A PAC (Porting Authorisation Code) is a short code that lets you move your mobile number from O2 to another UK network. Every provider is required by Ofcom to issue one free of charge when you ask, and requesting a PAC does not cancel your O2 contract on its own — it only starts the switch once you hand the code to a new provider.
What is a PAC code?
A PAC identifies your phone number and the network it needs to move to. It is not a discount code or a reference number for support — its only job is to authorise the transfer of your number when you join a new provider. You keep using your O2 SIM right up until the new network completes the switch.
How to get a PAC code from O2
Getting an O2 PAC code takes a couple of minutes and does not cost anything.
- Text PAC to 65075 from the O2 phone you want to keep. This is the fastest method — O2 usually replies within about 60 seconds with a nine-character code.
- Log in to My O2 (or the O2 app), open Manage details, scroll to Thinking of leaving O2?, and choose Request your code.
- Call O2 customer services on 202 from your O2 mobile, or 0344 809 0202 from any other phone, if you would rather speak to someone.
You must text or call from the O2 SIM the number is registered to — the request will not work from another phone. If your account has an Apple Watch or multiple numbers linked to it, texting 65075 will not work at all; request your PAC through My O2 or by calling customer services instead.
What happens after you get your PAC code
Your O2 PAC code is valid for 30 days from the date it is issued. Give it to your new provider when you sign up — usually during checkout, though most networks also accept it after you have placed your order. They handle the number transfer from there, and it typically completes within one working day.
Your O2 service keeps working right up until the switch goes through, so there is no need to cancel anything yourself. Once the port completes, O2 closes your old account automatically and sends a final bill roughly two weeks later covering any usage, line rental or remaining device balance.
If your PAC expires before you use it, request a new one the same way — there is no limit on how many times you can ask.
Leaving O2? Here's what to expect
A PAC code only moves your number — it does not tell you what you might owe, how long your notice period is, or how O2's early termination charges work if you are still mid-contract. If you are weighing up whether to leave O2 altogether rather than just switching networks, read our full guide to cancelling your O2 contract for exit fees, final bill details and what to do if you are not porting your number to a new provider.
For step-by-step guides on leaving other UK networks, see our cancel and switch hub.
