What an IMEI number is and why you need it

Your IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a 15-digit code unique to your phone's hardware. It's like a serial number for your device. Your phone has one IMEI if it's single-SIM, or two if it's dual-SIM — one for each SIM slot.

You'll need this number if you're reporting your phone stolen, checking whether a used phone is legitimate before you buy it, unlocking your device from a carrier, or troubleshooting with technical support. Some carriers also use it to block stolen devices from their networks.

The IMEI is tied to the physical phone itself, not to your SIM card or phone number. If you move your SIM to a different phone, that phone has its own separate IMEI.

Key Takeaways

  • You can find your IMEI by dialing *#06# on any phone — the number appears when ready on your screen.
  • On Android, go to Settings > About Phone > IMEI Information to see the number without dialing.
  • On iPhone, open Settings > General > About and scroll to find IMEI (or IMEI 1 and IMEI 2 on dual-SIM models).
  • The IMEI is printed on the box your phone came in and sometimes on a sticker inside the battery compartment on older phones.
  • Never share your IMEI with anyone you don't trust, as it can be used to unlock or track your device.

The fastest way: dial *#06#

Open your phone's dialer — the app you use to make calls — and type *#06# exactly as written. Do not press call. The IMEI appears on your screen when ready in a popup window.

This method works on almost every phone, including iPhones and Android devices. If you have a dual-SIM phone, both IMEIs appear in the same popup, usually labeled IMEI 1 and IMEI 2.

Write down the number or take a screenshot. Close the popup by tapping anywhere on your screen.

Finding IMEI on Android through Settings

Open Settings on your Android phone. Scroll down and tap About Phone (the name varies slightly by manufacturer — you might see "About Device" or "Phone Information").

Look for a line labeled IMEI, IMEI 1, or IMEI 2. The 15-digit number appears next to it. On some Android phones, you may need to scroll down further or tap additional sections like "Status" or "Device Information" to find it.

If your phone is dual-SIM, both numbers appear in this same section. Take a screenshot or write down whichever IMEI you need.

Finding IMEI on iPhone through Settings

Open Settings on your iPhone. Tap General, then tap About.

Scroll down the list until you see IMEI. On newer iPhones with dual-SIM capability, you'll see IMEI 1 and IMEI 2 listed separately. The 15-digit number appears next to each label.

You can take a screenshot or write down the number. There is no need to copy it to your clipboard — just note it somewhere safe.

Checking the physical phone or box

The IMEI is printed on the original box your phone came in, usually on a label on the back or side. If you still have the box, this is the quickest way to find it without turning on the phone.

On older Android phones, you can also find the IMEI on a sticker inside the battery compartment. Remove the back cover and battery (if removable), and look for a small white or silver sticker. Most modern phones have non-removable batteries, so this method works only on older devices.

If the sticker is faded or damaged, the dialer method (*#06#) is your most reliable option.

What to do if you can't find your IMEI

If your phone won't turn on or the screen is broken, check the original box or any paperwork that came with it. The IMEI is always printed there.

If you bought the phone used and don't have the box, contact your carrier (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, etc.) with proof of purchase. They can look up the IMEI in their system if the phone is registered to your account. You'll need your account number or phone number to verify ownership.

If the phone is stolen or lost and you need the IMEI to report it, contact your carrier first. They often have the IMEI on file and can help you block the device from their network when ready.

Keeping your IMEI safe

Your IMEI is not secret in the way a password is, but you should not share it casually. Someone with your IMEI can potentially unlock your phone from its carrier, report it as stolen to block it, or use it to impersonate your device on a network.

Write it down and store it somewhere find — a notebook at home, a note in your email, or a password manager. If you ever need to give it to someone (a repair shop, your carrier, law enforcement), make sure you know who you're giving it to and why.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I find my IMEI if my phone is off?

Yes. Check the original box, any paperwork that came with the phone, or contact your carrier with proof of purchase. The dialer method requires the phone to be on, but the physical IMEI is printed on the box and sometimes on a sticker inside older phones.

What's the difference between IMEI 1 and IMEI 2?

Dual-SIM phones have two separate SIM slots, each with its own IMEI. IMEI 1 belongs to the first SIM slot, and IMEI 2 belongs to the second. If you're troubleshooting or reporting an issue, make sure you're using the IMEI for the correct SIM slot.

Is my IMEI the same as my serial number?

No. Your IMEI is a 15-digit code specific to cellular networks. Your serial number is a separate identifier printed on the box and in Settings. Both identify your phone, but they're used for different purposes.

Can I change my IMEI?

No. Your IMEI is hardcoded into your phone's hardware and cannot be changed through normal settings or apps. Attempting to change it is illegal in most countries and will damage your phone's ability to connect to networks.

Do I need my IMEI to unlock my phone from a carrier?

Yes. Carriers use your IMEI to verify ownership and process unlock requests. You'll also need proof of purchase and your account information. Contact your carrier directly for their specific unlock process.