Phone number QR code generator

What is inside a phone QR code

The code holds a tel: link with your number in international format, for example tel:+15551234567. That is the standard way to write a phone number as a link, and every phone camera recognises it.

When you type a number with spaces, dashes or brackets, the generator removes them, because spaces are not allowed in these links. It keeps the leading +, the digits, and * and # for service codes. If you leave out the country code, the generator reminds you to add it.

A number with a country code is about 16 characters, which makes a very simple code: 21 squares across. It scans easily at 2 cm (0.8 in) and from further away than most codes of the same size.

What happens when someone scans it

• iPhone: the Camera shows a prompt with the number. Tapping it offers to call.
• Android: the camera or Google Lens shows the number, and tapping it opens the dialler with the number filled in.

Either way, the person sees the number and chooses to call. That is a safety feature on every phone, and it means a code cannot run up someone’s bill by itself.

Good uses

• Shop windows and doors, for when you are closed: “Scan to call us.”
• Vans, site boards and yard signs for trades, where people are walking or driving past.
• Flyers and door hangers for local services.
• Emergency and on-call numbers on equipment, rental properties and building notices.
• Event staff and stewards, on badges and lanyards.

Add the number as text next to the code too. Some people prefer to type it, and it shows them what they are about to call.

Call, text or contact card?

A phone code is the most direct: scan, tap, talk. It is not always the best choice:

• For short questions and bookings, many people would rather text. An SMS QR code opens a message to your number with an optional pre-filled text.
• On a business card, a contact card code is usually better, because it saves your number, email and website for later instead of calling you on the spot.
• For a number with an extension, print the extension next to the code, or point people to a direct line.

Before you print

1. Scan the code with an iPhone and an Android phone, and check the number shown is right, including the country code.
2. Call it once from someone else’s phone to be sure it rings where you expect.
3. Print it at least 2 cm (0.8 in) wide, with a white border around it, dark on light.
4. Add a short label like “Scan to call” and the number in plain text.

The code is static: your number is stored in the squares themselves, so it works offline, without our site, and for as long as the number is yours. Read do QR codes expire? for why that matters, and see the QR code size guide for larger signs.