Generate a QR Code for a Phone Number (tel)
Create a QR code that initiates a phone call or opens the dialer with a pre-filled number. Covers the tel: and sms: URI schemes, international formatting, and USSD code encoding.
Detailed Explanation
QR Codes for Phone Numbers
Phone QR codes use the tel: URI scheme to encode a phone number. When scanned, the device opens the phone dialer with the number pre-filled, and the user can initiate the call with one tap.
The tel URI Format
tel:+15551234567
Always use the international format with the + country code prefix. This ensures the number works regardless of which country the scanner is in.
Formatting Guidelines
- Use E.164 format —
+followed by country code and subscriber number, no spaces or dashes:tel:+442071234567 - No visual formatting — Do not include parentheses, dashes, or dots within the tel URI. These are for human readability only.
- Extension support — Some devices support the
extparameter:tel:+15551234567;ext=890
SMS QR Codes
To open the messaging app instead of the dialer, use the sms: scheme:
sms:+15551234567
To pre-fill a message body (support varies by device):
sms:+15551234567?body=I%20am%20interested%20in%20your%20product
Note: iOS uses &body= while Android uses ?body=, and some implementations use sms:+number;body=. For maximum compatibility, keep it simple with just the number.
USSD Codes
You can also encode USSD codes (like *#06# to check IMEI):
tel:*%2306%23
The * and # characters must be percent-encoded in some scanners, though many handle them literally.
Platform Behavior
- Smartphones — Open the native dialer with the number pre-filled. The user must tap "Call" to initiate.
- Tablets — May open a VoIP app (FaceTime, Google Duo) or show an error if no cellular capability exists.
- Desktop — May open Skype, FaceTime, or another VoIP application if configured.
Security
The tel: scheme never auto-dials. The user always sees the number and must explicitly initiate the call. This prevents malicious QR codes from making unauthorized calls.
Use Case
Phone QR codes are used on business cards, customer service desks, retail store displays, emergency contact signs, restaurant tables for ordering, and printed advertisements. They are especially useful for elderly users or anyone who finds it difficult to type phone numbers on a small screen.