Phone QR Code Generator
Create free phone QR codes instantly. Open the dialer app with a phone number ready to call. Perfect for business cards, signs, flyers, and customer support.
Tip: Use international format (e.g., +15551234567) for best compatibility
What Is a Phone QR Code?
A phone QR code is a two-dimensional barcode that encodes a telephone number using a tel: link. When scanned with a smartphone camera, it opens the device’s dialer app with the number pre-filled, so the user only has to tap call. This makes it incredibly easy for people to contact your business without manually typing your number.
How Phone QR Codes Work
Phone QR codes store a tel: link inside the QR data, such as tel:+15551234567. When someone scans the code, their device recognizes the tel: format and launches the default dialer app. The phone number is already entered, and the user simply presses the call button. This reduces friction and prevents mistakes when dialing.
Why Phone QR Codes Are Useful
Phone QR codes are ideal anywhere you want people to call you quickly—on print ads, storefronts, vehicles, flyers, brochures, and business cards. Instead of reading and typing a long number (and possibly making errors), users scan once and call. This is especially powerful in busy environments where every second counts, like restaurants, service companies, and real estate.
Common Uses
- Business cards – Let prospects call you with a single scan
- Storefront windows – Make it easy for people to call when you’re closed
- Service vehicles – Allow passersby to instantly call for quotes or emergencies
- Flyers and posters – Turn print promotions into direct phone inquiries
- Real estate signs – Let buyers call agents instantly about a property
- Restaurants and cafés – Enable quick call-ahead ordering or reservations
How to Create a Phone QR Code
- Enter your phone number: Type the phone number you want people to call. Include the country code if you expect international callers (for example, +1 for the United States).
- Choose your formatting: For best compatibility, use an international format like +15551234567. Avoid adding spaces, dashes, or extra characters in the encoded number, even if you print them separately as readable text.
- Customize your QR code: Customize colors, add a logo, and adjust advanced settings like size, error correction level, and quiet zone so your phone QR code matches your brand and design.
- Preview and download: Preview your phone QR code to ensure it’s easy to see and scan. Then download it in your preferred format (PNG, SVG, or PDF) for print or digital use.
- Test your QR code: Scan the QR code on multiple devices to confirm it opens the dialer with the correct number. Make sure the call button appears clearly and that the number matches what you expect.
Best Practices (Do's & Don'ts)
Do's
- Use an international phone number format with country code when possible
- Test the QR code on both iOS and Android devices
- Print the phone number in plain text near the QR code as a backup
- Place the QR code where it’s easy to see and scan at eye level
- Use high-contrast colors between the QR code and its background
- Use clear labels like “Scan to call us” so users know what will happen
Don'ts
- Don't encode multiple different numbers in a single QR code
- Don't use low-contrast color combinations that make scanning difficult
- Don't make the QR code too small for the viewing distance
- Don't hide the QR code in cluttered designs or busy backgrounds
- Don't frequently change your phone number after printing materials
- Don't forget to verify that the number is entered correctly before printing
Troubleshooting QR Code Issues
Dialer doesn’t open
If scanning the QR code does not open the dialer, the QR scanner might not recognize tel: links, or the device may be using an outdated app. Try scanning with the built-in camera app on iOS or Android, or use a modern QR scanning app that supports phone links.
Wrong phone number appears
If the number in the dialer doesn’t match what you expect, double-check the number you entered when creating the QR code. Make sure there are no typos, missing digits, or unsupported characters. Regenerate the QR code if you changed the number.
QR code is hard to scan
If users struggle to scan the QR code, it may be too small, too dense, or low contrast. Increase its size, improve contrast (dark code on a light background), and avoid glossy surfaces or curved placements that cause glare or distortion.
Users don’t realize it will start a call
Some users may hesitate to scan if they’re not sure what will happen. Add a small label like “Scan to call us now” or “Tap to call” near the QR code so expectations are clear.
International callers can’t connect
If you expect international customers, use full international formatting with a country code (for example, +44, +1, +61). Local-only formats may not work correctly for people outside your country.
Printed QR code looks blurry
Blurry or pixelated codes can cause scanning problems. For print, use high-resolution PNG, PDF, or vector SVG files. Avoid stretching a small image; instead, download a larger version or use SVG so it scales cleanly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change the phone number after printing the QR code?
No. Phone QR codes generated here are static, meaning the encoded number cannot be changed once the code is created and printed. If you update your phone number, you’ll need to generate a new QR code and update your materials.
Do phone QR codes work on all smartphones?
Most modern smartphones support tel: links. When scanning the QR code with the built-in camera or a modern QR app, the dialer should open with the number pre-filled. Behavior may vary slightly between devices and scanning apps, so always test on multiple phones.
Can I track calls from a phone QR code?
Static phone QR codes themselves don’t provide analytics. You can estimate engagement by using a dedicated phone number just for campaigns that use the QR code. Call tracking services or virtual numbers can also provide detailed reporting.
Is it safe to use a phone QR code in public?
Yes. A phone QR code simply stores your phone number and does not collect personal information. However, be prepared for potential spam or unexpected calls if the number is displayed publicly. Consider using a business or call-routing number.
Can I add a logo or brand colors to my phone QR code?
Yes. You can customize your phone QR code with brand colors and a small logo as long as you keep strong contrast and don’t cover the key finder patterns. We recommend keeping any logo within about 20–30% of the code area and testing thoroughly.
What number format should I use for the best compatibility?
For maximum compatibility—especially with international callers—use an E.164-style format with country code, such as +15551234567. Avoid spaces, parentheses, and dashes in the encoded number, even if you print a more readable version nearby.
Ready to Create Your Phone QR Code?
Used by local businesses, service providers, and professionals who want more calls with less friction.
Generate a custom phone QR code in seconds. No sign-up required, completely free, and ready to download for your business cards, signs, and marketing materials.
Create Your Phone QR Code Now