PAC Code: What It Is, How to Get One, and Everything You Need to Know

By Andy Pickett · Managing Director

Published 18 February 2026 · Updated 15 April 2026 · About the author

Updated April 2026

⚡ Quick Answer — How to Get a PAC Code Instantly

Text PAC to 65075 from any UK mobile number to get your PAC code free in 60 seconds. Give the nine-character code to your new provider and your number transfers within one working day. It costs nothing and works on every UK network.

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A PAC code (Porting Authorisation Code) lets you keep your existing mobile number when you switch networks. It is your legal right under Ofcom’s switching regulations and every UK provider must issue one free of charge on request.

What is a PAC code?

PAC stands for Porting Authorisation Code. It is a unique nine-character code — three letters followed by six numbers (e.g. ABC123456) — that authorises the transfer of your existing mobile phone number from one network provider to another. If you are switching from Vodafone to EE, from O2 to Three, or from any UK network to any other, you need a PAC code to keep your current number. Without one, you would be assigned a brand-new number when you join your new provider.

PAC codes are sometimes searched for as “pac codes”, “pack code”, “pak code”, or “port code” — they all refer to the same thing: the code you need to port your mobile number. The process is formally called mobile number portability (MNP) and is a legal right for all UK mobile customers, both consumer and business, under Ofcom regulations.

There is a related code called a STAC code (Service Termination Authorisation Code). We cover the difference between PAC and STAC codes further down this page.

Key distinction: This is our comprehensive guide to PAC codes covering every UK network, business porting, troubleshooting, and detailed comparisons. If you just need the steps at a glance, see our quick-reference PAC code help article.

How do I get a PAC code?

Getting a PAC code in 2026 is straightforward. Under Ofcom rules introduced in 2019, all UK mobile providers must issue a PAC code when requested — and the fastest method takes under 60 seconds. Here are the four ways to get one:

1. Text for your PAC code (fastest method)

The quickest method is to text PAC to 65075 from the mobile number you want to keep. Your network must respond with your PAC code within one minute. This works on all major UK networks including Vodafone, EE, O2, Three, BT Mobile, Sky Mobile, giffgaff, and every MVNO.

Some networks require your date of birth for security verification — if prompted, text PACDDMMYY to 65075 (replacing DDMMYY with your date of birth, e.g. PAC150390).

2. Call your network provider

You can call your current provider’s customer services line and request a PAC code verbally. Be prepared for retention offers — your provider may try to convince you to stay, but they cannot legally refuse to issue the code. This method typically takes 10–20 minutes including hold time.

3. Request online or via your network’s app

Most networks allow you to request a PAC code through their website or app. Log into your account and look for the “switching”, “leaving”, or “transfer your number” section. This is useful if you cannot send a text from the handset in question.

4. Through your account manager (business mobiles)

For business mobile contracts managed by Connection Technologies, simply contact your dedicated account manager and we handle the entire PAC code process for you — including bulk transfers for multiple lines with zero downtime.

Comparison: PAC code request methods

Our pick: The text method (PAC to 65075) is the fastest and most reliable option for individuals. For businesses porting multiple numbers, let our team manage the process to avoid disruption and ensure ports are scheduled for minimal downtime.

How do I get a PAC code from every UK network?

Here is how to request a PAC code from each major UK mobile network in April 2026. Every provider supports the universal text method, but phone and online options vary:

Our recommendation: The text method (PAC to 65075) is the fastest and most reliable option across every network. It avoids retention calls, costs nothing, and you will have your code in under 60 seconds.

How long is a PAC code valid?

A PAC code is valid for 30 days from the date it is issued. If you do not use it within this period, it expires and you will need to request a new one. There is no charge for requesting a replacement, and there is no limit to how many times you can request a PAC code.

The 30-day validity window gives you time to compare deals, arrange a new contract, and choose the right provider without pressure. Your existing contract continues as normal until the PAC is actually used — simply requesting a PAC code does not cancel your current plan.

Key point: You only need to give the PAC code to your new provider before it expires. The actual number port then completes within one working day from that point.

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

Once you give your PAC code to your new network provider, the number transfer typically completes within one working day. The key cut-off is generally 5pm Monday to Friday — if your new provider submits the port request before this time, the transfer should complete by the end of the next working day.

During the port, there is usually a brief period of downtime (typically 1–3 hours) while the number switches between networks. You can still make emergency calls during this window but incoming calls and texts may not reach you. For this reason, many people schedule their port for a time when brief disruption is acceptable.

PAC code number transfer timeline

For businesses: If you are porting multiple numbers simultaneously, Connection Technologies can schedule bulk ports outside business hours to minimise disruption to your team.

Should I use a PAC code or a STAC code?

When leaving a UK mobile network, you have two options: a PAC code (to keep your number) or a STAC code (to cancel without keeping your number). Choosing the right one depends on whether you want to retain your existing mobile number.

What is a STAC code?

A STAC code (Service Termination Authorisation Code) is used when you want to leave your current network and cancel your number entirely. You would use a STAC code if you do not need to keep your old number — for example, if you are getting a completely new number with a new provider, or if you are cancelling a mobile line altogether.

To get a STAC code, text STAC to 75075 from the mobile you want to cancel. Your network must respond within one minute. Once you receive and confirm the STAC code, your contract ends within one working day.

PAC code vs STAC code: comparison

Our recommendation: In almost every situation, use a PAC code. Keeping your existing number costs nothing extra, avoids the hassle of updating contacts, and ensures clients and colleagues can still reach you. Only use a STAC code if you are deliberately retiring a number. For businesses closing old staff lines, speak to our team about managing cancellations and new line activations together.

How do PAC codes work for business mobile contracts?

PAC codes work exactly the same way for business mobile contracts as for consumer contracts — your right to port is protected by Ofcom regardless of contract type. However, there are several important differences businesses should be aware of when porting multiple lines:

Key considerations for business PAC transfers

• Bulk porting: If you are switching 10, 50, or 500+ lines, each number requires its own individual PAC code. Managing these manually is time-consuming and error-prone — one expired code can delay the entire fleet.
• Downtime scheduling: Unlike personal users, businesses need to coordinate port times to minimise disruption. Ports can be staggered or batched outside core hours.
• Account authorisation: On business accounts, the account holder or authorised signatory usually needs to request PAC codes. Individual employees on a company fleet typically cannot request their own.
• Early termination charges: Business contracts often have different notice periods and early exit terms — check your current agreement carefully before porting.
• Managed porting: A specialist B2B telecoms provider like Connection Technologies handles the entire process for you, ensuring every PAC code is requested, tracked, and submitted within validity, with ports scheduled for zero business disruption.

Cost comparison: business mobile plans after porting (April 2026)

If you are using a PAC code to switch your business mobiles, here is what you can expect to pay per line on the major UK networks in April 2026:

Prices shown are approximate ex-VAT rates for business SIM-only plans as of April 2026. Actual pricing depends on number of lines, data pooling, and contract terms. Get an exact quote from our team.

Best for small businesses (1–10 lines): Connection Technologies — we offer multi-network SIMs from £6/month per line with free PAC porting and a dedicated UK account manager.

Best for large fleets (50+ lines): Connection Technologies — we negotiate directly with Vodafone, EE, O2, and Three to get you the best bulk rates, then manage all PAC codes and number porting on your behalf at no extra cost.

Will I pay early termination fees when using a PAC code?

Using a PAC code does not exempt you from early termination charges. If you are still within the minimum term of your contract, your current provider may charge you for the remaining months. Here is what to expect:

• Inside contract (minimum term): You will usually pay the remaining monthly charges for the rest of your minimum term. Some providers discount this by removing the “usage” element and only charging for the handset subsidy.
• Outside contract (rolling/out of contract): No early termination fee. You can port for free with 30 days’ notice — but since the port completes within one working day, you may be charged for one additional month at most.
• Pay-as-you-go: No termination charges whatsoever. Simply request your PAC code and port immediately.

Early termination charges by network (April 2026)

Exact charges vary by plan and provider. Always check your contract terms or ask your provider for a final bill estimate before porting.

Our recommendation: If you have more than three months remaining on your contract, request the exact early termination figure in writing before porting. In many cases, the savings from switching to a cheaper business plan will offset the exit fee within a few months. Ask our team for a cost comparison — we will calculate the break-even point for you.

What should I do if my PAC code is not working?

Most PAC transfers complete without issues, but occasionally problems occur. Here are the most common PAC code issues and how to resolve them:

Common PAC code problems and fixes

For businesses: PAC code issues on a single personal line are a minor inconvenience — on a business fleet, one failed port can disrupt an entire team. That is why we recommend having your ports managed by a specialist. Contact Connection Technologies and we will handle the entire process, including troubleshooting any issues directly with the networks.

What are the pros and cons of using a PAC code?

Our verdict: The pros overwhelmingly outweigh the cons. Keeping your mobile number is free, fast, and legally protected. The only significant drawback is potential early termination charges — but even these are usually offset by savings on a better deal. For businesses, the main risk is mismanaging bulk ports, which is easily solved by using a managed provider like Connection Technologies.

PAC Code FAQs

Can I get a PAC code if I still owe money on my phone?

Yes. Your provider must issue a PAC code regardless of any outstanding balance. However, you will still need to pay off any remaining device payments — these will typically appear on your final bill or continue as a separate payment plan, depending on your provider’s terms.

Does requesting a PAC code cancel my contract?

No. Simply requesting a PAC code does not trigger any cancellation. Your contract only ends when the PAC is actually used and the port completes. You can request a PAC code purely to explore your options without commitment.

Can I use a PAC code from a pay-as-you-go phone?

Yes. PAC codes work for all UK mobile accounts — pay monthly, SIM only, and pay-as-you-go. There are no termination fees for PAYG accounts.

Can I port my number on a weekend or bank holiday?

You can request a PAC code any time, including weekends and bank holidays. However, the actual number port only processes on working days (Monday to Friday). If you submit your PAC to your new provider on a Friday evening, the port will typically complete by end of day Monday.

What happens to my old SIM after I port?

Once the port completes, your old SIM card is deactivated and will no longer work. Your new SIM (from your new provider) will now carry your existing number. You can dispose of the old SIM.

Can I port my number to a different type of account (e.g. personal to business)?

Yes. You can port your personal number to a business account and vice versa. The PAC code process is identical — text PAC to 65075, then give the code to your new provider when setting up the new account. This is common when employees join a company fleet but want to keep their personal number.

Is there a limit to how many PAC codes I can request?

No. You can request as many PAC codes as you like, as many times as you need. Each new request generates a fresh code with a new 30-day validity period. Only the most recently issued PAC code is valid.

What if I change my mind after giving my PAC code to a new provider?

If the port has not yet been processed, contact your new provider immediately to cancel the porting request. If the port has already completed, you would need to port your number back to your original provider by requesting a new PAC code from the new provider. This is sometimes called a “re-port” and follows the standard one-working-day timeline.

Can my employer request a PAC code for my work phone?

If the account is in the company’s name, then yes — the authorised account holder (typically the business owner, IT manager, or telecoms administrator) can request PAC codes for all lines on the account. Individual employees on a company fleet typically cannot request PAC codes independently as they are not the account holder.

This is our comprehensive guide to PAC codes — covering every UK network, business porting, troubleshooting, pricing, and frequently asked questions. For a quick-reference version with just the essential steps, visit our PAC code help article. Last reviewed and updated April 2026 by the Connection Technologies editorial team.

PAC Code Statistics and Switching Data — UK 2026

According to Ofcom’s Switching Report 2025, 4.8 million UK mobile numbers were ported using PAC codes in the previous 12 months — a 12% increase on 2024. The average PAC code transfer now completes in 1.2 working days, down from 2.1 days in 2022, thanks to improved inter-network processes.

Key PAC code and mobile switching statistics for 2026:

• 92% of PAC code requests are now made via text (texting PAC to 65075) rather than by phone call (Ofcom 2025)
• Average downtime during a PAC code number transfer: under 2 hours
• 97.3% of PAC code transfers complete successfully on the first attempt
• Business PAC code transfers account for 23% of all number ports in 2026
• The most common reason for PAC code use: better pricing (cited by 67% of switchers)
• Second most common reason: poor coverage (cited by 41%)

Understanding the full PAC code meaning and process is essential for any business reviewing mobile contracts in 2026. The PAC code meaning is simple: it is your Porting Authorisation Code — a 9-character key that unlocks your right to keep your number when switching networks. Every UK mobile user has the right to a PAC code free of charge under Ofcom regulations.

For business mobile fleets, Connection Technologies manages bulk PAC code migrations across all networks — handling PAC code requests, number porting schedules, and device setup. Get a free migration quote →

PAC Code Meaning Explained — Quick Reference 2026

The PAC code meaning is straightforward: PAC stands for Porting Authorisation Code. Your PAC code meaning in practical terms is a 9-character code that authorises the transfer of your mobile number from one network to another.

Understanding your PAC code meaning matters because it is the legal mechanism that protects your right to keep your phone number when switching providers. Without a PAC code, your old number would be lost when you cancel your existing contract.

See also our guide on STAC Code Explained: Switch Network Without Keeping Your Number (UK 2026) for more details.

The full PAC code meaning in a business context: it is your key to switching networks without disrupting clients, contacts or business operations. Every UK mobile number has a PAC code meaning your number is portable by law — Ofcom guarantees this right for all consumers and businesses in 2026.

For business fleet migrations, Connection Technologies manages PAC code requests in bulk. Get your PAC codes managed →

Written by

Scott Jerrard

Sales Manager

Scott is an experienced Sales Manager at Connection Technologies, leading high-performing teams to deliver consistent year-on-year growth.

Business MobilesTelecoms SolutionsAccount Management

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