What an IMEI number is and why you need it
Your IMEI number is a 15-digit code that uniquely identifies your phone or tablet on cellular networks. It stands for International Mobile Equipment Identity. Every device that connects to a cell network has one, and it stays the same for the life of that device.
You need this number when you report a phone stolen, switch carriers, unlock a device, or troubleshoot network problems with your provider. Some repair shops also ask for it before working on your phone. Unlike your phone number or SIM card, the IMEI is tied to the hardware itself — if you get a new SIM card or change carriers, the IMEI stays the same.
Key Takeaways
- Your IMEI is a 15-digit number built into your phone's hardware that identifies it on cellular networks.
- You can find it by dialing *#06# on any phone, checking your phone's settings, or looking at the original box and receipt.
- Android and iPhone have different menu paths, but both take less than a minute to locate.
- Write down your IMEI and keep it somewhere safe in case you need to report your phone lost or stolen.
Finding your IMEI by dialing a code
The fastest way to find your IMEI on almost any phone is to open the dialer and type *#06#, then press call. Your IMEI will appear on the screen when ready. This works on iPhones, Android phones, and most older phones — it does not require any special permissions or settings access.
Write down all 15 digits. If your phone has two SIM card slots (a dual-SIM phone), you may see two IMEI numbers listed — one for each slot. Both are valid; the first one is usually the primary IMEI.
Finding your IMEI in iPhone settings
On an iPhone, open Settings, then tap General, then About. Scroll down until you see the field labeled IMEI. The 15-digit number appears directly below that label.
If you have an older iPhone that still has a physical SIM tray, you can also remove the SIM card tray and look at the small printed number on the tray itself — though the Settings method is more reliable. You can copy the IMEI from the About screen by pressing and holding on the number, then selecting Copy.
Finding your IMEI in Android settings
On Android, the path depends on your phone's manufacturer, but the general route is Settings > About Phone (or About Device). Look for a field labeled IMEI, IMEI 1, or Device ID. The 15-digit number will be listed there.
Some Android phones split this information across multiple screens. If you do not see IMEI in the main About section, try Settings > About Phone > Status or Device Information. Samsung phones often list it under Settings > About Phone > Status Information. If you cannot find it in settings, use the *#06# dialer method instead — it works on all Android phones.
Finding your IMEI on the physical device or box
You can also find your IMEI printed on the device itself or on the original packaging. On many phones, the IMEI is printed on a label inside the battery compartment — though most modern phones have non-removable batteries, so this method is less common now.
Check the original box your phone came in. The IMEI is often printed on a label on the back or inside. Your receipt or invoice from the carrier or retailer may also list it. If you bought the phone from a carrier store, they have a record of the IMEI in their system and can look it up for you if you provide your account number and phone number.
What to do if you cannot find your IMEI
If your phone will not turn on or the screen is broken, try the *#06# method anyway — the dialer may still work even if you cannot see the display clearly. If that does not work, contact your carrier directly. They can look up your IMEI using your account information and phone number.
If you bought the phone from a retailer like Best Buy or Walmart, they may also have the IMEI on file from the original sale. Bring your receipt and ID, and they can retrieve it. For older phones, the original box is often your best source if the device itself is not accessible.
Keeping your IMEI safe
Write down your IMEI and store it somewhere separate from your phone — a notebook, a password manager, or an email to yourself. If your phone is ever lost or stolen, you can give this number to your carrier, and they can block the device from connecting to their network. This prevents someone else from using your phone on a cellular network, even if they replace the SIM card.
You do not need to keep your IMEI secret the way you would a password. It is not sensitive information — it is straightforward the hardware identifier for your device. Sharing it with a repair shop or your carrier is safe and necessary for them to help you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can someone use my phone if they have my IMEI number?
No. The IMEI identifies your device to the network, but it does not unlock the phone or give access to your data. Someone would still need your PIN, password, or biometric to use the phone itself. The IMEI is useful only to carriers and repair shops for identification purposes.
Do I have a different IMEI for Wi-Fi and cellular?
No. Your IMEI is only for cellular connections. Wi-Fi uses a different identifier called a MAC address, which you can find in your network settings if you need it. The IMEI applies only to the cellular radio in your device.
What if my phone shows two IMEI numbers?
Your phone likely has two SIM card slots (dual-SIM). Each slot has its own IMEI. If you only use one SIM, you typically only need the first IMEI. Both numbers are valid identifiers for your device on their respective networks.
Can I change my IMEI number?
No. The IMEI is permanently programmed into your phone's hardware when it is manufactured. It cannot be changed through settings or software. If someone claims they can change your IMEI, they are either mistaken or offering an illegal service.
Why does my carrier need my IMEI?
Your carrier uses the IMEI to identify your specific device on their network, manage your account, and block stolen phones. If you switch carriers or get a new phone, they use the IMEI to set up service on the new device or confirm the old one is no longer in use.