What an IMEI number is and why you need it

Your IMEI number is a 15-digit code that uniquely identifies your phone to mobile networks worldwide. Think of it like a serial number for your device — no two phones have the same IMEI. You need it when you report a phone stolen, switch carriers, unlock a device, or troubleshoot network problems with your provider.

The IMEI is different from your phone number or SIM card number. Your phone number changes if you switch carriers or get a new SIM; your IMEI stays with the physical device for its entire life. If you ever need to prove ownership to a carrier or law enforcement, the IMEI is what they ask for.

Key Takeaways

  • You can find your IMEI by dialing *#06# on any phone — the number appears when ready on the screen.
  • On Android, go to Settings > About Phone > IMEI Information to see the number without dialing.
  • On iPhone, go to Settings > General > About and scroll to find IMEI listed as "IMEI".
  • Your phone's original box, SIM card tray, or carrier account also shows the IMEI if you cannot access the phone itself.
  • Write down or screenshot your IMEI and store it somewhere safe in case you need to report the phone lost or stolen.

The fastest method: dial the IMEI code

The quickest way to find your IMEI works on nearly every phone, including older models. Open the Phone app (the one you use to make calls), tap the keypad, and dial *#06#. Do not press Call — just type the characters and the IMEI appears on your screen automatically.

This method works even if your phone is locked, has no SIM card, or is not connected to a network. The IMEI displays for a few seconds, so take a screenshot or write it down when ready. If nothing appears, your phone may be too old or damaged to respond to this code, but the other methods below will still work.

Finding your IMEI on Android

On most Android phones, open Settings and scroll down to find About Phone (sometimes called Device Information). Tap it, then look for a section labeled IMEI Information, IMEI, or Status. The 15-digit number appears there. Some phones show two IMEI numbers if they have two SIM card slots — both are valid.

If you cannot find it in Settings, try this path instead: Settings > System > About Phone > IMEI Information. The exact location varies slightly by manufacturer (Samsung, Google Pixel, OnePlus, and others arrange menus differently), but the section always exists somewhere in the About Phone area. If you are still stuck, search "IMEI" in your phone's Settings search bar — most Android phones have a search function at the top of Settings.

Finding your IMEI on iPhone

On any iPhone, go to Settings, then tap General, then tap About. Scroll down through the list until you see IMEI — it is a 15-digit number. If your phone has two SIM cards (physical and eSIM), you may see two IMEI numbers listed separately.

You can also find the IMEI by asking Siri: say "What is my IMEI?" and Siri displays it on the screen. This works even if your phone is locked, as long as Siri is enabled.

Finding your IMEI without turning on the phone

If your phone will not turn on or is too damaged to access, check the original box it came in. Most manufacturers print the IMEI on a label on the back of the box, usually near the barcode. Keep your phone box for this reason — it is proof of ownership if you ever need it.

You can also find the IMEI on your SIM card tray. Power off the phone, use the SIM ejector tool (a small pin that came with your phone) to pop out the tray, and look at the label inside. Some phones print the IMEI there. If neither of these works, contact your mobile carrier with your account information — they have your IMEI on file and can read it to you over the phone or show it in your online account.

What to do once you have your IMEI

Write down your IMEI and store it somewhere safe — a notes app, a document on your computer, or even a photo in your email. If your phone is ever stolen, you can give this number to your carrier and law enforcement. Some carriers can block a stolen phone from connecting to their network using the IMEI, which makes it much less useful to a thief.

You may also need your IMEI if you switch carriers and your new carrier needs to verify the phone is compatible with their network, or if you are unlocking a phone to use internationally. Keep it handy but do not share it publicly — while an IMEI alone cannot be used to steal your service, it is still personal device information worth protecting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I find my IMEI if my phone is locked?

Yes. Dial *#06# and the IMEI appears without unlocking. On iPhone, you can ask Siri to show your IMEI. You can also check the original box, the SIM tray, or call your carrier — none of these require the phone to be unlocked.

What if I see two IMEI numbers?

Your phone has two SIM card slots — one physical SIM and one eSIM (digital), or two physical SIM slots. Both numbers are valid and belong to your phone. If you are reporting the phone stolen, provide both numbers to your carrier.

Is my IMEI the same as my phone number?

No. Your phone number is assigned by your carrier and changes if you switch carriers or get a new SIM card. Your IMEI is a permanent identifier for the physical phone itself and never changes.

Can someone use my IMEI to track my phone?

An IMEI alone cannot be used to track your location. However, it is still personal information — do not post it publicly on social media or share it with people you do not trust. Only give it to your carrier or law enforcement if needed.

What if the *#06# code does not work?

Your phone may be very old or damaged. Use the Settings method for your phone type (Android or iPhone), check the original box, look at the SIM tray, or contact your carrier. One of these will always work.