Where to find your IMEI on your iPhone

Your iPhone's IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a 15-digit number that identifies your specific device to cellular networks. You can find it in three places without needing any special tools: in Settings, on your physical SIM card tray, or by dialing a code.

The easiest method is through Settings. Open Settings, tap General, then About. Scroll down and you'll see "IMEI" listed there — the full 15-digit number appears on that line. This works on any iPhone running iOS 10 or later.

If you prefer a physical reference, eject your SIM card tray using the small pin that came with your iPhone (or a straightened paperclip). The IMEI is printed on the tray itself, though the text is small. This method works even if your phone won't turn on.

You can also dial *#06# on your iPhone's keypad and press call. A popup will appear showing your IMEI immediately. This works on any iPhone with cellular service, even if you're not connected to a network.

Key Takeaways

  • Your IMEI appears in Settings under General > About, and you can read it directly on your screen.
  • The IMEI is also printed on your SIM card tray, which you can eject without tools by using the included pin.
  • Dialing *#06# and pressing call displays your IMEI in a popup, even if your phone is locked or offline.
  • Write down or screenshot your IMEI and store it somewhere safe in case you need it for repairs, insurance claims, or to report a lost phone.

Why you might need your IMEI

Your IMEI serves as proof of ownership and device identity. If your iPhone is lost or stolen, you can provide the IMEI to your carrier (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, or others) so they can block the device from connecting to their network. This prevents someone else from using your phone on that carrier's service.

Insurance companies and repair shops also ask for your IMEI when you file a claim or bring your phone in for service. It confirms which specific device you're talking about and helps them pull up your service history. Some carriers use the IMEI to verify warranty coverage before authorizing repairs.

If you're selling your iPhone, the buyer may ask for the IMEI to verify the phone hasn't been reported stolen or blacklisted by a carrier. Providing it shows transparency and builds trust in the transaction.

The difference between IMEI and other phone numbers

Your IMEI is not the same as your phone number, your Apple ID, or your SIM card number — though all three appear in your Settings. Your phone number is what people call or text you; your carrier assigns it to your SIM card. Your Apple ID is your account with Apple for purchases and iCloud services. Your SIM card has its own number (called the ICCID) printed on the tray next to the IMEI.

The IMEI is tied to the physical hardware of your iPhone itself, not to your account or carrier. If you switch carriers or move to a new SIM card, your IMEI stays the same because it identifies the device, not the service. This is why it's useful for proving ownership — it's unique to your specific phone and doesn't change.

What to do if you can't find your IMEI

If Settings won't open or your phone is damaged, the SIM card tray method is your best option. Eject the tray and read the number printed there. You don't need the phone to be powered on or functional for this to work.

If your SIM tray is also damaged or missing, contact your carrier directly. Provide them with your phone number and account information, and they can look up your IMEI in their system. They have a record of every device that has ever connected to their network using your account.

Apple can also retrieve your IMEI if you visit an Apple Store with proof of purchase or your Apple ID. Bring your ID and any documentation you have about the phone — they can confirm the IMEI from their records.

Keeping your IMEI safe

Your IMEI is not a secret like a password, but it's worth keeping a record of it somewhere you can access later. Take a screenshot of your IMEI from Settings and store it in a note app, email it to yourself, or write it down in a safe place. If your phone is lost or stolen, you'll need this number quickly to contact your carrier.

Do not share your IMEI with strangers or on public websites unless you're working directly with your carrier or Apple on a specific issue. Scammers sometimes use IMEI numbers to impersonate device owners or file false claims, though the risk is low if you're careful about who you give it to.

If you're selling your iPhone, provide the IMEI only to the buyer after you've agreed on a price and met in person. Use a secure payment method and verify the buyer's identity before handing over the device.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone use my IMEI to track my iPhone?

No. Your IMEI identifies your device to the cellular network, but it doesn't contain location data or allow remote tracking. Only your carrier and Apple (through Find My iPhone) can locate your phone, and they use different systems. Sharing your IMEI alone does not put your location at risk.

What if my IMEI shows as invalid or doesn't match what the carrier says?

Contact your carrier's customer service with your phone number and account details. They can confirm the correct IMEI in their system and investigate any mismatch. A mismatch usually means the SIM tray number is worn or hard to read — the Settings version is more reliable.

Do I need my IMEI to unlock my iPhone?

No. Unlocking an iPhone (so it works on any carrier) requires your Apple ID password and is handled through Apple or your carrier, not through the IMEI. The IMEI is used to verify ownership and block stolen devices, not to unlock them.

Will my IMEI change if I get a new SIM card?

No. Your IMEI is tied to the physical iPhone hardware and never changes, even if you switch carriers, get a new SIM card, or update your phone number. Only the SIM card number (ICCID) changes when you get a new SIM.