Under new DoT regulations, users can now easily switch between prepaid and postpaid connections, or vice versa, within 30 days using OTP-based KYC.
Changing your mobile plan – from prepaid to postpaid or postpaid to prepaid – no longer requires a lengthy wait. The Indian Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has implemented a significant and helpful change for mobile subscribers. This process can now be completed within just 30 days, using only OTP-based KYC.
What is the new DoT regulation?
The Department of Telecommunications announced this change on its official social media platform, X (formerly Twitter). According to the department, mobile users can now switch from prepaid to postpaid or postpaid to prepaid after a 30-day cooling-off period for first-time changes.
Previously, this period was 90 days, meaning users had to wait three months to transition between plans. This new system aims to streamline digital processes and provide consumers with a better experience.
The entire process will be completed using OTP-based KYC
The DoT has stated that this entire process is now significantly simpler and digital. The user only needs to visit an authorized store of their telecom company (such as Jio, Airtel, Vi, BSNL) and complete the OTP-based KYC process. Afterward, their connection will be switched from prepaid to postpaid or vice versa.
This feature has been introduced to improve customer convenience, eliminating lengthy formalities and paperwork.
Benefit for first-time plan changers
This rule primarily applies to users changing their connection type for the first time. If you are changing your number from prepaid to postpaid or vice versa for the first time, you will now only have to wait 30 days instead of 90.
This will particularly benefit consumers who wish to switch providers due to poor service, slow speeds, or expensive plans.
Regulations for frequent changers
The DoT has also clarified that the 90-day cooling-off period will remain in effect for customers who frequently change their service. If you have already switched services once, you will have to wait 90 days before switching again.
However, even in this case, the change process will be completed only through OTP-based KYC.
What to do if you need a change before the deadline?
In certain situations, if a user does not wish to wait for the 30 or 90-day period, a change is still possible. They will need to undergo the offline KYC process. This requires the customer to visit an authorized sales center or store of the relevant telecom company with their documents and complete the manual KYC process.
This provision has been maintained to avoid inconvenience to users in exceptional circumstances.
Instructions to telecom companies
The DoT has issued clear instructions to all telecom operators to fully inform customers about the service change regulations. They must also ensure that the OTP-based KYC process is completely secure, fast, and transparent.
Instructions were also given that every customer should be informed at the time of the change whether they are changing services for the first time or have changed them before, so that the cooling-off period rules can be followed.
Why was this change necessary?
In recent years, user complaints have increased regarding the time it takes to switch networks. The 90-day timeframe was an obstacle for customers, especially when they needed better service immediately.
This new DoT decision will allow customers to change services immediately and will also boost competition in the telecom industry, ultimately resulting in better plans and networks for users.
