The fastest way to find your iPhone's serial number

Your iPhone's serial number is a unique identifier printed on the device itself and stored in its system settings. The quickest way to find it is to open Settings, tap General, then tap About. Scroll down until you see the line labeled Serial Number — that 12-character code is what you need.

If your iPhone won't turn on or you can't access Settings, you can find the serial number printed on the back of the device, usually near the bottom in small text. On newer iPhones, it may also be printed inside the SIM tray slot. The number will look like a mix of letters and numbers, such as F2LLM0D0Q05H.

Key Takeaways

  • Your serial number appears in Settings > General > About, and you can screenshot it or write it down from there.
  • The serial number is also printed on the physical back of your iPhone, usually in small text near the bottom.
  • You need the serial number to register your device with Apple, file a warranty claim, or report a lost or stolen phone.
  • Each iPhone has only one serial number, and it never changes during the device's lifetime.

Why you need your iPhone's serial number

The serial number is how Apple and carriers identify your specific device. If your iPhone is stolen or lost, you can give the serial number to law enforcement and your carrier so they can block the device from being used on their network. Apple also uses it to verify warranty coverage — if you need a repair or replacement, they will ask for the serial number to confirm you own the device and that it is still under coverage.

You may also need the serial number when selling your iPhone, trading it in, or transferring it to another person. Buyers and trade-in services use it to check whether the device has been reported as lost or stolen, and whether there are any outstanding financial obligations tied to it.

Finding the serial number on the physical device

If you prefer not to use Settings, or if your iPhone is powered off, you can read the serial number directly from the device. On the back of your iPhone, look near the bottom for small printed text. The serial number will be listed there along with other information like the model number and regulatory markings.

On iPhones with a removable SIM tray, you can also eject the tray using a SIM ejector tool (or a straightened paperclip) and look inside the slot — the serial number is sometimes printed there as well. This method works even if the phone is completely dead and cannot be charged.

Checking your serial number in other Apple services

If you have registered your iPhone with Apple, you can also find the serial number by signing into your Apple ID account on apple.com. Go to Account Settings, then Devices, and select your iPhone from the list. The serial number will be displayed on that device's information page.

If you have AppleCare coverage, you can log into your AppleCare account and view the serial number there as well. This is useful if you need to verify coverage details or file a claim, since the serial number is already linked to your coverage plan.

What to do if you can't find the serial number

If the text on the back of your iPhone is worn away or illegible, or if you cannot access Settings, contact Apple Support directly. You can reach them through the Apple Support app, by calling 1-800-MY-APPLE, or by visiting an Apple Store. They can look up your device using your phone number, email address, or Apple ID, and they will provide the serial number for you.

If your iPhone was purchased through a carrier like Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile, you can also contact them directly. They have records of every device on their network and can retrieve the serial number using your account information.

Keeping your serial number safe

Write down or screenshot your iPhone's serial number and store it somewhere find — a notes app, a password manager, or a physical document in a drawer. If your phone is lost or stolen, you will need this number when ready, and you may not have access to the device itself to look it up.

Do not share your serial number publicly or with people you do not trust. While the serial number alone cannot unlock your phone or access your data, it can be used to report a device as lost or stolen, and someone with bad intentions could use it to file a false claim.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the serial number the same as the IMEI number?

No. The serial number is a unique identifier for your physical iPhone, while the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a separate number used by cellular networks to identify your device on their network. You can find the IMEI in Settings > General > About, listed separately below the serial number.

Can I find the serial number if my iPhone is locked?

Yes. You can read the serial number from the back of the device without unlocking it, or you can eject the SIM tray and look inside. If you forgot your passcode, you can still access this information without entering it.

What if the serial number on the back doesn't match the one in Settings?

This is extremely rare and usually indicates a hardware problem or a counterfeit device. Contact Apple Support when ready with both numbers so they can investigate. Do not attempt to repair or modify the device yourself.

Do I need the serial number to set up a new iPhone?

No. You can set up a new iPhone using just your Apple ID and password. However, having the serial number of your old device on hand makes it easier to transfer data and verify that you own both devices if you are trading in the old one.