CMLink PAC code: keep your number when changing mobile operators

CMLink is one of many networks in the UK that you might be looking to join or leave, and if you are, then you’ll probably want to take your current number with you.

Fortunately, doing that is simple, and hinges simply on getting a PAC (Porting Authorisation Code) and giving it to your new network.

Below we’ve detailed that process in full – first for if you’re leaving CMLink, and then further down for if you’re joining it.

Leaving CMLink and transferring your number

The process for leaving CMLink is fast and straightforward, and we’ve split it into three simple steps below. So follow these and you’ll be set up on a new network with your old CMLink number intact.

If you’d rather not bring your number with you, then jump to FAQ at the bottom, where we’ve outlined how to change networks and get a new number.

Note also that you shouldn’t cancel your CMLink contract – that will happen automatically once your number transfer is complete, and if you do it before then you could lose your number.

Step 1 - Request a CMLink PAC code

The first step is to request a PAC code from CMLink, and the simplest way to do that is just to text the word ‘PAC’ to 65075 from your CMLink SIM card. You’ll then get a reply with your PAC.

However, there are other methods as well, which we’ve detailed below.

• Text to switch - Text the word ‘PAC’ to 65075
• Online - Head to CMLink’s porting page, select ‘Port-out’ and follow the instructions
• Phone - Call 10086 from your CMLink phone

Note that your PAC is only valid for 30 days, but if it expires before you’ve used it then you can request a new one.

Step 2 - Order a new phone or SIM

Once you’ve got a PAC code from CMLink it’s time to order a new phone or SIM card from another network – though you can also do this before getting a PAC code if you’d prefer.

If you’re not sure what plan to sign up for, take look at the various phone deals and SIM Only deals on our site – some of which are often exclusives.

Step 3 - Give your CMLink PAC code to your new network

Once your new phone or SIM card has arrived and been activated, it’s time to give your PAC code to the network you’ve just joined.

This is a simple process too, one which usually involves just filling out a short form on the new network’s site.

You’ll find links and details of where to go for this for most networks below, and once that form is filled in your number will usually be transferred in either one or two working days – depending on when you make the request.

Joining CMLink and transferring your number

Looking to join CMLink? Doing so while keeping your old number is a simple process which we’ve broken down into three steps below.

Just makes sure you complete these steps rather than cancelling your old contract – it will be cancelled automatically once your number is transferred, and if you cancel it before that you’ll lose your number.

Step 1 - Request a PAC code from your existing network

First up, you should get a PAC code from the network that you’re leaving. The simplest way to do that is to text the word ‘PAC’ to 65075 from the number you want to keep, but there are other options too, detailed in the chart below.

Step 2 - Order a new CMLink SIM

Once you’ve got a PAC code from your old network, you should sign up for a SIM deal on CMLink.

Then wait for the SIM card to arrive, and activate it once it does. When you have your new temporary number you’re ready to move on to step three.

Step 3 - Give your PAC code to CMLink

Finally, you need to give your PAC code to CMLink. To do this, head to CMLink’s porting page, then select the ‘port-in’ option.

CMLink recommends waiting until at least two hours after your new SIM card is active to do this, but once ready follow the instructions on this page to submit your number transfer request.

The network will then get to work on the transfer, and claims that if it takes over one working day to complete, you’ll be compensated accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions