lock phones to its network, so your handset will already be unlocked and ready to use with an iD Mobile SIM. Since both use the same underlying Three network, compatibility is guaranteed.