Mobile PACs (Porting Authorisation Codes)

Many people want to avoid the hassle of changing mobile numbers when they switch mobile provider.

Mobile phone customers have the right to take their mobile number with them. This is known as  known as mobile number portability.

Porting process

The process is simple. To port your number, you ask your current mobile provider for a PAC (Porting Authorisation Code) before your service is terminated.

PACs have to be issued immediately over the phone or within a maximum of two hours by text message.

Once you have your PAC, it’s valid for 30 days and you must give it to your new mobile provider within this time.

If it runs out, you will need to request a new PAC from your existing mobile provider.

Once your new provider has your PAC and notifies your existing provider of the port request, your number will normally be transferred the next working day.

Some mobile phone providers may charge you a fee to move your number. You must also remember that, if you are still under contract to your old company, you may still be liable for charges under that contract.

Can I be refused a PAC?

The only reasons why a provider can refuse to give a PAC are:

• the number does not belong to the customer of the losing mobile provider
• the account for that number has been terminated
• the account holder has died
• a PAC has already been issued and is still valid
• the customer has not adequately proved that he or she is the legitimate account holder.

Your provider cannot refuse to issue a PAC if you have any outstanding bills or charges to pay.

These charges should be included in your final bill after the port has taken place. You should then settle them as agreed in your contract.

Use this letter template if you want to request a PAC code

Use this letter template if you have not received your PAC code

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