What a Transfer PIN is and why you need one

A Transfer PIN is a four-digit security code that AT&T uses to confirm your identity when you want to move your phone number to a different carrier. Without it, someone else could port your number away without your permission. AT&T requires this PIN before they will release your number to another company.

You will need this PIN if you are switching to Verizon, T-Mobile, a regional carrier, or any other wireless provider. The new carrier will ask you for it during the porting process. AT&T will not transfer your number without it, and the new carrier will not complete the transfer without confirming it with AT&T first.

Key Takeaways

  • You can get your Transfer PIN by calling AT&T customer service at 611 from your AT&T phone or 1-800-331-0500 from any phone.
  • AT&T will ask you to verify your identity using your account number, phone number, or the last four digits of your Social Security number before giving you the PIN.
  • You can also retrieve your PIN through the AT&T mobile app or by visiting an AT&T store in person with a photo ID.
  • The PIN is valid for 30 days from the date AT&T issues it, so request it close to when you plan to switch carriers.
  • Keep your PIN private — do not share it with anyone except the carrier you are switching to.

Getting your PIN by phone

Calling AT&T is the fastest way to get your Transfer PIN. From your AT&T phone, dial 611. From any other phone, call 1-800-331-0500. You will reach customer service, and you should tell them you need your Transfer PIN for porting your number.

AT&T will ask you to verify your identity. Have your account number ready, or be prepared to provide your phone number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Once you have verified your identity, the representative will give you a four-digit PIN over the phone. Write it down when ready — they will not repeat it multiple times.

The entire call usually takes five to ten minutes. The PIN becomes active right away and is good for 30 days. If 30 days pass and you have not switched carriers, you will need to call back and request a new PIN.

Getting your PIN through the AT&T app or online

If you prefer not to call, you can retrieve your PIN using the AT&T mobile app on your phone. Open the app, sign in with your AT&T account credentials, and look for the option labeled "Port Out PIN" or "Transfer PIN" — the exact wording varies slightly depending on your phone type and app version. Tap it, verify your identity, and the app will display your four-digit PIN on screen.

You can also visit AT&T.com and log into your account. Navigate to your account settings or profile section and search for "Transfer PIN" or "Port Out PIN." The website will walk you through identity verification and then show your PIN. Like the phone method, the PIN is valid for 30 days from the moment you receive it.

Getting your PIN in person at an AT&T store

You can walk into any AT&T retail store and request your Transfer PIN at the counter. Bring a photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The store associate will verify your identity against your account and provide you with your four-digit PIN on a printed receipt or written on paper.

Store wait times vary by location and time of day. Calling ahead to confirm the store is not busy can save you time. The PIN you receive in store works exactly the same as one you receive by phone or app and is valid for 30 days.

What to do with your PIN once you have it

Once you have your Transfer PIN, contact the new carrier you are switching to and tell them you want to port your number. They will ask you for the PIN as part of their porting process. Do not share your PIN with anyone except the carrier you are actually switching to — AT&T will never ask you for your PIN, and neither will any legitimate carrier.

The new carrier will use your PIN to confirm with AT&T that you have authorized the transfer. This usually takes one to three business days. During this time, your service may be interrupted for a few hours, or you may have service from both carriers briefly. Once the transfer is complete, your number will be active on the new carrier's network and your AT&T service will end.

If your PIN expires or you forget it

If 30 days pass and you have not switched carriers, your PIN will expire. You will need to request a new one using the same methods — call 611 or 1-800-331-0500, use the AT&T app, visit the website, or go to a store. There is no charge to request a new PIN, and you can request as many as you need.

If you have already given your PIN to a new carrier and they are in the middle of porting your number, do not request a new PIN. Doing so may interrupt the transfer process. Contact the new carrier instead and ask them for the status of your port.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get my Transfer PIN if I have a prepaid AT&T plan?

Yes. Prepaid customers can request a Transfer PIN the same way postpaid customers do — by calling 611 or 1-800-331-0500, using the app, or visiting a store. You will still need to verify your identity with your phone number and account information.

What if I do not remember my account number or the last four digits of my Social Security number?

Call 1-800-331-0500 and tell the representative you need your Transfer PIN but do not have your account details. They can verify your identity using other information, such as your billing address, the phone number on the account, or answers to security questions you set up when you created your account.

Can someone else get my Transfer PIN for me?

No. AT&T requires the account holder to request the PIN and verify their own identity. If someone else tries to request it, AT&T will ask for proof that they are authorized to act on your behalf, such as power of attorney. This is a security measure to prevent unauthorized number transfers.

Do I need my Transfer PIN if I am switching to another AT&T plan?

No. The Transfer PIN is only for moving your number to a different carrier. If you are staying with AT&T and just changing your plan, you do not need a PIN. Contact AT&T directly to change your plan.

What happens if I lose my PIN before I give it to the new carrier?

You can request a new one at any time before the 30-day window closes. Call 611, use the app, visit the website, or go to a store. There is no penalty for requesting multiple PINs. Just make sure you give the new carrier the most recent PIN you received.