Whether You’re Living in France or Just Visiting, Here’s the Easiest Way to Get a French Number Without a SIM Card
Why You Might Need a French Phone Number
If you’re planning to travel, study, or work in France, having a local phone number can be essential. A French number helps you:
- Communicate with locals and services easily
- Register accounts on local or global platforms (like WhatsApp, Uber, or Airbnb)
- Avoid high roaming charges from your home country provider
- Buy or sell items on French platforms like Leboncoin (https://www.leboncoin.fr/)
Even if you’re not physically in France, a French phone number can help you build local presence for business, register for services, or protect your privacy with a second number.
Understanding the French Phone Number System
French phone numbers contain 10 digits, usually presented in this format: 0X XX XX XX XX. The structure is regulated by the Autorité de régulation des communications électroniques, des postes et de la distribution de la presse (ARCEP).
Breakdown of French Number Types:
| Prefix | Type | Region / Use Case |
| 01 | Geographic | Île-de-France (Paris) |
| 02 | Geographic | Northwest France |
| 03 | Geographic | Northeast France |
| 04 | Geographic | Southeast France |
| 05 | Geographic | Southwest France |
| 06 / 07 | Mobile | Mobile phone numbers |
| 08 | Service Numbers | Toll-free, premium-rate, etc. |
| 09 | Non-geographic | VoIP and internet-based lines |
When dialing from outside France, use the country code +33 and drop the initial 0. For example, 06 12 34 56 78 becomes +33 6 12 34 56 78.
Source: ARCEP (https://www.arcep.fr/)
How to Get a French Phone Number in 2025
There are several legitimate methods to obtain a French phone number. Below is a breakdown of the most common ones based on your location and purpose.
Method 1: Buy a SIM Card from a French Carrier
If you’re in France, the most direct method is to purchase a physical SIM card from a local telecom provider. Major French carriers include:
- Orange
- SFR
- Bouygues Telecom
- Free Mobile
You can find these SIMs in airports, retail stores, tabacs (tobacco shops), or supermarkets. Most prepaid SIMs include limited talk time and data but can be topped up online.
Important Note:
Buying a SIM card often requires a valid photo ID or passport, especially for postpaid plans. This is due to French anti-terrorism laws and SIM registration regulations.
Method 2: Use eSIM or Data-Only Services
Some providers offer eSIM or travel SIM cards that work in France. These are particularly useful for short-term visitors who only need data (not SMS or voice calls). Popular names include:
- Airalo
- Holafly
Limitations: These services do not provide a local French number capable of receiving SMS or calls. They’re data-only and typically meant for internet access only.
Method 3: Get a Virtual French Number via an App
If you’re abroad or want a French number without a SIM card, virtual number apps offer a fast, flexible option. One such app is Dingtone.
Why Dingtone Is a Smart Choice for Getting a French Number
Dingtone is a trusted VoIP app that offers French phone numbers you can use from anywhere. It’s especially helpful if you:
- Need a French number to register on local websites or apps
- Want to protect your privacy when buying/selling on platforms like Leboncoin
- Want to separate personal and work communication
Top Features of Dingtone:
- No SIM Card Needed: Get a fully functional French number through Wi-Fi or mobile data.
- Low International Calling Rates: Call over 200+ countries at competitive prices.
- Second Number Functionality: One account can hold up to 20 numbers.
- Receive SMS and Verification Codes: Works with WhatsApp, Google, Facebook, Tinder, etc.
- WeChat Registration Support: Dingtone French numbers can register on WeChat (with friend verification).
- Easy Setup: Install, select number, activate—no paperwork or contract required.
How to Get a French Number on Dingtone
- Download Dingtone on Android or iOS
(Note: Dingtone is not available on app stores in Mainland China. Users need a VPN.) - Create Your Account using email, Apple ID, or Google account.
- Select France as Your Target Country, then choose an available number based on area code.
- Activate Your Number using credits—either earned through in-app tasks or purchased.
- Start Calling or Receiving SMS, just like with a local number.
Comparison Table: How to Get a French Phone Number
| Method | Needs Local Address | Requires ID | Use Outside France | SMS Support | Instant Setup | Cost |
| Local SIM (Orange etc.) | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | Moderate |
| eSIM/Data-Only | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | Moderate |
| Dingtone App | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | Low |
| Free Mobile by Mail | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | Low |
Final Thoughts
Getting a French phone number doesn’t have to involve queues, paperwork, or SIM swaps. Whether you’re a traveler, student, remote worker, or digital entrepreneur, Dingtone offers a flexible way to own a legit French number in just a few minutes.
✅ Use it for SMS verifications
✅ Keep your privacy intact with a second number
✅ Avoid roaming charges
✅ Easy, affordable, and secure
Ready to get started? Try Dingtone and join millions of users worldwide enjoying global communication at local prices.