You may want to unlock your phone because you want to use it with another SIM card or because you’ve decided to switch networks.
Alternatively, it may be that you’ve accidentally entered the wrong PIN too many times and now need a PUK to unlock your SIM card and start using it again.
Here's what a PUK code is, and outline the easiest ways to get one. We’ll also look at which networks require PUKs to unlock phones, as well as clear up the difference between a PUK and a PAC (porting authorisation code).
What is a PUK for? Is it different from a PAC Code?
A PUK, sometimes known as a network unlocking code (NUC) or personal unlocking code (PUC), is a unique sequence of eight digits that your network must supply if you fulfil certain criteria.
A PUK is required when you want to unlock a phone. You’ll need one if your handset is locked by your current network and you want to use a SIM card from another network.
You’ll also need to get a PUK code if you mistakenly enter the wrong PIN code and you are automatically locked out.
Depending on the network you’re signed up to, you may be allowed up to three or up to ten incorrect tries. Either way, when a phone is locked by the network in these circ*mstances, you’ll need a PUK to unlock it before you can start using your phone again.
A PAC (porting authorisation code) is very different. Like a PUK, it’s a unique sequence of digits and plays a role when you’re switching networks. But a PAC code is only required when you want to transfer your existing mobile phone number to the network you’re joining.
How do I get a PUK?
Remember the plastic container tray that your SIM card came in when it arrived? Well, in the unlikely event that you had the foresight to keep it safe, you’ll be able to find your PUK written on the tray.
If you weren’t that forward-looking, you’d need to get a PUK from your network.
Getting a PUK from your network
According to Ofcom regulations, no networks are allowed to sell locked phones as of December 2021. That means that if you've purchased a handset from your network since then, you won't need to worry about getting a PUK from your network.
Even before then, many networks did away with selling locked phones, but there were a few that still locked their phones. These included:
BT
EE
iD Mobile (for iPhones)
So, if you have a handset from these providers from 2021 or earlier, you might still need to contact them to get your PUK code. Below, we’ve listed the major networks and how to get your PUK from them.
Get a PUK from O2
Not all phone models are locked by O2. However, if your phone is locked, you can get your PUK by logging into yourO2 account.
Get a PUK from Vodafone
To get hold of a PUK from Vodafone, head to its site and fill in thisform.
Get a PUK from Tesco Mobile
You can get a PUK to unlock Tesco Mobile phones by dialling *#06# to get your IMEI number. Once you’ve got that, ring Tesco Mobile on 034 5301 4455, who text you your PUK code along with instructions to unlock your phone.
Get a PUK from EE
To obtain a PUK code from EE, you must fill in this form. Once you’ve done that, they’ll text you a personal unlocking key (PUK).
Need a PAC code too?
As indicated above, unlocking your phone with a PUK is only half the story if you're switching networks. If you want to transfer your number to the new network, you’ll also need a PAC Code.
Not sure how to get one? No fear. We can help you with that. Just head to ourguide to transferring your numberfor all the help you need.
