How do I get my PAC code from O2?

The quickest way to get your PAC code from O2 is to text PAC to 65075 from your O2 mobile - you will receive your code within 1 minute. You can also call 202 from your O2 mobile, use the My O2 app, or visit an O2 store. By law, O2 must provide your PAC code immediately upon request.

Switching Guide Updated January 2026

PAC Code: Keep Your Number When Switching

Q: How long is a PAC code valid?

A PAC code is valid for 30 days from the date it is issued. If your PAC code expires before you use it, you can simply request a new one by texting PAC to 65075 again. There is no limit to how many times you can request a PAC code, and getting a code does not commit you to switching.

Everything you need to know about PAC codes. Learn how to get your PAC code, keep your phone number when switching networks, and complete the transfer process quickly and easily.

Disclaimer: This is an independent help resource and is not affiliated with any mobile network operator. For official support, contact your network provider directly.

We've compiled this guide from official sources and real user experiences to help you switch networks smoothly.

What Is a PAC Code?

A PAC (Porting Authorisation Code) is a unique 9-character code that allows you to transfer your existing mobile phone number to a new network provider. The PAC code proves you have authorisation to move your number.

Key Facts About PAC Codes

Length: 9 characters (letters and numbers)
Validity: 30 days from the date of issue
Cost: Free to obtain from any UK network
Purpose: Keeps your existing phone number when switching
Regulation: Governed by Ofcom rules for number portability

Important: Your PAC code is personal to your number. Never share it unless you are giving it to your new network provider to complete the switch.

Get Your PAC Code in 60 Seconds

The quickest and easiest way to get your PAC code is by text message. This method works for all UK mobile networks.

Text PAC to 65075

Send a text message with just the word:

PAC

to 65075 from the phone you want to switch

You will receive your PAC code by text within 1 minute

Alternative Methods

Online Account: Log in to your network's website or app
Phone: Call your current network's customer service
In Store: Visit a store of your current network

By Law: Your network must provide your PAC code within 1 minute when you text 65075. They cannot refuse or delay your request.

STAC Codes: Switch Without Keeping Your Number

A STAC (Service Termination Authorisation Code) is similar to a PAC code but is used when you want to cancel your contract without keeping your number.

Text STAC to 75075

Send a text message with just the word:

STAC

to 75075 to get a code to cancel without keeping your number

PAC vs STAC: Which Do You Need?

Code	Purpose	Keep Number?	Text To
PAC	Switch network AND keep your number	Yes	65075
STAC	Cancel contract, get a new number	No	75075

Warning: Using a STAC code means you will lose your phone number permanently. Only use STAC if you definitely do not want to keep your number.

How Long Does the Transfer Take?

Once you have your PAC code, here is what happens when you switch:

Get Your PAC Code: Text PAC to 65075 and receive your code within 1 minute.
Choose Your New Network: Select your new provider and plan. Order a new SIM or eSIM.
Give PAC to New Provider: Provide your PAC code when signing up or afterwards via their website/app.
Wait for Transfer: Your number will transfer to your new network within 1 working day.
Receive Confirmation: You will get a text confirming when the switch is complete.
Insert New SIM: Put your new SIM in your phone. Your old SIM will stop working.

Typical Timeline

Step	Time Required
Get PAC code	Within 1 minute
Receive new SIM	1-3 days (or instant for eSIM)
Number transfer after giving PAC	1 working day
Total	1-4 days typically

Tip: You can choose a specific date for the switch if you do not want it to happen immediately. Ask your new provider about scheduling the port.

Network-Specific PAC Instructions

Here is how to get your PAC code from each major UK network:

Switching from O2

Text: Send PAC to 65075
Call: 202 from your O2 mobile (free) or 0344 809 0202
Online: My O2 app or o2.co.uk account

If you have an O2 Refresh contract, you may need to pay off your Device Plan balance.

Switching from EE

Text: Send PAC to 65075
Call: 150 from your EE mobile or 07953 966 250
Online: My EE app or ee.co.uk account

Switching from Vodafone

Text: Send PAC to 65075
Call: 191 from your Vodafone mobile or 03333 040 191
Online: My Vodafone app or vodafone.co.uk account

Switching from Three

Text: Send PAC to 65075
Call: 333 from your Three mobile or 0333 338 1001
Online: My3 app or three.co.uk account

Switching from Other Networks

For MVNOs (virtual networks) like giffgaff, Tesco Mobile, Sky Mobile, VOXI, Lebara, etc.:

Text: Send PAC to 65075 (works for all UK networks)
Online: Check your provider's website or app
Call: Contact your provider's customer service

Universal Method: Texting PAC to 65075 works for ALL UK mobile networks. It is the quickest and most reliable method.

Common PAC Code Questions

Do I need to cancel my old contract separately?

No, when you use your PAC code to switch, your old contract is automatically cancelled on the day of the transfer. You do not need to contact your old network to cancel. However, you may still owe money for any remaining contract term or device payments.

What happens if my PAC code expires?

PAC codes are valid for 30 days. If yours expires before you use it, simply request a new one by texting PAC to 65075 again. There is no limit to how many times you can request a PAC code.

Will I lose service during the switch?

There may be a brief period (usually a few minutes to a few hours) on the day of the switch where your service is interrupted. This happens as your number transfers from the old network to the new one. Most transfers complete within a few hours.

Can I change my mind after getting a PAC code?

Yes, getting a PAC code does not commit you to switching. You can simply not use it and it will expire after 30 days. Your current contract continues as normal until you actually complete a switch.

Do I need to unlock my phone to switch networks?

Since December 2021, all phones sold by UK networks must be unlocked. If you have an older locked phone, you may need to request an unlock from your current network before your new SIM will work. This is separate from the PAC code process.

What about early termination fees?

If you are still within your minimum contract term, you may need to pay early termination fees. These are the remaining monthly charges until your contract would have ended. Some networks include device payments in this; others (like O2 Refresh) separate them. Check with your current network.

Can I port a business number?

Yes, business numbers can be ported using the same PAC code process. However, business accounts may have different procedures. Contact your business account manager or the network's business support team for specific guidance.

How do I track my number transfer?

Your new network should provide updates on your port request. You will typically receive a text message confirming when the switch is complete. You can also contact your new network's customer service to check the status.

More Switching Resources

If you need further assistance with PAC codes and switching networks:

Ofcom: The UK regulator for information on your rights
Your Current Network: Contact their customer service for help getting your PAC
Your New Network: Contact them to submit your PAC and schedule the switch
O2 Help: Browse O2-specific help topics
O2 Cancellation: Guide to leaving O2

Sources & References

Written by the AtlasMobile Team

Independent UK Mobile & Broadband Experts

Our editorial team combines over 25 years of experience in UK telecommunications. We research, test, and verify all information to provide accurate, unbiased guidance for consumers.

Last reviewed: January 2026