Mobile Phone Number Portability

What is 'Number Portability' ?
In September 2001 a new method of porting numbers between Networks was introduced. This new porting process has improved the time it takes to complete the procedure of transferring your old number between Networks.
Number portability enables you to request a transfer and subsequently allows another Network to request that your mobile telephone number be transferred to them.

How do I 'port' my number ?
Contact your current Network and ask them to issue you with a Porting Authorisation Code (PAC). They have up to two days to comply with your request.

When you receive your PAC you have up to 30 days in which to inform your new Network of your Porting Authorisation Code. Your new Network must then give you & your current Network at least 7 calender days notice of the port date.

Restrictions and Conditions
Your number must be live and connected.

If you are still tied to a contract with your current Network you need to pay off the remaining term.

You can transfer a Pay As You Go mobile phone number as long as it is still connected, however, any credits that you may have cannot be transferred to your new Network.

If you intend to keep the same phone check with your new Network that your existing phone will operate on their network.

Your contract with your existing Network will be considered terminated when a request is received from your new Network to transfer your mobile phone number.

If you think that your existing Network has not dealt with your Mobile Number Porting request satisfactorily, and you wish to make a complaint, you can contact OFTEL on the following number : 020 7634 8888.