Where to find your iPhone's IMEI

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 four places without needing any tools or apps: on the physical SIM tray, in the Settings app, on your original box, or by dialing a code.

The easiest method is to open Settings, tap General, then About, and scroll down to find the IMEI listed there. If you want to check it without unlocking your phone, eject the SIM tray on the side of your iPhone — the IMEI is printed on the tray itself. On the original box your iPhone came in, the IMEI appears on a label on the back.

You can also dial *#06# on any iPhone and the IMEI will display on your screen when ready. This works even if you don't have cellular service, though it requires the phone to be powered on.

Key Takeaways

  • Your IMEI is a 15-digit number printed on your SIM tray, visible in Settings under General > About, and displayed when you dial *#06#.
  • The IMEI identifies your specific iPhone to cellular networks and is useful for reporting a lost or stolen phone to your carrier.
  • You do not need to remove the SIM card to see the IMEI — it is printed on the tray itself.
  • The original box your iPhone came in also has the IMEI printed on the back label if you need to reference it later.

Why you might need your IMEI

Your IMEI becomes important when you need to report your phone to your carrier or law enforcement. If your iPhone is lost or stolen, providing the IMEI to your cellular provider (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, or another carrier) allows them to blacklist the device so it cannot be used on any network, even with a different SIM card.

Insurance companies sometimes ask for the IMEI when you file a claim for a damaged or missing phone. If you are selling your iPhone, a buyer may ask for the IMEI to verify the phone is not reported as stolen or blacklisted. Some repair shops also request it to confirm they are working on the correct device.

Checking the IMEI on your SIM tray

The SIM tray is the small slot on the side of your iPhone. On most models, it is on the right edge; on some older iPhones, it may be on the left. You can eject the tray using the small metal tool that came with your iPhone, or by straightening a paperclip and inserting it into the tiny hole next to the slot.

Once the tray pops out, look at the tray itself — not the SIM card. The IMEI is printed directly on the plastic or metal tray in small text. This method works even if your phone is powered off or locked, making it useful if you cannot access Settings.

Finding your IMEI in Settings

Open the Settings app on your iPhone and navigate to General. Scroll down and tap About. In the About screen, you will see several pieces of information about your phone, including the model name, storage capacity, and software version. Scroll down further until you see the IMEI listed.

This is the most straightforward method if your phone is unlocked and powered on. The IMEI appears as a single 15-digit number with no spaces or dashes. If you need to copy it, press and hold on the IMEI number and select Copy from the menu that appears.

Using the dial code to display your IMEI

Open the Phone app and tap the keypad. Dial *#06# and press the call button. Your IMEI will appear on the screen within a few seconds. This method works on any iPhone with cellular capability, regardless of whether you have an active plan or SIM card inserted.

The dial code method is particularly useful if your phone is locked and you cannot access Settings, or if you want to check the IMEI without navigating through menus. The number will remain on your screen until you dismiss it by pressing the back arrow or hanging up.

What to do if you cannot find your IMEI

If your iPhone screen is cracked or the phone will not power on, checking the SIM tray is your best option since it does not require the phone to be functional. If the SIM tray is also damaged or missing, the IMEI on your original box is your next resource — keep the box in a safe place for this reason.

If you have already discarded the box and cannot access the phone, contact your cellular carrier directly. They can look up your IMEI using your phone number and account information. You will need to verify your identity with them, but they can provide the number over the phone.

Protecting your IMEI information

Your IMEI is not a secret like a password, but you should not share it casually. Only provide it to your carrier, insurance company, law enforcement, or a buyer you trust. Scammers occasionally ask for IMEIs under false pretenses, so be cautious if someone you do not know requests it.

If your phone is lost or stolen, contact your carrier as soon as possible with the IMEI so they can blacklist it. This prevents someone else from using your phone on a cellular network. You should also report the loss to local police if you believe the phone was stolen rather than straightforward misplaced.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone use my iPhone if they have the IMEI?

No. The IMEI alone does not unlock your phone or grant access to your data. However, if someone has both your IMEI and your SIM card, they could potentially use the phone on a cellular network. This is why blacklisting the IMEI with your carrier is important if your phone is stolen.

Is the IMEI the same as the serial number?

No. Your iPhone has both an IMEI and a separate serial number. The IMEI is specific to the cellular radio and is used by networks. The serial number identifies the physical device and is used by Apple for warranty and repair purposes. Both appear in Settings under General > About.

What if my iPhone shows two IMEI numbers?

iPhones with dual SIM capability (physical SIM plus eSIM, or two eSIMs) display two IMEI numbers — one for each SIM slot. This is normal and expected. Each IMEI corresponds to one of your active or inactive SIM cards.

Do I need my IMEI to set up a new iPhone?

No. When you set up a new iPhone, you sign in with your Apple ID and restore from a backup or set up as new. Your carrier activates the phone using the SIM card you insert, not the IMEI. However, your carrier may ask for the IMEI if you are switching phones on an existing plan.