Your iPhone's IMEI is in Settings, on the box, or by dialing a code

The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a 15-digit number that identifies your specific iPhone to cellular networks. You need it to report a stolen phone, switch carriers, unlock your device, or check warranty status. Apple puts this number in multiple places so you can find it even if your phone won't turn on.

The fastest way is through Settings on a working iPhone. Open Settings, tap General, then About, and scroll to IMEI. If your phone is broken or won't power on, check the original box, the SIM tray, or call your carrier — they have it on file.

Key Takeaways

  • Your IMEI appears in Settings under General > About on any working iPhone.
  • The original iPhone box prints the IMEI on the back label, even if you no longer have the phone.
  • Ejecting the SIM tray reveals the IMEI printed on the tray itself or the slot.
  • Your carrier stores your IMEI and can read it to you over the phone if your device is lost or damaged.
  • Dialing *#06# on an iPhone displays the IMEI on screen, though this works less reliably than Settings.

Finding IMEI in iPhone Settings

This is the most reliable method if your phone powers on and responds normally. Unlock your iPhone and open the Settings app (the gray gear icon on your home screen). Tap General, then scroll down and tap About. The IMEI appears as a 15-digit number in the list — it is labeled "IMEI".

Write down all 15 digits carefully. A single wrong digit makes the number useless for carrier unlocking or theft reporting. If you need to send the number to someone, take a screenshot by pressing the side button and volume-up button at the same time, then release both.

Checking the Original iPhone Box

If you kept the box your iPhone came in, the IMEI is printed on the back label. Look for a white or light-colored label on the outside back of the box. The label lists the model, serial number, and IMEI. The IMEI is the longest number on that label and starts with a digit like 3, 8, or 9.

This method works even if your phone is lost, stolen, or no longer functional. The box label does not change, and the number printed there matches the IMEI inside your phone. Keep your box in a safe place if you think you might need this information later.

Removing the SIM Tray to Find IMEI

Your iPhone has a small tray that holds the SIM card (the chip your carrier uses to identify you on their network). The IMEI is often printed on the tray itself or on the metal slot inside the phone. To access it, use the SIM eject tool that came with your iPhone — a small metal pin — or a straightened paperclip.

Locate the small hole on the side of your iPhone (the exact location depends on your model). Insert the pin straight in until the tray pops out. Look at both sides of the tray and inside the slot for a printed IMEI. Not all iPhone models print the IMEI here, but many do. If you do not see it, try one of the other methods.

Asking Your Carrier for Your IMEI

Your cellular carrier (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, or another company) has your IMEI on file. Call their customer service number, which is usually on your bill or on the back of your SIM card. Tell them you need your IMEI for your iPhone. They will ask you to verify your account — usually by providing your phone number or account number — then read the number to you.

This method works whether your phone is working, broken, lost, or stolen. Carriers keep this information for years, even after you stop service with them. If you switched carriers, your old carrier still has the record. Write down the number they give you and ask them to spell it out if the connection is unclear.

Using the Dial Code *#06#

On some iPhones, you can dial *#06# to display the IMEI on screen. Open the Phone app, tap the keypad, and type the code. The IMEI should appear at the top of the screen. This method is less reliable than Settings because some iPhone models or iOS versions do not support it, but it is worth trying if you need a quick answer.

If nothing happens after you dial the code, do not worry — your phone is not broken. straightforward use one of the other methods instead. This code works on many Android phones and older phones, but Apple does not may provide it on every iPhone model.

What to Do With Your IMEI Once You Have It

Store your IMEI in a safe place separate from your phone — write it down in a notebook, email it to yourself, or save it in a password manager. If your iPhone is stolen, you can give the IMEI to police and your carrier so they can block the phone from connecting to any network. If you want to unlock your iPhone to use with a different carrier, you will need the IMEI to prove ownership.

Some repair shops ask for your IMEI before servicing your phone to confirm you own it. Apple also uses the IMEI to check warranty coverage and service history. Having this number readily available saves time if you ever need to prove your phone's identity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone use my IMEI to steal my phone or access my data?

The IMEI alone cannot unlock your phone or access your data — it only identifies the device to the cellular network. However, if someone has both your IMEI and your carrier account information, they might be able to switch service to a different phone. Keep your IMEI private the same way you would keep your phone number private, but do not panic if someone sees it.

Is the IMEI the same as the serial number?

No. The serial number is a different 11-character code that also identifies your iPhone, but it is used for warranty and repair purposes. The IMEI is specifically for cellular networks. Both appear in Settings under General > About, and both are printed on your original box.

What if the IMEI in Settings does not match the one on my box?

This usually means the phone in the box is not the phone you are holding — perhaps the box belonged to a different device, or the phone was replaced under warranty. Contact Apple Support or your carrier with the IMEI from Settings, since that is the number that matters for your current device.

Do I need my IMEI to switch to a different carrier?

Your carrier may ask for it during the unlock process, but many carriers can look it up using your phone number instead. If they ask for the IMEI, use the Settings method to find it. Some carriers require the IMEI in writing before they will unlock your phone.

Can I find my IMEI if my iPhone is completely dead and will not charge?

Yes. Check the original box, call your carrier, or use the SIM tray method if you can access it without powering on the phone. If none of those work, visit an Apple Store or authorized repair shop with proof of purchase — they can look up your IMEI using your account information.