Where to find your serial number in Settings

The fastest way to find your iPhone's serial number is through Settings on the phone itself. Open Settings, tap General, then tap About. Scroll down until you see the line labeled Serial Number — it's a string of letters and numbers, usually 12 characters long. You can tap and hold the serial number to copy it, which is useful if you need to paste it into a form or email.

This method works on all iPhone models running iOS 5 or later. The serial number stays the same throughout the phone's life and doesn't change when you update iOS or reset the device.

Key Takeaways

  • Your serial number appears in Settings > General > About, and you can copy it by tapping and holding the text.
  • The serial number is a 12-character code of letters and numbers that uniquely identifies your specific iPhone.
  • If you've lost access to the phone, the serial number is printed on the physical device — check the back of the phone or under the SIM tray.
  • Apple Support and carriers use the serial number to look up warranty status, service history, and device details.
  • The IMEI number (found in the same Settings menu) is different from the serial number and is used by carriers to identify your phone on their network.

Finding the serial number on the physical device

If your iPhone won't turn on or you can't access Settings, you can find the serial number printed directly on the device. On most iPhones, the serial number is engraved on the back of the phone near the bottom. On older models (iPhone 6s and earlier), you may need to remove the SIM tray to see it — the number is printed on the tray itself or on the slot inside.

The serial number on the physical device is the same one that appears in Settings. It's printed in small text, so you may need good lighting or a magnifying glass to read it clearly. Take a photo of it if you plan to reference it later.

Understanding what the serial number is used for

Your iPhone's serial number is a unique identifier that Apple and your carrier use to look up information about your specific phone. When you contact Apple Support, they may ask for this number to pull up your device's warranty status, repair history, and any service records. Your carrier also uses it to manage your account and confirm which device is connected to your plan.

The serial number is also important if your phone is lost or stolen — you can provide it to law enforcement or your carrier to help track or disable the device. It's different from your IMEI number, which is what carriers use to identify your phone on their network, though both appear in the same Settings menu.

Difference between serial number and IMEI

Your iPhone has both a serial number and an IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number, and they serve different purposes. The serial number is Apple's internal identifier for your specific phone and is used for warranty and service. The IMEI is a 15-digit number used by cellular networks worldwide to identify your phone on their network.

You can find both in the same place: Settings > General > About. The IMEI appears as a separate line below the serial number. If you have a dual-SIM iPhone, you'll see two IMEI numbers (one for each SIM slot) but only one serial number. When your carrier asks for a device identifier, they usually want the IMEI, not the serial number.

Finding the serial number if you've forgotten your passcode

If you've forgotten your passcode and can't access Settings, you have two options. First, check the physical device — the serial number is printed on the back or under the SIM tray, so you don't need to unlock the phone to read it. Second, if you set up the phone with an Apple ID, you can visit iCloud.com, sign in, and go to Find My iPhone to see your device's serial number listed there.

If you use a Mac or iPad connected to the same Apple ID, you can also find the serial number by opening System Settings (or System Preferences on older Macs), going to General > About, and looking for your iPhone in the list of devices. Click on your iPhone to see its serial number and other details.

Recording your serial number for future reference

It's a good idea to write down or photograph your iPhone's serial number and store it somewhere safe. Keep it in a document on your computer, in a password manager, or even a physical notebook. If your phone is lost, stolen, or needs service, having the serial number readily available will speed up the process with Apple Support or your carrier.

You can also add it to your phone's emergency information. Go to Health app > Medical ID > Edit and add your iPhone's serial number in the notes section. This way, if someone finds your phone, they can see the serial number and contact you or Apple with it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone use my serial number to unlock my iPhone?

No. The serial number is a public identifier used for warranty and service — it doesn't unlock the phone or provide access to your data. Your passcode and Face ID or Touch ID are what protect your iPhone. Sharing your serial number with Apple Support or a carrier is safe.

What if the serial number on the back of my phone doesn't match the one in Settings?

This is extremely rare but can happen if the phone was refurbished or repaired by someone other than Apple. Contact Apple Support with both numbers — they can investigate whether the device is authentic or has been serviced improperly.

Is the serial number the same as the phone number?

No. Your phone number is assigned by your carrier and can be changed or transferred to a different device. The serial number is a permanent identifier for that specific iPhone and never changes.

Do I need the serial number to sell my iPhone?

It's helpful to have it available so the buyer can verify the phone's history and check for recalls or service issues. You should also remove the device from your Apple ID account before selling it, which you can do through iCloud.com or Settings on the phone.