Switching carriers? Learn what a Port Out PIN is and how to get one. Our guide covers Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and more to help you transfer your phone number securely.
What Is a Port Out PIN? How to Transfer Your Number
What Is a Port Out PIN? How to Transfer Your Number
What Is a Port Out PIN? The Complete Guide to Transferring Your Number
A Port Out PIN is a dedicated security code required to move your existing mobile phone number from one carrier to another. Whether you call it a transfer PIN or a port out pin on a cell phone, this unique code acts as a digital lock that prevents unauthorized users from taking control of your line. Without this specific validation, you cannot complete the process to switch providers while keeping your current digits.
In 2026, carriers have moved away from standard account passwords for transfers, relying instead on these temporary, generated PINs to ensure that only you can authorize a switch. Below, we explain exactly how to generate these codes using modern app-based methods and text services.
Summary
You need a Port Out PIN to switch your mobile service provider without losing your phone number. This code is distinct from your account login password and is designed to protect you from identity theft. In most cases, you generate this temporary code directly through your carrier’s mobile app or by dialing a specific short code from your device.
TLDR
- You must have this PIN to port your number to a new carrier.
- It is strictly a transfer code, not your voicemail or account password.
- It is usually temporary, remaining valid for only 2 to 7 days.
- You typically generate it instantly via your carrier’s app or by dialing a code like *PORT.
📑 Table of Contents
What Is a Port Out PIN and How Does It Work?
A port out PIN is a unique, temporary security code used to validate a request to transfer a phone number from one mobile carrier to another. Often referred to legally as a “Number Transfer PIN” (NTP), this code serves as the handshake between your old provider and your new one, proving that the account holder is the one initiating the request.
Understanding what is a port out pin used for is critical for modern mobile security. It functions as a form of two-factor authentication designed specifically to prevent SIM swapping attacks. In these attacks, bad actors attempt to hijack a victim’s phone number to bypass security checks on banking or email accounts. By requiring a generated PIN that can only be accessed via the authenticated device or account app, carriers ensure unauthorized porting is blocked.
It is important to clarify what is a port out pin password in relation to your other credentials. Your Port Out PIN is not the same as your account login password, your voicemail PIN, or the last four digits of your Social Security number. It is a standalone, often randomly generated number created solely for the transfer event.
Key Characteristics: Length, Validity, and Format
🔢 Visual Format
If you are wondering what does a port out pin look like, it is almost always a simple numeric string. Unlike complex Wi-Fi passwords, it generally does not contain letters or special characters.
📏 Length
regarding how many digits is a port out pin: The industry standard in 2026 is a 6-digit code. However, some smaller prepaid carriers may still utilize a 4-digit PIN.
⏳ Expiration Rules
Because safety is the priority, you must know what is a temporary port out pin timeframe. Addressing how long is a port out pin good for, most major carriers like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile set the validity period between 4 to 7 days. If you do not use the code within this window, it expires, and you must generate a new one.
How to Get Your Port Out PIN for Major Carriers
If you are using one of the “Big Three” networks, generating your code is a streamlined process handled mostly via app or text. Here is exactly where is port out pin located for each service.
Verizon Wireless
To find what is a port out pin for verizon and generate it:
- Dial #PORT (#7678): Call this short code from your smartphone. Verizon will authenticate you and send the link to generate a PIN.
- My Verizon App: Navigate to Account > Edit Profile > Number Transfer PIN.
Note: This is strictly a 6-digit code. Do not use your 4-digit account PIN.
T-Mobile
For what is a port out pin t mobile users need:
- T-Mobile App: Go to Account > Line Settings > Request a Transfer PIN. Follow the biometric prompts.
- Web Browser: Log in to T-Mobile.com, select your line, and look for “Check transfer status” or “Request a PIN”.
If the app is down, dial 611 to ask support what is a port out pin for t mobile manually.
AT&T
To answer what is a port out pin att specifically:
- Dial *PORT (*7678): Use your AT&T wireless device to call this code. Follow the text prompts to receive your NTP.
- myAT&T App: Go to your profile, select “People & Permissions,” and scroll to “Transfer Phone Number”.
Port Out PIN Locations for MVNOs and Prepaid Carriers
While major networks have automated apps, prepaid carriers often have unique methods for retrieving these codes.
- Metro by T-Mobile
- Regarding what is a port out pin in metro pcs: You usually cannot generate this via text. You must use the MyMetro app or call customer support (611). Note that Metro often requires both your account security PIN and a specific transfer PIN.
- Visible Wireless
- For what is a port out pin visible users need to look in the app. Go to the Account tab, select “Privacy and Security,” and click “Port Out.” You will receive the PIN via email.
- Straight Talk & Consumer Cellular
- If you are asking what is the port out pin for straight talk, text the letters NTP to 611611. For those asking what is the port out pin for consumer cellular, check your online account portal or call support to have it released.
- Boost Mobile & Xfinity
- What is the port out pin for boost mobile? It is located in the My Boost App or obtained by calling care. For what is the port out pin for xfinity, navigate to the app under “Devices” and select “Transfer your number.”
- Google Voice
- For what is the port out pin for google voice, the process is distinct. You must first pay a $3 fee (unless originally ported in) to “Unlock” the number in settings. Once unlocked, the Port Out PIN is simply your Voicemail PIN.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is my port out pin not working?
There are several reasons why a PIN might fail. The code may have expired (refer to how long is a port out pin sections above), or there may be a simple typo. Additionally, if your account is suspended due to non-payment, or if you have a “Number Lock” or “Transfer Lock” active in your security settings, the transfer will be rejected even with a valid PIN.
Are the port out PIN and transfer PIN the same?
Yes. “Number Transfer PIN” (NTP), “Transfer PIN,” and “Port Out PIN” are interchangeable terms for the same security token required to switch carriers.
How do I find my port PIN number if my phone is broken?
If you cannot access your phone to dial short codes or use the app, you must log in to the carrier’s official website using a desktop browser. Alternatively, you can visit a retail store with a valid government-issued photo ID to request the PIN manually from a representative.
Written by
Conor Byrne
