The fastest way to find your iPhone's IMEI

Your iPhone's IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a 15-digit number that identifies your specific phone to cellular networks. You need it when reporting a lost or stolen phone, switching carriers, or troubleshooting network problems with your provider.

The quickest method is to open Settings, tap General, then About, and scroll down to find the IMEI listed there. This takes about 30 seconds and works on any iPhone running iOS 10 or later. If you cannot access your phone, you can find the same number printed on the physical SIM card tray or on your original iPhone box.

The IMEI is different from your phone number or Apple ID — it is tied to the hardware itself, not your account. If you replace your SIM card or switch carriers, the IMEI stays the same because it identifies the device, not the service.

Key Takeaways

  • Open Settings, tap General, then About, and scroll to find your IMEI listed on that screen.
  • You can also find the IMEI printed on the SIM card tray (the small metal slot on the side of your iPhone) or on the original box your phone came in.
  • The IMEI is a 15-digit number that stays with your phone permanently and identifies it to cellular networks.
  • You will need your IMEI when reporting a phone as lost or stolen, switching carriers, or working with your provider on network issues.

Finding your IMEI through Settings

This is the method to use when your iPhone is powered on and you can unlock it. Open the Settings app (the gray icon with gears), then tap General near the top of the list. Scroll down and tap About — this screen shows your phone's technical information.

Scroll down on the About screen until you see the line labeled IMEI. The 15-digit number next to it is your IMEI. You can tap and hold on the number to copy it, then paste it into an email, note, or message if you need to send it to your carrier or keep a record.

If you do not see IMEI on the About screen, your iPhone may have two SIM cards (a physical SIM and an eSIM). In that case, you will see two IMEI numbers listed — one for each SIM. Both are valid IMEIs for your phone; use whichever one your carrier asks for.

Finding your IMEI on the SIM card tray

If your iPhone is off, damaged, or you cannot unlock it, you can find the IMEI printed on the SIM card tray itself. The SIM tray is the small metal slot on the side of your iPhone (on newer models) or on the right edge (on older models like the iPhone 6 or 7).

To remove the SIM tray, use the small metal ejector tool that came with your iPhone, or straighten a paperclip and insert it into the tiny hole next to the slot. Push gently until the tray pops out. The IMEI is printed on the tray itself — you do not need to remove the SIM card.

Write down the number or take a photo of it. Then slide the tray back into the slot until it clicks. This method works even if your phone will not turn on, as long as the tray is not damaged.

Finding your IMEI on the original box or receipt

If you still have the original iPhone box, the IMEI is printed on a label on the back or bottom of the box. Look for a barcode and the text IMEI or IMEI1 followed by a 15-digit number.

Your original receipt or invoice from the store or carrier where you bought the phone may also list the IMEI. Check the fine print at the bottom or on the back of the receipt. If you bought the phone online, check your email confirmation or account history with the retailer — many include the IMEI in the order details.

Keep in mind that if you have replaced your phone since then, the IMEI on an old box or receipt will not match your current device. This method only works if you are looking up the IMEI for the same phone you originally purchased.

Why your carrier or Apple might ask for your IMEI

Your carrier uses the IMEI to identify your phone on their network. If you report your phone lost or stolen, they can use the IMEI to block it from connecting to their service, which prevents someone else from using it. This is one of the most important reasons to know your IMEI — you can provide it when ready if you need to report a lost phone.

When you switch carriers, the new carrier may ask for your IMEI to confirm your phone is compatible with their network and to set up service. If you are troubleshooting network problems — dropped calls, no signal, or slow data — your carrier may ask for the IMEI to check whether your phone has any known issues on their network.

Apple rarely asks for the IMEI, but they may request it if you are dealing with a hardware warranty claim or repair. Having the number on hand saves time during these conversations.

What to do if you cannot find your IMEI

If the Settings screen does not show an IMEI, the SIM tray is missing or damaged, and you no longer have the original box, contact your carrier directly. They can look up your IMEI using your phone number or account information. This takes a few minutes on a call or through their website.

If you are trying to report a lost phone and cannot access the IMEI, tell your carrier that right away. They can still block the phone using your account number and phone number — the IMEI makes the process faster, but it is not the only way they can help.

For a phone that is powered off or unresponsive, try charging it for at least 30 minutes before assuming the IMEI is inaccessible. Many iPhones will show the About screen even with very low battery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the IMEI the same as my phone number?

No. Your phone number is tied to your SIM card and carrier account, while your IMEI is tied to the physical phone itself. If you switch carriers or replace your SIM card, your phone number changes but your IMEI stays the same. The IMEI identifies the device; the phone number identifies your service.

Can someone use my IMEI to track my phone?

Not in the way location tracking works. The IMEI identifies your phone to the cellular network, but it does not broadcast your location. However, if someone has your IMEI and your carrier account details, they could potentially cause problems, so treat it like you would a credit card number — share it only with your carrier or Apple when necessary.

What if my iPhone has two IMEI numbers?

iPhones with both a physical SIM and an eSIM (electronic SIM) show two IMEI numbers in Settings. Each one corresponds to one SIM card. When your carrier asks for your IMEI, ask which SIM they need — usually it is the one you are actively using for service.

Do I need my IMEI to sell my used iPhone?

Many buyers ask for the IMEI to verify the phone is not reported as lost or stolen. You can provide it from the Settings About screen or from the SIM tray. Before you sell, make sure you have erased all your data by going to Settings, General, Transfer or Reset, and tapping Erase All Content and Settings.

Will my IMEI change if I update iOS?

No. Your IMEI is part of the phone's hardware and never changes, even if you update the operating system, replace the battery, or restore the phone to factory settings. It stays the same for the entire life of the device.