Wireless Number Portability

You can take it with you. Keep your previous phone number when you switch to MetroPCS.

MetroPCS offers Wireless Number Portability (WNP) in all MetroPCS markets. Our goal is to make transitioning your number as smoothly as possible. Below are some questions and answers that that may help you better understand WNP.

What is Wireless Number Portability?

Wireless Number Portability (WNP) allows you to take your previous mobile number with you when you switch to MetroPCS.

MetroPCS offers WNP in all markets.

How much does it cost?

MetroPCS does not charge a fee for processing the transfer of your number to MetroPCS. However, MetroPCS does recover its costs for such transfers through a small monthly charge to all customers (See WNP Charge).

Why did my WNP Charge increase to $0.99 on April 1, 2008?

The WNP Charge is a charge to recover or help defray costs incurred by MetroPCS in complying with Wireless Number Portability and various other regulatory mandates. Our costs of complying with such mandates have increased and MetroPCS is adjusting the WNP Charge accordingly.

How do I qualify?

If the area code of your current cell number is in the MetroPCS coverage area, you will be able to transfer your number to MetroPCS.

Can I bring any cell phone to MetroPCS for WNP?

Only MetroPCS phones will work on the MetroPCS network. You will need to purchase a phone in a MetroPCS store or bring a MetroPCS phone you purchased at one of our authorized dealers to a MetroPCS store.

How long does it take to transfer my number?

Our goal is to transfer your mobile number to MetroPCS within a few hours. However, if there are any delays from your current wireless carrier, the transfer process could take longer. In addition, landline transfers typically take longer to process from your existing landline carrier.

MetroPCS is committed to making the transfer of your number as seamless and timely as possible.

Should I deactivate my old service before bringing my old number to transfer?

No. The porting process requires the wireless phone number to be an active phone number. Once the number has been approved for transfer, your old number and account will be deactivated.

Can I dial emergency numbers, such as 911, during the WNP process?

MetroPCS does everything possible to make sure 911 calls are minimally impacted by WNP. However, the public safety dispatch may not receive your accurate telephone number from your phone and therefore may not be able to ascertain your location or return your call in the event that your call is disconnected. Because of this, when you make a 911 call during the WNP process, immediately inform the emergency operator of your exact location. You will be able to make 911 calls on your old phone prior to the number being transferred.

How do I transfer my number to MetroPCS?

Porting your number to MetroPCS is easy! Visit your local MetroPCS store and bring a valid picture ID and the most recent wireless bill you received from your current service provider. Make sure your name and address are showing on the bill. Your MetroPCS agent will start your new account that day and you will receive a text message on your MetroPCS phone when the port process is complete.

Can I port a number for my friend, family member, or coworker?

MetroPCS requires that each new customer visit a MetroPCS store to provide their own identification and port their own number. This reduces the risk of someone else fraudulently transferring your number for you.