How to Get Your AT&T Transfer PIN

What an AT&T Transfer PIN is and why you need one

An AT&T Transfer PIN is a four-digit security code that AT&T requires before you can move your phone number to another carrier. It is not the same as your account PIN or your voicemail PIN. AT&T uses it specifically to prevent someone else from porting your number away without your permission.

You will need this PIN if you want to switch to a different wireless carrier — Verizon, T-Mobile, a regional carrier, or an MVNO (a smaller company that rents network space from one of the big three). The new carrier will ask you for it during the porting process. Without it, the transfer will not go through.

AT&T generates a new Transfer PIN for each line on your account. If you have multiple phone numbers with AT&T, each one has its own PIN. The PIN is valid for 30 days from the date AT&T creates it, so you do not need to request it months in advance.

Key Takeaways

You can get your AT&T Transfer PIN online through your AT&T account, by calling AT&T customer service at 611 from your AT&T phone or 1-800-331-0500, or by visiting an AT&T store in person.
AT&T will ask you to verify your identity using the last four digits of your Social Security number, your account PIN, or answers to security questions before they give you the PIN.
The Transfer PIN is valid for 30 days, so request it only when you are ready to switch carriers — not weeks beforehand.
You must be the account holder or have authorization to manage the line; AT&T will not give the PIN to someone else without written permission.
If you forget the PIN or it expires, you can request a new one using the same methods at any time.

Getting your Transfer PIN online through your AT&T account

The fastest way to get your Transfer PIN is through the AT&T website or mobile app. Log into your account at att.com or open the AT&T mobile app on your phone. Go to the "Account" or "My Account" section, then look for an option labeled "Manage my mobile number" or "Port my number" — the exact wording changes, but it will be in the account settings area.

AT&T will ask you to confirm your identity. This usually means entering the last four digits of your Social Security number or your account PIN. Once you verify, AT&T will display your Transfer PIN on the screen. Write it down or take a screenshot — you will need to give this PIN to your new carrier.

If you cannot find the option in your account, try searching the AT&T website for "Transfer PIN" or "port my number." AT&T's online help usually directs you to the right page. The online method works 24 hours a day and takes about five minutes.

Calling AT&T customer service for your Transfer PIN

You can also get your Transfer PIN by phone. Call 611 from your AT&T mobile phone, or call 1-800-331-0500 from any phone. Tell the representative you need your Transfer PIN because you are switching to another carrier.

The representative will verify your identity by asking for the last four digits of your Social Security number, your account PIN, or answers to security questions you set up on your account. Once verified, they will give you the PIN over the phone. Ask them to repeat it so you write it down correctly.

Wait times vary depending on the time of day and how busy AT&T's lines are. Calling during off-peak hours — early morning or late evening — usually means a shorter wait. The call itself takes about 10 to 15 minutes once you reach a representative.

Getting your Transfer PIN in an AT&T store

You can walk into any AT&T retail store and ask for your Transfer PIN in person. Bring a government-issued photo ID so the store employee can verify you are the account holder. The employee will look up your account, confirm your identity, and give you the PIN on the spot.

This method works well if you prefer face-to-face help or if you are having trouble with the online or phone methods. Store hours vary by location, so check the AT&T website to find a store near you and confirm it is open before you go.

What to do if you do not have your account PIN or Social Security number

If you do not remember your account PIN, AT&T can still verify your identity using security questions or other information on file. When you call or go online, tell the representative you need to use a different verification method. They will ask you questions like the last four digits of your billing phone number, your billing address, or details about your account history.

If you do not have your Social Security number available, you can use your account PIN instead, or answer the security questions. AT&T has multiple ways to verify who you are; you do not need all of them, just one.

What happens after you get your Transfer PIN

Once you have your Transfer PIN, contact your new carrier and tell them you want to port your number from AT&T. They will ask for your Transfer PIN, your current phone number, and your account number (which appears on your AT&T bill). The new carrier will submit the port request to AT&T using this information.

AT&T will receive the request and process it. The transfer usually takes one to three business days, though it can sometimes take longer if there are billing issues or if your account is not in good standing. During this time, your phone may lose service briefly as the number switches over. Once the port is complete, your number will work on your new carrier's network.

Keep your AT&T service active until the port is finished. If you cancel your account before the transfer completes, it can delay or block the port. After the port is done, you can cancel your AT&T service if you want to.

If your Transfer PIN expires or you forget it

AT&T Transfer PINs are valid for 30 days. If you do not use it within that time, it expires and you will need to request a new one. You can request a new PIN using any of the three methods above — online, by phone, or in person — at any time. There is no limit to how many times you can request a new PIN.

If you already gave your PIN to your new carrier and then forgot what it was, you do not need to do anything. The new carrier has the PIN and will use it to complete the port. You only need to request a new PIN if the original one expired before the port was finished, or if you changed your mind and want to delay the switch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone else get my Transfer PIN if they call AT&T?

No. AT&T requires identity verification before giving out a Transfer PIN. The person calling must know your Social Security number, account PIN, or be able to answer security questions tied to your account. If someone calls pretending to be you but cannot verify this information, AT&T will not give them the PIN.

What if I lost my phone and cannot call 611?

Use the AT&T website or app from a computer or tablet, or call 1-800-331-0500 from any phone. You can also visit an AT&T store in person. You do not need your AT&T phone to get your Transfer PIN.

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

No. The Transfer PIN is only for moving your number away from AT&T. If you are bringing a number to AT&T, your current carrier will give you a PIN or authorization code instead, and you will give that to AT&T.

Can I get a Transfer PIN for someone else's line on my family plan?

Only if you are the primary account holder. If you are an authorized user on the account but not the primary holder, AT&T will not give you the PIN for another line. The primary account holder must request it themselves or give you written permission to act on their behalf.

What if AT&T says my account is not in good standing?

AT&T may delay or block a port if your account has unpaid bills or other issues. Contact AT&T to resolve any outstanding balance or dispute before requesting your Transfer PIN. Once your account is in good standing, you can request the PIN and proceed with the port.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.