The quickest way to find your IMEI

Your iPhone's IMEI number is a 15-digit code that identifies your specific device to mobile carriers and repair services. The fastest way to find it is to open Settings, tap General, then About — scroll down and you will see IMEI listed there. This method works on every iPhone model and takes about 10 seconds.

If you need the number right now and your phone is powered on and working, this is the only method you need. The other ways exist because your phone might be broken, lost, or you might need the number before you can unlock it.

Key Takeaways

  • Your IMEI appears in Settings > General > About on any working iPhone, and this is the fastest way to find it.
  • If your phone is off or damaged, you can find the IMEI on the original box, your carrier's account page, or by dialing *#06# on any phone.
  • The IMEI is different from your phone number — it identifies the device itself, not your service plan.
  • You may need your IMEI to report a lost phone to your carrier, unlock a device, or verify warranty coverage with Apple.

Finding your IMEI in Settings on a working iPhone

Open the Settings app on your iPhone. Tap General, then tap About. Scroll down the list until you see the field labeled IMEI — the 15-digit number next to it is what you need. You can tap and hold the number to copy it, then paste it into an email or document.

This works the same way on iPhone 6 and newer. The location in Settings has not changed across iOS versions, so if you can reach the About screen, you can find your IMEI.

Finding your IMEI on the original box or paperwork

If your iPhone is off, damaged, or you cannot access Settings, check the original box it came in. Apple prints the IMEI on a label on the back of the box, usually near the barcode. If you still have the receipt or paperwork from purchase, the IMEI may also appear there.

This method only works if you kept the box. If you did not, move to the next option.

Finding your IMEI through your carrier's account

Log into your carrier's website or app — Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, or whoever provides your service. Go to your account settings or device information section. Your carrier stores the IMEI for every phone on your plan and displays it in your account details.

You do not need your phone to be working to use this method. If you have forgotten your carrier password, you can call their customer service number (usually on your bill) and ask them to read your IMEI to you over the phone.

Using the dial code to find your IMEI

On any phone — not just your iPhone — you can dial *#06# and the IMEI will appear on the screen automatically. This works on iPhones, Android phones, and older phones. You do not need to press call; the number appears as soon as you finish typing the code.

This method is useful if your iPhone is off but you have access to another phone. It also works if your iPhone is locked and you cannot reach Settings.

What to do once you have your IMEI

Write down or save your IMEI somewhere safe — a notes app, email, or document on your computer. You will need it if you report your phone lost or stolen to your carrier, if you need to unlock a device, or if you contact Apple Support about warranty coverage or repairs.

Your IMEI is not sensitive information in the way a password is, but it is specific to your device. Do not share it with anyone unless you are working with your carrier or Apple on a legitimate support issue.

The difference between IMEI, ICCID, and phone number

Your iPhone has three different numbers that are straightforward to confuse. Your phone number is what people call to reach you — it changes if you switch carriers or get a new SIM card. Your IMEI is permanently tied to the physical device itself and never changes. Your ICCID is the number on your SIM card and changes when you get a new SIM.

When a carrier asks for your IMEI, they want to identify the device. When they ask for your phone number, they want to identify your account. When Apple asks for your IMEI, they are checking what device you own. All three numbers appear in Settings > General > About if you need to find them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I find my IMEI if my iPhone is completely dead?

Yes. Check the original box, call your carrier and ask them to read it from your account, or use the *#06# dial code on another phone. You do not need your iPhone to be powered on to find this information.

Is my IMEI the same as my phone number?

No. Your phone number is tied to your service plan and changes if you switch carriers. Your IMEI is tied to the physical device and never changes. Both appear in Settings > General > About.

Why would I need my IMEI?

You need it to report a lost or stolen phone to your carrier, to unlock a device, to verify warranty coverage with Apple, or to provide proof of ownership in some situations. Carriers and Apple use it to identify your specific device.

Is it safe to share my IMEI?

Yes, with your carrier or Apple Support when you are working on a legitimate issue. Do not post it publicly online or share it with people you do not trust, but it is not a password or financial number.

Does every iPhone have an IMEI?

Yes. Every iPhone model from the iPhone 6 onward has an IMEI. Older models like the iPhone 5 and earlier also have IMEIs. If your device is an iPhone, it has an IMEI.