Where to find your IMEI number on an iPhone

Your iPhone's IMEI number is a 15-digit code that identifies your specific device to cellular networks. You can find it in three places: in the Settings app under General > About, by dialing *#06# on the phone itself, or printed on the physical SIM card tray. The Settings method works on every iPhone model and takes about 30 seconds.

The fastest route is Settings. Open Settings, tap General, scroll down and tap About, then look for the line labeled "IMEI". Write it down or take a screenshot — you'll need this number if your phone is lost, stolen, or if you're switching carriers and need to verify the device on your account.

If you can't access Settings because the phone won't turn on or the screen is broken, try dialing *#06# from the phone's keypad. The IMEI will appear on the screen automatically. This works even if the phone has no service, as long as it powers on.

Key Takeaways

  • Your IMEI is a 15-digit number unique to your iPhone that identifies it to cellular networks and is required by carriers and insurance companies.
  • The easiest way to find it is Settings > General > About, where it appears as "IMEI" in a single line.
  • Dialing *#06# from the phone's keypad displays the IMEI on screen without needing Settings access.
  • Write down or screenshot your IMEI and store it somewhere safe in case your phone is lost or stolen.

Finding your IMEI through the physical SIM tray

If your iPhone has a physical SIM card, the IMEI is also printed on the SIM tray itself — the small metal or plastic slot that holds the card. To access it, use the SIM ejector tool that came with your iPhone (a thin metal pin) or a straightened paperclip. Insert it into the small hole next to the SIM tray on the side of the phone and gently push until the tray pops out.

Look at the tray itself, not the SIM card. The IMEI will be printed on the metal or plastic surface. This method is useful if your phone is powered off or the screen is damaged, though it requires physical access to the device. Newer iPhones with eSIM only (no physical SIM slot) won't have this option, so use Settings or the *#06# method instead.

What your IMEI number is used for

Carriers use your IMEI to register your phone on their network and to block stolen devices. If your iPhone is lost or stolen, you can contact your carrier and provide the IMEI so they can blacklist it — this prevents anyone else from using it on their network, even with a different SIM card. Insurance companies also ask for the IMEI when you file a claim for a lost or damaged phone.

The IMEI is also required when switching carriers or unlocking your phone. Some carriers need it to confirm the device is compatible with their network before you transfer service. If you're selling your iPhone, the buyer may ask for the IMEI to verify the phone's history and confirm it hasn't been reported as stolen.

Difference between IMEI and other iPhone identifiers

Your iPhone has several different identification numbers, and it's straightforward to confuse them. The IMEI identifies the phone itself to cellular networks. The ICCID (printed on your SIM card or visible in Settings under General > About) identifies your SIM card and your account with the carrier. The Serial Number (also in Settings > General > About) is what Apple uses to track your device for warranty and repair purposes.

For most situations — reporting a lost phone, switching carriers, or checking if a phone is blacklisted — you need the IMEI. The Serial Number matters when contacting Apple Support or taking your phone to an Apple Store for repair. The ICCID is only relevant if you're switching SIM cards or dealing with carrier account issues. All three appear in the same Settings menu, so you can find them all at once if needed.

What to do if you can't find your IMEI

If your iPhone won't turn on and you don't have the SIM tray accessible, contact your carrier directly. They can look up your IMEI using your phone number and account information — they have a record of every device registered to your account. This is the fastest option if your phone is lost or stolen and you need to report it when ready.

If you're trying to find the IMEI of a phone you no longer have, check any paperwork from when you bought it. Receipts, warranty cards, or the original box sometimes list the IMEI. Your carrier's website or app may also show it under your account details or device information. Apple can also provide it if you contact them with proof of purchase, though this takes longer than calling your carrier.

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 lost or stolen, you'll need this number when ready, and you won't have access to the phone itself to look it up. Many people take a screenshot of their Settings > About page and save it to cloud storage for this reason.

Don't share your IMEI publicly or with anyone you don't trust. While the IMEI alone can't be used to access your accounts or data, it can be used to blacklist your phone or to claim it as their own if they have other information about you. Treat it like you would a serial number — useful to have documented, but not something to post online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone use my iPhone if they have the IMEI number?

No. The IMEI alone doesn't unlock your phone or access your data. However, someone with your IMEI could potentially contact a carrier and claim the phone as theirs, so keep it private. If your phone is lost or stolen, contact your carrier when ready to blacklist the IMEI so no one can use it on any network.

Is the IMEI the same as the serial number?

No. The IMEI identifies your phone to cellular networks, while the Serial Number is what Apple uses for warranty and repairs. Both appear in Settings > General > About. You need the IMEI for carrier issues and the Serial Number for Apple Support.

What if my iPhone has an eSIM instead of a physical SIM?

The IMEI is the same regardless of whether you use a physical SIM or eSIM. Find it in Settings > General > About or by dialing *#06#. You won't be able to see it on a SIM tray because there is no physical tray, but the number is still there and works the same way.

Do I need my IMEI to unlock my iPhone?

No. Unlocking your iPhone (removing carrier restrictions) requires your Apple ID and password, not your IMEI. Your carrier may ask for the IMEI to confirm you own the device before they unlock it, but the unlock itself is done through Apple's system.

Can I find someone else's IMEI without their phone?

Not without their permission or cooperation. The IMEI is stored on the device itself and in carrier records. Only the phone owner, their carrier, or Apple can access it. If you need to verify a phone's IMEI before buying it used, ask the seller to show you the Settings screen or dial *#06# in front of you.