Switching carriers? A Port Out PIN is a temporary code needed to securely transfer your phone number. Learn how to find your PIN from Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and more.
What Is a Port Out PIN? How to Get It & Switch Carriers
What Is a Port Out PIN? How to Get It & Switch Carriers
What Is a Port Out PIN? Definition, Usage, and Retrieval Guide
A Port Out PIN is a temporary security code used to validate your identity when transferring your phone number to a new carrier. This crucial piece of information acts as a safeguard required by all U.S. carriers, under FCC security protocols, to prevent unauthorized porting, also known as “SIM swapping,” where a fraudster attempts to steal your phone number. This PIN, sometimes called a Number Transfer PIN (NTP), ensures that only you, the legitimate account holder, can approve the move. This guide provides updated instructions for 2026 on how to find and use your Port Out PIN with major carriers and popular MVNOs.
Summary
To switch carriers and keep your phone number, you must get a special, temporary code from your old provider. You then give this code to your new provider to authorize the transfer. It’s a simple security check to prove you own the number.
TLDR
- Request the PIN: Contact your current (old) carrier to generate a temporary Port Out PIN.
- Give it to Your New Carrier: Provide this PIN, along with your account number, to your new carrier when you sign up.
- Transfer Complete: The new carrier uses the PIN to confirm your request with the old carrier, and your number is moved over.
📑 Table of Contents
What Is a Port Out PIN?
A Port Out PIN is a one-time passcode generated by your current mobile provider that authorizes the release of your phone number to a new provider. It is a critical security measure completely separate from your account password, login PIN, or voicemail password. Often referred to as a “Number Transfer PIN” (NTP) or simply a “Transfer PIN,” this code is a mandatory security feature implemented to stop criminals from hijacking your phone number and gaining access to your personal and financial accounts.
How Does a Port Out PIN Work?
The Port Out PIN functions as a unique digital “key” that you use to unlock your phone number from your current provider’s network, allowing it to be moved to another. The process is standardized across the industry to ensure security and efficiency.
Here is the typical flow of the process:
1. Request
You (the user) request a Port Out PIN from your losing carrier (the provider you are leaving). This is usually done through their app, website, or by texting a short code.
2. Provide
You give this PIN and your account number to the gaining carrier (your new provider) as part of their activation process.
3. Verify
The gaining carrier’s system electronically contacts the losing carrier’s system, presenting the Port Out PIN as proof of authorization. If the PIN is valid, the number is released.
So, what is a port out pin used for? It is used exclusively for one purpose: to securely authenticate your request to move your phone number from one carrier to another.
Port Out PIN vs. Account Password
It’s common for users to confuse the temporary Port Out PIN with the permanent account PIN or password. They are not the same thing. Answering the question “what is a port out pin password” requires clarifying this distinction: it is not your login password.
Permanent Account PIN
This is a static PIN (or passcode) you set yourself. You typically use it to verify your identity when you call customer service or make changes to your account in a retail store.
Port Out PIN (NTP)
This is a temporary, system-generated code valid for a short period. Its only function is to authorize the port-out process. You do not set this code yourself; your carrier generates it for you on demand.
Expiration and Format: How Long Is a Port Out PIN Good For?
When you generate a Port Out PIN, remember that it is temporary and has a limited lifespan to enhance security.
- How long is a port out pin good for?
- The validity period varies by carrier but typically ranges from 1 to 7 days. For example, a Verizon Port Out PIN is usually valid for 7 days, while others may expire in just 24 hours. If your PIN expires before you can use it, you must request a new one.
- How many digits is a port out pin?
- Most Port Out PINs are 6-digit numeric codes, although the length can vary between carriers.
- What does a port out pin look like?
- It is a simple string of numbers (e.g., “628190”) that is typically sent to you via SMS to the primary phone line on your account, confirming that the legitimate user is making the request.
How to Find Your Port Out PIN for Major Carriers
Here’s how to get your Port Out PIN from the “Big Three” U.S. carriers.
Verizon Wireless
- Via App: Open the My Verizon app, navigate to your account settings, and look for “Number Transfer PIN” or “Port Out PIN” options.
- Dialing Code: From your Verizon phone, dial #PORT (#7678) and follow the prompts. Verizon will text you the 6-digit PIN, which is valid for seven days.
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T-Mobile
- Via App: Log in to the T-Mobile app, tap “More,” then “Profile Settings,” and look for “Line Details” where you can generate a Transfer PIN.
- Customer Service: Dial 611 from your T-Mobile phone and request a “Number Transfer PIN” from the automated system or a representative.
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AT&T
- Via App: In the myAT&T app, go to your profile, select “People & Permissions,” choose your wireless line, and find the “Transfer phone number” option.
- Dialing Code: From your AT&T phone, dial *PORT (*7678) and follow the on-screen instructions to have the PIN sent to you via SMS.
Keyword Note: Follow these steps for how do i get my port out pin from at&t.
Port Out PIN Instructions for Prepaid and MVNOs
For smaller prepaid carriers and MVNOs, the process is similar but may require logging into your online account or calling customer service.
Visible
To answer what is a port out pin visible, you must use the app. The PIN is found within the Visible app under Account > Your Info > Port-out PIN. Tap “Get my PIN” to have it displayed.
Metro by T-Mobile (MetroPCS)
The question, what is a port out pin in metro pcs, is answered by contacting them directly. You typically need to call Metro customer service at 888-863-8768 or use the MyMetro app to request your PIN.
Google Voice
Google Voice is unique. To answer what is the port out pin for google voice, you must first “unlock” your number for porting. Log in to Google Voice on a computer, go to Settings, and find the “Unlock” option (this may require a small fee). Your Port Out PIN is the same as your voicemail PIN.
Straight Talk, Boost & Xfinity
- Straight Talk: Text NTP to 611611.
- Boost Mobile: Call customer service (833-502-6678) or check the app.
- Xfinity Mobile: Request via the app under “Devices” or via SMS.
Other Carriers (Consumer Cellular, AirTalk, Mint)
- Consumer Cellular: To find out what is the port out pin for consumer cellular, you must call customer support at (888) 345-5509. They do not allow online PIN generation.
- AirTalk Wireless: The port out pin for airtalk wireless is usually the last four digits of your phone number, but it is best to call customer service at +1 (855) 924-7825 to confirm.
- Mint Mobile: You can request your Port Out PIN by calling customer service at 611 from your Mint phone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is my port out pin not working?
There are three common reasons for failure:
1. It Expired: The PIN is only valid for a short time. If it’s been a few days, you’ll need to generate a new one.
2. Typo: Double-check that you entered the numeric code correctly with your new carrier.
3. Account Lock: Some carriers place a “port freeze” or fraud lock on accounts for security. You may need to call your old carrier to have them temporarily remove this lock before you can port out.
Are port out PIN and transfer PIN the same?
Yes. “Port Out PIN,” “Number Transfer PIN (NTP),” and “Transfer PIN” are synonymous terms. Different carriers use different names for the same security code.
How do I find my port PIN number if I lost my phone?
Since most carriers send the PIN via SMS for security, losing your phone presents a challenge. Your only option is to visit a physical retail store for your current carrier. You will need to present a government-issued photo ID to prove your identity, and a store representative can help you with the port-out process.
What is a port out pin on a cell phone specifically?
The PIN is not stored on your physical cell phone hardware or SIM card. It is a temporary code associated with your account on the carrier’s network. It is generated by their system and sent to your device as a message, but it does not live on the phone itself.
Written by
Conor Byrne
