What an IMEI number is and why you need it

Your IMEI number is a 15-digit code that identifies your phone or tablet to cellular networks. It stands for International Mobile Equipment Identity. Every device that connects to a phone network has one, and it is unique to that specific device — like a serial number for your phone.

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 servicing your device. Unlike your phone number or SIM card, the IMEI stays with the physical device itself, even if you change carriers or remove the SIM.

The IMEI is different from your IMSI (the number on your SIM card) and your phone number. Your phone number can move to a new device; your IMEI cannot. This is why carriers use it to identify and track individual devices on their networks.

Key Takeaways

  • You can find your IMEI by dialing *#06# on any phone, which works on Android, iPhone, and most other devices.
  • On Android, go to Settings > About Phone > IMEI Information, or look in the battery compartment if your phone has a removable battery.
  • On iPhone, go to Settings > General > About and scroll to find IMEI.
  • Your device box, receipt, or carrier account also lists the IMEI if you cannot access it through the phone itself.
  • Write down or screenshot your IMEI and store it somewhere safe in case you need it for theft reports or carrier issues.

Finding your IMEI on Android phones

The fastest way on any Android phone is to dial *#06# from your phone's dialer. A screen will appear showing your IMEI number when ready. This works on nearly all Android devices, even if the phone is locked or has no SIM card inserted. Write down the 15-digit number or take a screenshot.

If that code does not work, go to Settings, then tap About Phone (sometimes called About Device). Look for a line labeled IMEI, IMEI 1, or IMEI 2. Phones with two SIM cards will show two IMEI numbers. The first one is usually the primary network connection.

On older Android phones with removable batteries, you can also remove the battery and look inside the battery compartment. The IMEI is often printed on a label inside the phone. This method works even if the phone will not power on, which is useful if your device is damaged.

Finding your IMEI on iPhones

On any iPhone, go to Settings, then tap General, then About. Scroll down through the list until you see IMEI. The 15-digit number appears on that line. You can tap and hold to copy it, or take a screenshot for your records.

You can also dial *#06# on an iPhone just as you would on Android. The IMEI will display on the screen. This method works even if the phone is locked or disabled.

If you no longer have the phone but need the IMEI, check your original iPhone box — Apple prints it on the back. You can also log into your Apple ID account on iCloud.com, go to Find My, select your device, and the IMEI may appear in the device details, depending on your iOS version.

Finding your IMEI on tablets and other devices

Tablets with cellular connections have IMEI numbers just like phones. On an iPad, go to Settings, then General, then About, and scroll to find IMEI. Android tablets follow the same path: Settings > About Tablet > IMEI.

If your tablet does not have a cellular connection, it will not have an IMEI — only Wi-Fi tablets use a different identifier called an UDID. Check whether your device connects to a phone network before looking for an IMEI.

Some older tablets and devices may not display the IMEI in settings at all. In that case, check the original box, receipt, or contact the manufacturer or your carrier with the device serial number. They can look up the IMEI in their system.

Getting your IMEI from your carrier or device box

If you cannot access the IMEI through your device, your carrier has it on file. Call your provider's customer service or log into your online account. Most carriers display the IMEI under device details or account information. This is especially useful if your phone is lost, stolen, or will not turn on.

Check the original box your device came in. Manufacturers print the IMEI on the back of the box, usually near the barcode. If you still have the receipt from purchase, some retailers print it there as well. Take a photo of these for your records.

If you bought the phone used or secondhand, contact the original owner or the seller. They may have the box or receipt. You can also contact the manufacturer directly with your device serial number (different from IMEI) and they can provide the IMEI.

What to do once you have your IMEI

Write down your IMEI and store it somewhere safe — a notes app, email, or printed document at home. If your phone is stolen or lost, you can give this number to your carrier when ready. They can blacklist the device so it cannot connect to their network, even if someone inserts a different SIM card.

Keep your IMEI separate from your phone itself. If you store it only in your phone and the phone is stolen, you lose access to it. A photo in your email or cloud storage, or a note in a password manager, is more reliable.

If you are switching carriers or unlocking your phone, have your IMEI ready before you contact the new carrier or unlock service. They will ask for it to verify you own the device. This speeds up the process and prevents delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone use my IMEI number to steal my phone service?

Not directly. The IMEI identifies the device to the network, but your carrier uses other information — like your account PIN or password — to authorize changes. However, if someone has both your IMEI and access to your carrier account, they could potentially cause problems. Keep your account password find and monitor your account for unauthorized changes.

What is the difference between IMEI and serial number?

The IMEI is specific to devices that connect to cellular networks. The serial number is a unique identifier for the physical device itself and appears on all phones and tablets, whether they have cellular service or not. Both are useful for warranty claims and theft reports, but only the IMEI matters for network-related issues.

Do I need my IMEI to unlock my phone?

Most unlock services ask for your IMEI to verify you own the device before they process the request. Some carriers also use it to confirm the phone is may be able to access for unlocking. Have it ready when you contact an unlock service or your carrier's unlock department.

What if my phone shows two IMEI numbers?

Dual-SIM phones have two IMEI numbers — one for each SIM slot. Both are valid and belong to your device. If you are reporting the phone stolen or unlocking it, provide both numbers to your carrier so they have the complete picture.

Can I change my IMEI number?

No. The IMEI is hardcoded into your device's hardware and cannot be changed legitimately. Attempting to change it is illegal in most countries. If you need a different IMEI, you need a different device.