To transfer your phone number to a new phone on Verizon, the process depends on whether you are an existing Verizon customer or bringing a number from another carrier. Existing customers can activate their new phone through My Verizon, while customers switching from another carrier must follow the port-in process using their current account number and a Number Transfer PIN.
How to transfer your phone number to a new phone on Verizon
If you are an existing Verizon customer activating a new phone with your current Verizon number, you will follow the My Verizon activation path. If you are bringing a number from another carrier to a new Verizon device, you will follow the port-in path, which requires your previous carrier's account number and a Number Transfer PIN.
If you're an existing Verizon customer
- Sign in to My Verizon or open the My Verizon app.
- Navigate to Account, then My devices, and select Activate or switch device or Activate on an existing line.
- Enter the new device's 15-digit IMEI. The device identification number may also be referred to as MEID.
- Power off your old phone before proceeding.
- If activation does not complete automatically, restart your new phone.
Verizon operates on a CDMA network, so not all devices are compatible; check compatibility via Verizon's website or customer support. Your contacts, photos, and other content typically remain on your old phone and must be backed up and transferred separately to your new device. If your new phone requires a different SIM card size or uses an eSIM, you may need a new Verizon SIM.
If you're bringing a number from another carrier
- You may need to unlock your old phone and deactivate any associated services with your old carrier before transferring the number.
- Confirm with your current carrier that your phone is unlocked and eligible to move.
- Obtain your current carrier's account number and a Number Transfer PIN by dialing #PORT from the phone number you wish to transfer.
- Provide the Number Transfer PIN to Verizon promptly, as it typically expires after 7 days.
- Do not close your account with your previous carrier until the number transfer to Verizon is fully complete.
Keep your old phone active until the transfer is complete to avoid any interruption in service. Most mobile number transfers to Verizon take 4 to 24 business hours, while landline transfers can take 2 to 10 business days. Verizon does not charge a fee to bring your number to their service. This process is part of how Verizon handles porting and releasing phone numbers, ensuring a smooth transition without losing your existing number.
What to do if the transfer doesn't complete
If your number transfer does not complete, first restart your new phone and ensure your old phone is powered off. If the issue persists, contact Verizon support via phone, live chat, or social media. Have your account details and the new phone's 15-digit IMEI ready to expedite troubleshooting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to transfer a phone number to a new phone on Verizon?
For mobile numbers, the transfer typically takes 4 to 24 business hours. Landline number transfers can take 2 to 10 business days.
Will my contacts and data transfer with my phone number?
No.
Do I need to notify anyone else when transferring my phone number?
It is a good idea to inform contacts and important services or accounts about the change to avoid disruption, even though network connections should update automatically.
What happens if my Number Transfer PIN expires?
The Number Transfer PIN obtained from your previous carrier typically expires after 7 days. If it expires, you will need to generate a new PIN by dialing #PORT again before completing the transfer.
