Phone QR Code: Create One-Tap Call Codes for Business Cards (2025)

A phone QR code is a scannable image that opens the phone dialer with a number pre-entered. One scan, one tap to call. No typing required.

Put one on your business card, and prospects can call you instantly. Add one to customer support materials, and help is one scan away.

What Is a Phone QR Code?

A phone QR code encodes a phone number using the tel: URI scheme. When scanned, the user's phone opens its dialer with your number ready to call. They tap the call button to connect.

Unlike email or contact forms, phone QR codes create an immediate connection. One scan, one tap, you're talking.

Why Use Phone QR Codes?

Eliminate Typing Errors

Nobody types phone numbers correctly on the first try. A QR code removes the possibility of wrong numbers entirely.

Faster Connection

65% of consumers prefer calling over filling out online forms (Google). A phone QR code makes calling the easiest option.

Professional Impression

A QR code on a business card signals tech-savviness while providing genuine utility.

Accessibility

For users who struggle with small text or have difficulty typing, QR codes make phone numbers accessible.

Common Uses

Business Cards

The most popular use case. Add a phone QR code to your business card alongside the printed number. Contacts scan to call without typing.

Customer Support

Place on product packaging, user manuals, or warranty cards. Customers scan to reach support instantly.

Emergency Contacts

Medical alert bracelets, equipment labels, or safety signage can include phone QR codes for quick access to emergency services.

Service Materials

Restaurants, hotels, and service businesses add phone codes to menus, room cards, or brochures for easy reservations.

Real Estate Signs

Property listings with phone QR codes let potential buyers call the agent without writing down numbers.

How to Create a Phone QR Code

Step 1: Enter the Phone Number

Use the full international format:

• United States: +1 555 123 4567
• United Kingdom: +44 20 1234 5678
• Germany: +49 30 123456
• Japan: +81 3 1234 5678

Step 2: Customize the Design

Use our Phone QR Code Generator to add:

• Brand colors
• Company logo
• Custom frame or border

Phone codes are static, so customization won't affect scanning reliability.

Step 3: Test the Code

Before printing: Scan with multiple phones to verify:

• The dialer opens (not a web browser)
• The correct number appears
• The full number including country code is displayed

Step 4: Download and Print

Export as:

• SVG: Best for print (scales to any size)
• PNG: Good for digital use or small print runs

For business cards, ensure the QR code is at least 0.8 inches (2 cm) square for reliable scanning.

Phone QR Code Format

The technical format is simple:

tel:+15551234567

That's it. The tel: prefix tells the phone to open the dialer, and the number follows in international format.

Some generators support additional features:

• tel:+15551234567,,,1234 - Pauses then dials extension 1234
• tel:*67+15551234567 - Blocks caller ID (carrier dependent)

Best Practices

Size Matters

For reliable scanning:

• Minimum: 0.8 inches (2 cm) square
• Optimal: 1+ inches (2.5+ cm) for quick scans
• Maximum distance: Size should be 1/10th of the expected scanning distance

High Contrast

Dark codes on light backgrounds scan best. Avoid low-contrast color combinations that make scanning difficult.

Add Context

Label the QR code: "Scan to Call" or "Call Us" so users know what will happen before scanning.

Provide Alternative

Always print the phone number alongside the QR code. Not everyone uses QR scanning, and having both options maximizes reach.

Limitations

• Confirmation required: Users must tap to call—no auto-dial
• Smartphone only: Feature phones may not support tel: links from QR scans
• Call charges apply: Users pay their normal calling rates
• No tracking: The QR code itself doesn't track scans

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the call start automatically?

No. For security, phones require users to confirm by tapping the call button. The QR code just opens the dialer with the number ready.

Does it work internationally?

Yes, when you include the full country code. Callers pay their carrier's international rates if calling across borders.

Can I include an extension?

Yes, using comma pauses: tel:+15551234567,,,1234 dials the number, pauses, then dials extension 1234. Support varies by phone.

Does it work on tablets?

Tablets with cellular capability can place calls. WiFi-only tablets may show the number but can't dial. Some tablets support VoIP calling.

How is this different from an SMS QR code?

A phone QR code initiates a voice call. An SMS QR code opens the messaging app for text. Use phone for immediate conversation, SMS for asynchronous messaging.

Phone vs SMS vs Contact Methods

Create Your Phone QR Code

Ready to make your phone number instantly callable? Our Phone QR Code Generator is free, requires no account, and creates codes that never expire.

Perfect for business cards, customer support, or anywhere a phone call is the best next step.