What an IMEI number is and why you need it

Your IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a 15-digit code unique to your phone. It's like a serial number for your device — no two phones have the same one. You'll need it if you're filing an insurance claim, reporting a stolen phone to your carrier, unlocking your device, or selling it to someone else.

The IMEI is built into your phone's hardware, so it stays the same no matter how many times you restart, factory reset, or change your SIM card. It's different from your phone number or SIM card number, both of which can change.

Key Takeaways

  • You can find your IMEI by dialing *#06# on any phone — the number appears on your screen in seconds.
  • On Android, go to Settings > About Phone > IMEI Information to see the number without dialing.
  • On iPhone, open Settings > General > About and scroll to find IMEI listed as "IMEI".
  • Your phone's original box, SIM card tray, or carrier account also displays the IMEI if you can't access the phone itself.
  • Write down or screenshot your IMEI and store it somewhere safe — you may need it months or years later.

The fastest method: dial *#06# on any phone

Open your phone's dialer (the app you use to make calls) and type *#06#, then press the call button. Your IMEI appears on the screen within a second. This works on nearly every phone — Android, iPhone, older models, new models — because it's a universal code built into phone hardware.

A popup or information screen will show your IMEI and sometimes your IMSI (a different number related to your SIM card). Write down or screenshot the 15-digit IMEI. If you see two IMEI numbers listed, your phone has two SIM slots — both numbers are valid IMEIs for your device.

This method works even if your phone is locked, has no SIM card, or won't turn on fully. It's the fastest way to get the number right now.

Finding your IMEI in Android settings

Open the Settings app and scroll down to find About Phone (sometimes called About Device). Tap it. On the next screen, look for a line labeled IMEI, IMEI 1, or IMEI 2. The 15-digit number next to it is your IMEI.

If you have two SIM slots, you'll see both IMEI 1 and IMEI 2. If you only see one, your phone has a single SIM slot. Some Android phones also list the IMEI under Status or Device Information instead of directly under About Phone — if you don't see it in the first place you look, check those sections.

This method requires your phone to be unlocked and powered on, but it's useful if you want to verify the number without using the dialer code.

Finding your IMEI on iPhone

Open Settings and tap General. Scroll down and tap About. On this screen, scroll down until you see a line labeled IMEI. The 15-digit number is your IMEI. On some iPhone models, you may need to scroll further to find it.

If your iPhone has two SIM slots (some newer models do), you'll see both IMEI and IMEI 2 listed separately. iPhone also displays your phone number, carrier, and other device details on this same screen, so you can gather multiple pieces of information in one place.

Checking your IMEI without access to the phone

If your phone is lost, stolen, or won't power on, you have other ways to find the IMEI. Check the original box your phone came in — the IMEI is usually printed on a label on the back or inside. If you still have the box, this is often the fastest option.

Your carrier (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, etc.) also has your IMEI on file. Log into your account online or call customer service and ask them to provide it. You'll need to verify your identity, but they can give you the number in minutes. Your SIM card tray may also have the IMEI printed on it — remove the tray and look for a 15-digit number.

If you bought the phone from a retailer like Best Buy or Amazon, your receipt or order confirmation may include the IMEI. Check your email for the original order or contact the retailer's customer service.

What to do after you find your IMEI

Once you have your IMEI, write it down or take a screenshot and store it somewhere safe — a notes app, a password manager, or a document on your computer. You may not need it for months or years, but having it saved means you won't have to search for it again if your phone is lost or damaged.

If you're reporting a stolen phone, give the IMEI to your carrier immediately. They can blacklist the device so it won't work on any network, even if someone puts a different SIM card in it. If you're filing an insurance claim, the insurance company will ask for the IMEI to verify the device and confirm it's yours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone use my IMEI to track my phone?

No. Your IMEI is a hardware identifier, not a location tracker. Sharing your IMEI with a carrier, insurance company, or repair shop is safe. However, do not share it on public forums or with strangers, because someone could use it to impersonate your device or file false claims.

What's the difference between IMEI and IMSI?

IMEI is your phone's hardware number. IMSI is your SIM card's number. When you dial *#06#, both may appear on your screen. You need the IMEI for most purposes like insurance or theft reporting. The IMSI changes if you swap SIM cards.

Does a factory reset change my IMEI?

No. A factory reset erases your data and apps but leaves the IMEI unchanged because it's stored in your phone's hardware, not in software. Your IMEI stays the same for the life of the device.

Why do I see two different IMEI numbers on my phone?

Your phone has two SIM slots, so it has two separate IMEI numbers — one for each slot. Both are valid. If you only use one SIM card, you only need to remember one IMEI, but both are yours.

What if the IMEI in my carrier's system doesn't match my phone?

Contact your carrier immediately. This usually means the SIM card is registered to a different device, or there was an error when you switched phones. The carrier can update their records once you verify your identity and confirm the correct IMEI.