Personal unlocking keys (PUKs) are required by some networks when you want to unlock your phone.
You may want to unlock your phone because you want to use it with another SIM card, or because you’ve opted to switch network.
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.
In this guide, we’ll explain exactly 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, which is 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, as long as you fulfil certain criteria.
As indicated above, a PUK is required when you want to unlock a phone. You’ll need one in the event that 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 in the event that 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 three incorrect tries, or up to ten. Either way, when a phone is locked by the network in these circumstances, 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 in which housed your SIM card 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’ll need to get a PUK from your network.
Getting a PUK from your network
Not all networks lock their phones. That, of course, means there’s no need to get a PUK to unlock them. What's important to note is that if your network does require a PUK code, they’re obliged to provide you with it, as long as you fulfil certain criteria.
Once again, this varies from network to network. But generally the conditions pertain to your contract status.
Whether you’ll be charged to get a PUK also differs between networks. Although most no longer charge you.
Of the biggest networks, those that don’t lock phones are:
- Three
- Virgin Mobile
- iD Mobile
- Sky Mobile
Networks that sell their phones locked are:
- O2 (select models)
- Vodafone
- Tesco Mobile
- EE
Below we’ve listed the major networks, alongside 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 your O2 account.
Get a PUK from Vodafone
To get hold of a PUK from Vodafone, head to its site and fill in this form.
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
Getting hold of a PUK code from EE is just a case of filling in this form. Once that’s done, they’ll provide you with a personal unlocking key (PUK) by text message.
Need a PAC code too?
As indicated above, if you’re switching network unlocking your phone with a PUK is only half the story. If you want to transfer your number to the network you’re joining, you’re also going to need a PAC Code.
Not sure how to get one? No fear. We can help you with that. Just head to our guide to transferring your number for all the help you need.
To unblock your SIM card right away, log into your Fizz account to reveal your PUK code (My Plans > Manage > Unblock SIM card). Type the code that is revealed into your phone.
If you entered 3 incorrect PIN codes and your phone displays “SIM card blocked” or “Enter PUK code”, your SIM card has been blocked to ensure your security.
To unblock your SIM card, you must enter a PUK (PIN Unlock Key) code.
Where to find your PUK code:- Log into your Fizz account and go to My Plans.
- Click on Manage and then Unblock SIM card.
- Click the slider to reveal your PUK code.
- Type this code into your phone to unblock your SIM.
To simplify this process in the future, write down your PUK code and keep it somewhere safe.
After you unblock your SIM card:After unlocking your SIM card with a PUK code, go to your phone settings to personalize your PIN code. Choose an easy-to-remember PIN — it will prevent you from accidentally blocking your SIM card again. How do I personalize my PIN?
If you enter the incorrect PUK code 10 times, your SIM card will be permanently blocked. You will need to order a new SIM card. Order a new SIM card
If you received your PUK code by email:The email you received contains several codes: PUK1, PIN2 and PUK2.
- PUK1: The code to unlock your PIN if it is blocked.
- PIN2 and PUK2: Codes used only by a few phones to protect access to some SIM card features
- PIN2: The code set by default in your SIM card; if you have changed this default code, use the PUK2 code to reset it
- PUK2: The code to unlock your PIN2 if it is blocked
How do I personalize my PIN?