How to Register Mobile in PTA

Mobile registration with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is crucial for using your mobile device within Pakistan. Unregistered devices may be blocked, preventing access to local networks. This guide will walk you through the detailed steps to register your mobile device with PTA, ensuring you stay connected without any interruptions. Let’s dive in!

What is PTA?

PTA (Pakistan Telecommunication Authority) is the regulatory body that oversees and regulates the telecommunication industry in Pakistan. Its responsibilities include managing mobile networks, ensuring compliance, and implementing systems like mobile device registration to curb illegal imports and smuggling.

What is DIRBS?

In 2018, PTA introduced DIRBS (Device Identification, Registration, and Blocking System), a system designed to monitor and regulate mobile devices in Pakistan. DIRBS helps identify legal devices, ensures compliance, and blocks smuggled or unregistered mobile phones from operating on local networks.

Why Register Your Mobile with PTA?

Registering your mobile device with PTA is not just a formality but a requirement to ensure continuous network access in Pakistan. Unregistered devices are at risk of being blocked, disrupting communication and connectivity. Moreover, this registration helps PTA maintain control over the influx of mobile devices, reducing smuggling and ensuring that only legitimate devices are in use.

Step-by-Step Guide to Register Your Mobile with PTA

1. Registering via USSD Code

One of the simplest ways to register your mobile device is by using the USSD code *8484#. Here’s how:

1. *Dial 8484# on your mobile device.
2. Select Your Registration Option: You will see various options on your screen; press 1 for mobile registration.
3. Confirm Nationality: Press 1 if you are a Pakistani national or 2 if you are a foreigner.
4. Enter Your CNIC and IMEI Number: Input your Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) number and your mobile’s IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number.
5. Complete Registration: Follow the prompts to complete the registration. A confirmation message will be sent to you upon successful registration.

2. Registering via DIRBS Portal

If you prefer to register your device online, you can use the DIRBS portal. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Visit the DIRBS Portal: Open your web browser and go to https://dirbs.pta.gov.pk/drs.
2. Sign Up or Log In: If you don’t have an account, click on Sign Up and fill in the required details, including your email, passport number, phone number, and address.
3. Verify Your Email: After signing up, you will receive a confirmation link in your email. Click on it to verify your account.
4. Log In and Apply: Log in to your account and select Apply for COC (Certificate of Compliance).
5. Enter Device Details: Provide your mobile’s IMEI number and other required information.
6. Check for Taxes: After submitting, you will receive a message indicating whether you need to pay any applicable taxes for your device.

3. Registering via PTA Mobile App

PTA also offers a mobile application for Android users to register their devices easily. Here’s how to do it:

1. Download the PTA App: Available on Google Play Store, download and install the PTA Device Registration System app.
2. Follow Registration Steps: Open the app, and follow the step-by-step instructions to complete your device registration.

4. Registering via Cellular Operator Centers

Alternatively, you can visit the facilitation centers of your cellular operator (e.g., Jazz, Telenor, Ufone, Zong) to register your mobile device. Their staff will assist you in completing the registration process.

Checking Your Mobile Registration Status

To check if your mobile is registered with PTA, you can:

• *Dial 8484# and follow the prompts to check registration status.
• Send an SMS: Type your device’s IMEI number and send it to 8484. PTA will reply with the status of your device (Compliant, Non-Compliant, or Blocked).
• Check Online: Visit https://dirbs.pta.gov.pk/ and enter your IMEI number to check the status.

Understanding IMEI Status Messages

When checking your device status, you may receive one of the following responses:

• Compliant (PTA Approved): Your device is approved, and you can use all network services without restrictions.
• Non-Compliant: Your device is not fully compliant, but you can still use network services. Register your device to resolve this status.
• Blocked: Your device is blocked, and you will not be able to use it on local networks. To unblock, register your device and pay any applicable taxes.

How to Find Your Mobile IMEI Number

To register your mobile, you need its IMEI number. Here’s how to find it:

1. *Dial #06# on your mobile device. The IMEI number will appear on your screen.
2. Check in Settings: Go to your phone’s settings, usually under “About Phone” or similar sections.
3. On the Device Box: Often, the IMEI number is printed on the original box of your device.

Key Points to Remember When Registering Your Mobile

• Free Registration for First Device: If you are returning from abroad, PTA allows free registration for your first device. Additional devices require payment of applicable taxes.
• Registration Deadline: If you plan to stay in Pakistan for more than 60 days, make sure to register your device within this period. Unregistered devices will be blocked after 60 days.
• Buy PTA Approved Devices: When purchasing a new mobile phone, ensure it has a PTA-approved sticker on its box. This avoids the hassle of registering the device separately.

FAQs

1. What happens if I don’t register my mobile with PTA?
If you do not register your mobile, it will be blocked after a certain period, and you won’t be able to use it on any Pakistani network.

2. Can foreigners register their mobile devices with PTA?
Yes, foreigners can register their devices. They need to follow the same registration steps but must provide relevant identification, such as a passport number.

3. Is there a fee for registering mobile devices with PTA?
PTA allows the registration of one device free of cost if brought from abroad. For additional devices or specific conditions, taxes may apply.

4. How do I know if my device requires tax payment?
After registering on the DIRBS portal or via SMS, PTA will inform you if your device is subject to tax.

5. Can I register my device after it has been blocked?
Yes, you can still register a blocked device by following the registration steps and paying any applicable taxes to unblock it.