Where to find your IMEI on an iPhone

Your iPhone's IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a 15-digit number that identifies your specific device to cellular networks. You can find it in three places without needing any special tools or apps: in the Settings app, on the physical SIM tray, or by dialing a code.

The fastest method is to open Settings, tap General, then tap About. Scroll down until you see "IMEI" listed. Write down or screenshot the full 15-digit number — this is the one your carrier and Apple use to identify your phone.

If you prefer not to use Settings, eject your SIM tray using the small pin that came with your iPhone (or a straightened paperclip). The IMEI is printed on the metal tray itself. You can also dial *#06# on any iPhone and the IMEI will appear on your screen, though this method works the same way on any phone.

Key Takeaways

  • Your IMEI is a 15-digit number unique to your iPhone that identifies it to cellular networks and is used by carriers and Apple for service and support.
  • The easiest way to find it is Settings > General > About, then scroll to find IMEI listed on that screen.
  • You can also find your IMEI printed on the SIM tray itself, or by dialing *#06# and reading the number that appears.
  • Keep your IMEI handy if you need to report your phone lost or stolen, contact your carrier about service issues, or work with Apple Support.

Why you might need your IMEI

Your IMEI serves as proof of ownership and device identity. If your iPhone is lost or stolen, you can give this number to your carrier so they can block the device from connecting to their network, making it useless to someone else. Apple also uses it to verify your device during warranty claims or repairs.

Your carrier needs your IMEI if you switch phones, set up a new line, or troubleshoot network problems. Some carriers ask for it when you call about service issues because it lets them pull up your device's history and any known problems with that model or batch.

The difference between IMEI and other iPhone numbers

Your iPhone has several identification numbers, and it is straightforward to mix them up. The IMEI identifies the phone itself to cellular networks. The ICCID (Integrated Circuit Card ID) is printed on your SIM card and identifies the SIM card, not the phone — if you swap SIM cards, this number changes but your IMEI does not.

Your serial number is another unique identifier Apple uses for warranty and repair tracking. You can find it in the same Settings > General > About screen, listed separately from the IMEI. The serial number is shorter and uses letters and numbers in a different pattern than the IMEI.

Your phone's model number (like A2846 or A3094) tells you which iPhone version you own — useful if you need to order the right case or charger. This is also in Settings > General > About. None of these numbers are interchangeable, so if someone asks for your IMEI specifically, do not give them your serial number or model number instead.

What to do if you cannot find your IMEI

If your iPhone is powered off or will not turn on, you can still find the IMEI on the SIM tray without needing the phone to work. Eject the tray and read the number printed on the metal. This works even if the phone is completely dead.

If your SIM tray is lost or damaged and you cannot access Settings, contact your carrier with your phone number. They can look up your IMEI in their system because it is linked to your account. Apple Support can also retrieve it if you have your original purchase receipt or proof of ownership.

Keeping your IMEI safe

Your IMEI is not a secret like a password, but you should not share it casually. Legitimate reasons to give it out include contacting your carrier about service, working with Apple Support, or reporting your phone lost or stolen to law enforcement. Do not post it on social media or give it to someone you do not trust.

If your phone is lost or stolen, contact your carrier when ready with your IMEI so they can blacklist the device. This prevents someone else from using it on that carrier's network. You can also report it to local police and to Apple, though the carrier blacklist is the most effective step you can take.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone use my iPhone if they have the IMEI?

Not on a legitimate carrier network. The IMEI is how carriers identify and block stolen phones. However, someone with your IMEI could potentially contact Apple Support and claim to be you, so do not share it with strangers. If your phone is stolen, give the IMEI to your carrier right away so they can block it.

Is the IMEI the same as the phone number?

No. Your phone number is tied to your SIM card and carrier account. Your IMEI is tied to the physical phone itself. You can move your SIM card to a different iPhone and your phone number goes with it, but the IMEI changes because you are using a different device.

Do I need my IMEI to sell my iPhone?

Many buyers ask for it to verify the phone is not blacklisted by a carrier. You can provide it safely — it is not sensitive information in the way a password is. Before you sell, make sure your carrier has removed the phone from your account so the new owner can set up it on their own plan.

What if my IMEI shows as blacklisted?

This usually means the phone was reported lost or stolen by a previous owner, or there is a billing dispute with a carrier. Contact your carrier with proof of purchase to see if they can remove the blacklist. If you bought it secondhand, you may need to work with the seller to resolve the original issue.