You can keep your existing phone number when you switch phones by working with your carrier

Your phone number stays with your carrier, not with your phone itself. When you get a new device, you contact your carrier and ask them to activate your number on the new phone. The process takes a few minutes to a few hours depending on whether you're switching between phone types (like iPhone to Android) or just upgrading within the same system.

The steps differ slightly based on your carrier — Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and smaller carriers like US Cellular or regional providers each have their own process. But the basic idea is the same: you provide your account information, confirm the new phone's details, and the carrier moves your number over.

Key Takeaways

  • Contact your carrier directly by phone, online, or in person at a store — they handle the number transfer, not the phone manufacturer.
  • Have your account PIN or password ready, along with the new phone's IMEI or IMSI number (usually found in Settings or on the phone's box).
  • The transfer typically completes within hours, though some carriers may take up to 24 hours for older phone types.
  • If you're switching carriers at the same time, you'll need a porting authorization code from your current carrier before the new one can activate your number.

Transferring your number within the same carrier

If you're staying with Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, or another carrier and just getting a new phone, contact them through the method that's easiest for you. Most carriers let you start the process online through their website or app, by calling customer service, or by visiting a physical store.

When you contact them, have ready: your account PIN or password, the phone number you want to transfer, and information about your new phone. The carrier will ask for your new phone's IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) — a 15-digit code unique to that device. You can find it by going to Settings on the new phone, looking for "About Phone" or "Device Information," and scrolling to IMEI. Or check the box the phone came in; the IMEI is often printed there.

The carrier will then activate your number on the new phone. This usually takes a few hours. During this time, your old phone will lose service on that number. Once the transfer completes, your new phone will show your number and you'll be able to make and receive calls and texts.

Switching carriers and moving your number

If you're moving to a different carrier — say, from AT&T to T-Mobile — you'll need an extra step. Your current carrier must give you a porting authorization code (sometimes called a transfer PIN or mobile number portability code). This is a security measure that prevents someone else from taking your number without permission.

Contact your current carrier and ask for the porting authorization code. They'll usually give it to you immediately, either over the phone or through their website. Write it down or save it somewhere safe. The code is typically valid for 30 days.

Then contact your new carrier and tell them you want to port your number over. Provide them with the porting authorization code, your account information, and your new phone's IMEI. The new carrier will submit the request to your old carrier. The transfer usually completes within 24 hours, though it can sometimes take up to a few business days. During this window, you may lose service temporarily on your old carrier.

What to do if you're switching between phone types

Moving from an iPhone to an Android phone (or vice versa) doesn't change how your number transfers — your carrier handles it the same way. But you should know that your text messages and iMessage history won't automatically move to the new phone, since those are stored on the device itself, not with your carrier.

Before you switch, back up any messages you want to keep. On iPhone, you can use iCloud or take screenshots. On Android, you can use Google Messages or a backup app. Your contacts, photos, and other data can transfer through your Google account (Android) or iCloud account (iPhone), so set those up on your new phone before you start the number transfer.

Preparing your old phone after the transfer

Once your number is active on your new phone, your old phone will no longer have cellular service on that number. If you want to keep using the old phone on Wi-Fi — to access apps, photos, or other data — you can. Just don't expect calls or texts to arrive there.

Before you set the old phone aside, back up anything you haven't transferred yet. Then consider a factory reset if you're selling or giving it away. On iPhone, go to Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings. On Android, go to Settings > System > Reset Options > Erase All Data. This removes your personal information from the device.

Troubleshooting if your number doesn't transfer

If your number doesn't activate on the new phone within the expected timeframe, contact your carrier's customer service. Have your account number, the phone number being transferred, and your new phone's IMEI ready. Common reasons for delays include a mismatch between the IMEI you provided and the one in the carrier's system, or a hold on your account due to unpaid bills.

If you're switching carriers and the transfer stalls, confirm that your porting authorization code was entered correctly and hasn't expired. If it has, ask your old carrier for a new code. Some carriers also require you to have an active account in good standing before they'll port your number out, so check whether you owe any balance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I transfer my number if I still owe money to my carrier?

This depends on your carrier. Some will port your number even if you have an outstanding balance; others won't until you pay it. Contact your carrier to ask about their policy. If they won't port it, paying the balance usually clears the block immediately.

What if I lose my porting authorization code?

Contact your current carrier and ask for a new one. They'll issue it on the spot, and it will be valid for 30 days. Make sure to use it before it expires, or you'll have to request another.

Will I lose my text messages when I transfer my number?

Yes. Text messages are stored on your phone, not with your carrier. Back up any messages you want to keep before you switch. Your contacts and photos can transfer through your Google or iCloud account, but texts require manual backup or screenshots.

How long does it take to transfer my number to a new phone?

Within the same carrier, it usually takes a few hours. When switching carriers, allow up to 24 hours. In rare cases, it can take a few business days. Your carrier will tell you the expected timeframe when you start the transfer.

Do I need to go to a store, or can I do this online?

Most carriers let you start the transfer online or by phone. Visiting a store in person can sometimes speed things up, especially if there's a problem with your account. Check your carrier's website to see which method they recommend.