A method of determining whether a wireless packet data service can be activated in a dormant state. To activate one of a plurality of packet data services in the dormant state, a BS transmits to an MS a Page Message containing an SR ID identifying the service to be activated. If a service instance for the service is unavailable, the MS transmits to the BS a response message indicating that the service cannot be reconnected. The BS then terminates immediately, thereby saving radio resources and improving system performance.