Key takeaways
Since July 2019, you can switch your mobile network and keep your number by texting 'PAC' to 65075. You receive a PAC code by text within 60 seconds, then give it to your new network who complete the switch within one working day.
If you want to leave your network without keeping your number, text 'STAC' to 75075. You receive a Service Termination Authorisation Code to give your new provider.
Under Ofcom's switching rules, networks cannot charge you for a PAC or STAC code. Your current network must provide it within 60 seconds of your text.
Your current contract cancellation terms still apply -- if you are mid-contract, an exit fee may be due. Requesting a PAC or STAC does not cancel your contract automatically.
The number switch typically completes by 11:59pm on the working day after your new network submits the PAC. You may be without signal for a short period during the cutover.
Reviewed: June 2026Key facts
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PAC code: how text-to-switch works
A PAC (Porting Authorisation Code) is a unique code that lets you transfer your mobile number to a new network. Since 1 July 2019, Ofcom has required networks to provide your PAC via text within 60 seconds of you requesting it. You text 'PAC' to 65075 from the phone you want to switch. The response comes within 60 seconds and includes your PAC code along with information about any exit fees you may owe.
You then give the PAC code to your new network when you sign up. They submit it to the central number porting system. Your number moves to the new network by 11:59pm on the next working day after the PAC is submitted. The whole process -- from texting PAC to having your number on the new network -- typically takes two to three days.
The PAC code process is the fastest and simplest way to switch mobile network in the UK. It takes less than five minutes to initiate and your number is transferred within one working day of your new network submitting the code.
STAC code: leaving without keeping your number
If you want to leave your current network but do not need to keep your existing mobile number -- for example if you are switching to a SIM-only plan and happy to start with a new number -- you can request a STAC (Service Termination Authorisation Code) instead. Text 'STAC' to 75075. You receive the code within 60 seconds. Give it to your new provider to confirm you are leaving your current network.
What happens to your current contract
Requesting a PAC or STAC code does not automatically cancel your contract. If you are within your minimum contract term, your current network may charge an early exit fee. The text response when you request your PAC will include information about any applicable exit fees.
If you are outside your minimum term (on a rolling monthly plan), your contract typically ends 30 days after you give your PAC to the new network, or earlier if your contract allows. Check your specific contract terms for the notice period and whether any charges apply.
Mid-contract switching and exit fees
If your provider has announced a mid-contract price rise above the rate specified in your contract (typically CPI plus a fixed percentage), Ofcom rules since January 2024 require that you can leave without an exit fee. Check your contract terms and any price rise notification you received. If the rise exceeds the stated limit, text your network for a PAC and leave fee-free.
| Network | PAC request method | Typical exit fee structure |
|---|---|---|
| EE | Text PAC to 65075 | Remaining months x monthly fee |
| O2 | Text PAC to 65075 | Remaining months x monthly fee |
| Three | Text PAC to 65075 | Remaining months x monthly fee |
| Vodafone | Text PAC to 65075 | Remaining months x monthly fee |
| Sky Mobile | Text PAC to 65075 | Varies -- check contract |
| giffgaff | Text PAC to 65075 | No contracts -- no exit fee |
| SMARTY | Text PAC to 65075 | No contracts -- no exit fee |
| Tesco Mobile | Text PAC to 65075 | Remaining months x monthly fee |
What to do on and after switch day
Keep your old SIM in your phone until the switch completes. There will typically be a brief period -- often overnight -- when the number is in transit and you may have no signal. Once the switch completes, insert your new SIM. Your number will be active on the new network.
Check that calls, texts and mobile data are all working on the new network. If your number has not transferred within two working days of your new network submitting the PAC, contact your new provider who can investigate via the number porting system.
Related guides
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Kael Tripton Ltd is not regulated by the FCA and does not provide financial advice. Telecoms information is sourced from Ofcom, the UK communications regulator. Always verify current information at ofcom.org.uk.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get a PAC code to switch mobile network?
Text 'PAC' to 65075 from the phone you want to switch. You will receive your PAC code by text within 60 seconds, along with information about any exit fees. The code is free. Give the PAC to your new network when signing up -- they submit it to transfer your number, which completes by 11:59pm the next working day.
How long does it take to switch mobile network?
The PAC code is issued within 60 seconds of your text. Your new network submits the PAC when you sign up with them. Your number transfers to the new network by 11:59pm on the next working day after submission. The total time from requesting your PAC to being active on the new network is typically two to three days.
Can I switch mobile network if I am mid-contract?
Yes, but an early exit fee may apply. The text response when you request your PAC will state any fees due. If your provider has raised prices above the rate specified in your contract, you may be able to leave without a fee under Ofcom's 2024 mid-contract price rise rules.
What is the difference between a PAC and a STAC?
A PAC (Porting Authorisation Code) transfers your existing number to a new network. A STAC (Service Termination Authorisation Code) ends your current contract without transferring your number. Use a PAC if you want to keep your number; use a STAC if you are happy to start with a new number on your new network.
Does requesting a PAC cancel my contract?
No. Requesting a PAC or STAC does not automatically cancel your contract. Your contract terms -- including any notice period and exit fees -- still apply. Give the PAC to your new network within 30 days (PAC codes expire after 30 days) and the switch will complete in accordance with your contract terms.
What if my number does not transfer on switch day?
If your number has not transferred within two working days of your new network submitting the PAC, contact your new provider. They can investigate via the central number porting system. If the delay is due to your old network's actions, automatic compensation may apply under Ofcom's rules.
Are PAC codes free?
Yes. Ofcom rules prohibit networks from charging for PAC or STAC codes. Requesting either code by text to 65075 or 75075 is free. Networks also cannot make requesting a PAC unnecessarily difficult -- if they fail to provide it within 60 seconds of your text, this is a breach of Ofcom rules.
Can I switch to an eSIM using a PAC code?
Yes. The PAC code process works for eSIM transfers as well as physical SIM cards. When signing up with your new network on an eSIM-compatible device, provide your PAC as usual. The number porting process is the same -- your number transfers to the new eSIM by 11:59pm the next working day.
