Where to find your IMEI number on any phone

Your IMEI number is a 15-digit code unique to your phone. It identifies your specific device to cellular networks, much like a serial number. You can find it in three places: printed inside your phone, displayed in your settings, or by dialing a code.

The fastest method depends on your phone's condition. If your phone powers on and you can access settings, the quickest route is usually the settings menu. If your phone is damaged or won't turn on, you can check the physical label or use a dialing code that works on most phones.

Key Takeaways

  • Your IMEI number is a 15-digit code printed on a label inside your phone, visible in your settings menu, or accessible by dialing *#06# on any phone that can make calls.
  • On Android, go to Settings > About Phone > IMEI Information or Status to see your number without opening the phone.
  • On iPhone, go to Settings > General > About and scroll to find IMEI listed as a single number or two numbers if you have dual SIM.
  • The physical label is usually under the battery on older phones or on the SIM tray on newer models, and it also appears on your original phone box and receipt.
  • You need your IMEI when reporting a phone stolen, unlocking a device, checking warranty status, or troubleshooting network problems with your carrier.

Finding IMEI on Android phones

On most Android phones, open Settings and look for an About Phone or Device Information section. The exact path varies by manufacturer: Samsung uses Settings > About Phone > Status, while Google Pixel uses Settings > About Phone > Device Information. Scroll down until you see IMEI or IMEI 1 and IMEI 2 if your phone has two SIM slots.

If you cannot find it in settings, dial *#06# on your phone's keypad. A popup will appear showing your IMEI number when ready. This code works on nearly every Android phone, even if the phone is locked or has no SIM card inserted. Write down all 15 digits carefully — a single wrong number will not match your device.

Finding IMEI on iPhones

On any iPhone, go to Settings > General > About. Scroll down the list until you see IMEI. On newer iPhones with dual SIM capability, you will see two IMEI numbers listed separately — one for each SIM slot. Write down the correct number for the SIM you are using, or note both if you need them.

If your iPhone is damaged and you cannot access settings, the IMEI also appears on the SIM tray. Remove the SIM tray using the small ejector tool that came with your phone, and look at the label printed on the tray itself. The number will be printed there along with other device information.

Checking the physical label inside your phone

On older phones with removable batteries, the IMEI is printed on a label under the battery. Power off your phone completely, remove the back cover if it is removable, and take out the battery. The label will be on the inside of the phone body or on the battery itself. This method works even if your phone will not turn on.

On newer phones without removable batteries, the IMEI is printed on the SIM tray. Use the small metal ejector tool that came with your phone to pop out the SIM tray from the side of the device. The label on the tray shows your IMEI along with other information. If you have lost the ejector tool, a straightened paperclip works in most cases.

Finding IMEI on your original documents

Your IMEI also appears on paperwork you received when you bought the phone. Check your original receipt from the carrier or retailer — the IMEI is usually printed near the top or bottom. The original phone box also has the IMEI printed on a label on the back or side.

If you bought the phone from a carrier like Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile, you can also log into your account online or call customer service. They have your IMEI on file and can read it to you over the phone. This is useful if you have lost the physical phone and need the number for insurance or theft reporting.

Why you need your IMEI number

Your IMEI serves several practical purposes. If your phone is stolen, you can give the number to your carrier and police so the device can be blocked from connecting to any network. Insurance companies also ask for the IMEI when processing a claim for a lost or damaged phone.

When you switch carriers or want to unlock your phone to use with a different network, the carrier or unlocking service will ask for your IMEI to verify you own the device. If you are having network problems — dropped calls, no signal, or data issues — your carrier may ask for your IMEI to check whether the phone is properly registered on their network. Some warranty services also use the IMEI to confirm your phone is still under coverage.

What to do if you cannot find your IMEI

If your phone will not turn on and you cannot access the physical label, contact your carrier directly. Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and other carriers can look up your IMEI using your account information, phone number, or SIM card number. Have your account details ready when you call.

If you bought the phone from a retailer like Best Buy or Amazon, contact them with your receipt or order number. They may have the IMEI recorded in their system. For older phones where the label has worn away or become unreadable, a carrier representative is your most reliable option — they have the number in their database and can provide it when ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my IMEI number the same as my phone's serial number?

No. Your IMEI identifies your phone to cellular networks, while your serial number is a separate code used for warranty and repair purposes. Both appear on your phone's label and in settings, but they are different numbers. Your carrier uses the IMEI; repair shops and Apple or Samsung support use the serial number.

Can someone use my IMEI number to track my phone?

Your IMEI alone cannot be used to track your location. However, if someone has your IMEI and your phone is on and connected to a network, your carrier could theoretically locate it — but only law enforcement with a warrant can compel a carrier to do this. For theft, report the IMEI to your carrier so they block the device from their network.

What if my phone has two IMEI numbers?

Dual SIM phones have two IMEI numbers, one for each SIM slot. Each number identifies that phone's connection to a different network. When you need to provide your IMEI to a carrier or service, give them the number for the SIM slot you are using with them. Both numbers are equally valid identifiers for your device.

Do I need my IMEI to unlock my phone?

Yes. When you request an unlock from your carrier or a third-party unlocking service, they will ask for your IMEI to verify you own the device and that it is may be able to access for unlocking. This protects against theft — a stolen phone cannot be unlocked without the owner's permission.

Can I change my IMEI number?

No. Your IMEI is hardcoded into your phone's hardware and cannot be changed through settings or software. Attempting to change it is illegal in most countries and will brick your phone. Your IMEI is permanent for the life of the device.