How to get a Tesco Mobile PAC code
If you want to leave Tesco Mobile and keep your phone number, you need a Tesco Mobile PAC code (Porting Authorisation Code). Under Ofcom's Text to Switch rules, Tesco Mobile must send it within one minute of your request.
From your Tesco Mobile phone, text PAC to 65075. The text is free. Tesco Mobile replies by SMS with a nine-character code, valid for 30 days. Give that code to your new network when you sign up or order a replacement SIM — they handle the port and your number moves across, usually within one working day.
Requesting a PAC does not cancel your plan on its own. Your Tesco Mobile service continues until your new provider uses the code. If you change your mind, do nothing — the code expires after 30 days and you stay on Tesco Mobile.
Tesco Mobile runs on the O2 network, but you request your PAC from Tesco Mobile directly, not from O2. If you are moving to a different provider, compare SIM only deals before you hand over your code so you know what you are switching to.
You can also request a PAC through Tesco Mobile's online account, webchat, or by calling 4455 from your Tesco Mobile phone (or 0345 301 4455 from any phone). If you have more than one number on the same account — for example a family plan — you may need to contact customer services rather than using the text shortcut.
Use our PAC & STAC code generator if you want the exact text message and short code for Tesco Mobile or any other UK network.
How to cancel Tesco Mobile
Cancel Tesco Mobile by switching to another network or ending your line without keeping the number. For most people leaving for a new provider, the PAC route above is the simplest way to cancel — your contract ends automatically once the port completes.
If you do not want to keep your number, text STAC to 75075 from your Tesco Mobile phone. You receive a Service Termination Authorisation Code. Give that to your new network if you are joining one, or use it to confirm you want the line closed without porting your number.
To cancel without switching to another network — for example if you no longer need a mobile at all — contact Tesco Mobile customer services on 0345 301 4455 (or 4455 from your Tesco Mobile handset). SIM only customers may also be able to cancel via webchat or social media support.
Before you cancel, text INFO to 85075 from your Tesco Mobile phone. This shows whether you are still inside your minimum contract term and whether early termination charges apply. Tesco Mobile should also include any outstanding charges when it replies to your PAC or STAC request.
Tesco Mobile cancellation: pay monthly, SIM only and pay as you go
Tesco Mobile cancellation works slightly differently depending on how you pay.
Pay monthly (including SIM only contracts): Request a PAC or STAC to switch away, or call customer services to cancel without porting. If you are still within your minimum term, early termination charges may apply — Tesco Mobile will tell you the amount when you request your switching code.
Pay as you go: You can stop using the SIM at any time. Any remaining credit is lost when you leave unless you request a refund through webchat. If you want to take your number to another network, you still need a PAC from 65075.
Cooling-off period: If you joined within the last 14 days, you can cancel without early termination fees. Log in to My Account, use webchat, or call 4455 from your Tesco Mobile phone.
Handset contracts: If you bought a phone on contract through Tesco Mobile and cancel early, you may owe the remaining device balance as well as any contract termination charges. Check your account or ask customer services before you commit to leaving.
Early termination charges when leaving Tesco Mobile
Tesco Mobile may charge an early termination fee if you cancel before your minimum contract ends. The amount depends on how many months remain and the type of plan you hold.
Text INFO to 85075 for a quick contract status check. When you request a PAC or STAC, Tesco Mobile should also confirm whether any charges apply in its reply.
Once your switch date is confirmed, your old provider cannot charge you for a notice period after that date under Ofcom rules. Any final bill may still include usage outside your allowance, add-ons, or outstanding device payments from before you left.
If you are near the end of your contract, waiting until the minimum term expires can avoid termination fees entirely. You can then switch using a PAC without paying to leave early.
Switching from Tesco Mobile to another network
Most people who cancel Tesco Mobile are switching to a cheaper or more flexible SIM only plan elsewhere. Because Tesco Mobile is an MVNO on the O2 network, you already have O2 coverage — but other networks and MVNOs may suit you better on price, data, or contract length.
When comparing alternatives, look at:
- Monthly cost for the data and minutes you actually use
- Contract length — 30-day rolling plans offer more freedom than 12- or 24-month deals
- Coverage in the areas where you live and work
- Perks — Clubcard points on Tesco Mobile will not transfer to a new provider
Useful starting points on WeHelpCompare:
- Compare all SIM only deals
- Cheapest SIM only deals
- 30-day SIM only deals
- Three SIM only deals
- Vodafone SIM only deals
- giffgaff SIM only deals
- Smarty SIM only deals
- iD Mobile SIM only deals
- Lebara SIM only deals
Once you have chosen a new provider, order your SIM and give them your Tesco Mobile PAC code. Keep using your Tesco Mobile SIM until the port completes — your old SIM stops working automatically when the switch is done.
For step-by-step guidance on leaving other networks, see our cancel and switch hub.
What happens to Clubcard points and your account
When your Tesco Mobile service ends, you stop earning Clubcard points on your mobile spend. Any points already on your Clubcard account remain — they are not lost when you cancel.
You will lose access to Tesco Mobile-specific benefits such as capped contracts, Family Perks, and any active bundles or add-ons tied to your plan. Download or save anything you need from My Account before your final bill is settled.
Your final bill may arrive after the switch date and can include partial-month charges, out-of-bundle usage, or early termination fees. Settle it promptly to avoid issues if you ever return to Tesco Mobile.
Step-by-step: leave Tesco Mobile and keep your number
- Text INFO to 85075 to check contract status and any early termination charges.
- Compare SIM only deals and choose your new network.
- Order a SIM or sign up with your new provider.
- Text PAC to 65075 from your Tesco Mobile phone.
- Give the nine-character PAC code to your new provider when prompted.
- Keep your Tesco Mobile SIM in your phone until the port completes (usually within one working day).
- Check your final Tesco Mobile bill and pay any outstanding balance.
If you need a formal cancellation letter for your records — for example when closing a business line — use our cancellation letter generator.
Common problems when cancelling Tesco Mobile
PAC code not arriving: Make sure you text from the Tesco Mobile SIM you want to leave. If nothing arrives within a few minutes, try again or call 4455. Check you have signal and that your phone can send SMS.
PAC code expired: Codes last 30 days. Request a new one by texting PAC to 65075 again — it is free.
Port delayed or failed: Contact your new provider first — they initiate the transfer. If the issue is on Tesco Mobile's side, call customer services with your PAC code and account details.
Phone locked to Tesco Mobile: UK providers must sell unlocked phones. If you bought your handset elsewhere or it is an older device, check whether it needs unlocking before you switch.
Still being charged after leaving: Your service should end when the port completes. If charges continue, contact Tesco Mobile with your switch date and PAC confirmation from your new network.
Want to leave but stay on pay as you go: Call 0345 301 4455 to discuss moving your number to a Tesco Mobile PAYG plan instead of cancelling entirely.
