What an IMEI number is and why you need it

Your IMEI number is a 15-digit code unique to your phone. It stands for International Mobile Equipment Identity. Think of it as your phone's serial number — no two phones have the same IMEI, even if they are the same model and color.

You need this number when you report a phone stolen, when you switch carriers, when you file a warranty claim, or when you want to check whether a used phone is legitimate before you buy it. Some carriers also use it to unlock your phone or to confirm you own the device when you call customer support.

The IMEI is different from your phone number, your SIM card number, or your device serial number — though they are often confused. Your phone number changes if you switch carriers; your IMEI never does.

Key Takeaways

  • Your IMEI is a 15-digit number unique to your phone that you can find by dialing *#06# on almost any phone.
  • On iPhones, the IMEI appears in Settings under General, then About, listed as "IMEI".
  • On Android phones, go to Settings, then About Phone, then look for "IMEI" or "IMEI 1" and "IMEI 2" if your phone has two SIM slots.
  • You can also find your IMEI on your phone's original box, on your carrier's account page, or by contacting your carrier directly.
  • Write down your IMEI and store it somewhere safe in case you need it for theft reports or warranty claims.

Finding your IMEI on an iPhone

The fastest way on an iPhone is to open Settings, then tap General, then tap About. Scroll down until you see the line labeled IMEI. The 15-digit number next to it is your IMEI. You can tap it to copy it to your clipboard.

If you do not have access to your phone right now, you can find the IMEI on your original iPhone box. Look on the back of the box — it is usually printed near the barcode. You can also log into your Apple ID account on iCloud.com, go to Find My, select your device, and the IMEI will appear in the device details.

Finding your IMEI on an Android phone

Open Settings and scroll down to find About Phone (the exact name varies by manufacturer — Samsung calls it "About Device", others call it "Phone Information"). Tap it, then look for a line labeled IMEI or IMEI 1.

If your phone has two SIM card slots, you will see both IMEI 1 and IMEI 2 listed separately. Each SIM slot has its own IMEI. Write down the one that matches the SIM card you are using, or both if you use both slots regularly.

Some Android phones bury this information deeper. If you cannot find it in About Phone, try looking under Settings > System > About Phone, or search the Settings app directly for "IMEI".

Using the dial code to find your IMEI

On almost any phone — iPhone or Android — you can dial *#06# and your IMEI will appear on the screen automatically. You do not have to press call; the number just displays. This works even if your phone is locked, as long as you can access the dial pad.

This method is useful if your phone is acting up and you cannot navigate to Settings, or if you are checking a used phone before you buy it. Just ask the seller to dial the code and show you the screen. The IMEI that appears should match any paperwork they give you.

On some older or less common phones, this code may not work. If nothing happens, use the Settings method instead.

Finding your IMEI without the phone

If you have lost your phone or it will not turn on, you can still find the IMEI. Check your original phone box — the IMEI is printed on the back or on a label inside. If you no longer have the box, log into your carrier's website or app and look for your device information or account details. Most carriers display the IMEI there.

You can also call your carrier's customer support line. Have your account number or phone number ready, and they can look up your IMEI in their system. This usually takes a few minutes but requires you to verify your identity first.

If you bought the phone from a retailer like Best Buy or Walmart, contact them with your receipt. They may have the IMEI on file from the original sale.

What to do once you have your IMEI

Write your IMEI down and store it somewhere safe — a notes app on your computer, a password manager, or a physical notebook. If your phone is stolen, you will need this number to report it to your carrier and to law enforcement. Many carriers can blacklist a stolen phone using the IMEI, which prevents anyone else from using it on their network.

If you are selling a used phone, the buyer may ask for the IMEI to verify the phone is not stolen or blacklisted. You can share it without worry — the IMEI is not sensitive information like a password. If you are buying a used phone, ask the seller for the IMEI and check it against online databases that track blacklisted devices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my IMEI the same as my phone number?

No. Your phone number is assigned by your carrier and changes if you switch carriers or plans. Your IMEI is built into your phone hardware and never changes. You need both pieces of information for different purposes.

Can someone use my IMEI to track my phone?

The IMEI itself is not a tracking tool. It is a hardware identifier that carriers and law enforcement use to locate stolen phones, but a regular person cannot use an IMEI to track a phone's location. Sharing your IMEI is safe.

What if my phone shows two different IMEIs?

If your phone has two SIM card slots, it will have two IMEIs — one for each slot. This is normal. Each IMEI corresponds to one SIM card. If you only use one SIM, you only need to remember that IMEI.

Can I change my IMEI number?

No. The IMEI is programmed into your phone's hardware at the factory and cannot be changed through normal settings. Attempting to change it is illegal in most countries and will void your warranty.

Do I need my IMEI to switch carriers?

You may need it. Some carriers ask for the IMEI when you bring a phone from another carrier, especially if you want to check whether the phone is compatible with their network. It is always good to have it ready when you contact a new carrier.