What an IMEI is and why you need it

Your IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a 15-digit number that uniquely identifies your phone or tablet to cellular networks. It's different from your phone number or SIM card — the IMEI stays with the device itself, even if you change carriers or remove the SIM.

You'll need your IMEI if your phone is stolen and you want to report it to your carrier, if you're switching carriers and they ask for device verification, or if you're selling the phone and the buyer wants proof it's not blacklisted. Some carriers also ask for it when troubleshooting network problems.

The IMEI is printed on your device and stored in its software, so there are multiple ways to find it depending on what you have access to.

Key Takeaways

  • Your IMEI is a 15-digit number unique to your phone or tablet that identifies it to cellular networks, separate from your phone number or SIM card.
  • You can find your IMEI by dialing *#06# on any phone, checking the device settings, looking at the original box, or examining the physical label under the battery.
  • If your phone is locked or won't power on, the IMEI printed on the back or inside the device is still readable and valid.
  • Write down your IMEI and keep it somewhere safe in case you need to report your phone lost or stolen to your carrier.

Dial the IMEI code on any phone

The fastest way to find your IMEI works on almost every phone: open the Phone app, go to the dial pad, and type *#06# then press call. Your IMEI will appear on the screen when ready — you don't need to actually call anyone.

This method works whether your phone is locked or unlocked, on any carrier, and on both Android and iPhone. If you have a phone with a dual SIM (two SIM slots), this code will show both IMEIs, labeled as IMEI 1 and IMEI 2.

Write the number down or take a screenshot before you close the screen. If the code doesn't work, your phone may be very old or heavily customized, but you have other options.

Check your phone's settings

On Android, go to Settings, then scroll down and tap About Phone. Look for a field labeled IMEI, IMEI 1, or Device ID — the exact name varies by manufacturer. Some phones put it under Settings > System > About Phone instead. Write down the 15-digit number.

On iPhone, go to Settings > General > About. Scroll down until you see IMEI. Tap it to copy the number to your clipboard, or write it down from the screen.

If you can't find it in the first location you try, search the Settings app for "IMEI" — most phones have a search function that will take you directly to the right page.

Look at the device itself or its packaging

Your IMEI is printed on a label somewhere on the physical phone. On most Android phones, it's on a sticker under the battery (if the battery is removable) or on a label inside the back cover. On iPhones, it's printed on the back of the phone near the bottom, or on the SIM tray if you remove it.

If you still have the original box your phone came in, the IMEI is usually printed on a label on the back or inside. This is useful if your phone won't turn on or is too damaged to read the label on the device itself.

The printed IMEI is just as valid as the one in your settings — it's the same number, and carriers will accept it if you need to report your phone or verify ownership.

Find the IMEI on your SIM tray

Remove your SIM tray using the small ejector tool that came with your phone (or a straightened paperclip). On many phones, the IMEI is printed on the tray itself or on the label visible when the tray is out.

This method works on most iPhones and many Android phones. If you don't see it on the tray, check the slot itself — sometimes the number is printed on the inside edge of the phone where the tray sits.

What to do if you can't find your IMEI

If your phone won't power on, is locked with a passcode you don't know, or is too damaged to read, contact your carrier directly. Give them your phone number or account number, and they can look up your IMEI in their system — they have a record of every device on your account.

If you're buying a used phone and the seller can't provide the IMEI, ask them to dial *#06# in front of you, or ask the carrier to verify it before you complete the purchase. Never buy a phone without confirming the IMEI, because you won't be able to prove ownership if there's a dispute later.

Keep your IMEI safe

Write your IMEI down and store it somewhere separate from your phone — a notebook, a password manager, or an email to yourself. If your phone is stolen, you'll have the number ready to give to your carrier, and they can blacklist it so no one else can use it on their network.

Some carriers also ask for your IMEI when you report a phone lost or stolen, so having it written down saves time. You don't need to keep it secret the way you would a password — the IMEI is not sensitive information — but having it recorded means you're prepared if something happens to your device.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the IMEI the same as my phone number?

No. Your phone number is assigned by your carrier and can change if you switch carriers or get a new SIM card. Your IMEI is a permanent identifier for the physical device itself and never changes, even if you use different phone numbers or carriers.

Can someone use my IMEI to track my phone?

Not with just the IMEI alone. Your carrier can use it to locate your phone if you report it stolen, but a random person with your IMEI number cannot track you. The IMEI is not sensitive information in the way a password or PIN is.

What if my phone has two IMEI numbers?

Dual-SIM phones have two IMEI numbers because they can connect to two cellular networks at the same time. When you dial *#06#, both will appear on your screen labeled IMEI 1 and IMEI 2. If you need to report the phone, give your carrier both numbers.

Do tablets have an IMEI?

Only tablets with cellular service (Wi-Fi + Cellular models) have an IMEI. Wi-Fi-only tablets do not. If your tablet has a SIM slot, you can find the IMEI by dialing *#06# or checking Settings > About Tablet, the same way you would on a phone.

Can I change my IMEI?

No, and attempting to do so is illegal in most countries. Your IMEI is hardcoded into your phone's hardware and cannot be changed through normal means. If someone tells you they can change your IMEI, they are either scamming you or offering an illegal service.