What an IMEI number is and why you need it

Your IMEI number is a 15-digit code that identifies your specific phone to mobile networks worldwide. Think of it like a serial number for your device — it's unique to your phone and stays the same for its lifetime. You'll need this number if you're switching carriers, filing an insurance claim, reporting a stolen phone to police, or troubleshooting network problems with your provider.

The IMEI is different from your phone number or SIM card number. Your phone number changes if you switch carriers or plans, and your SIM card can be replaced. But your IMEI stays tied to the physical device itself, which is why carriers and law enforcement use it to track and identify phones.

Key Takeaways

  • You can find your IMEI by dialing *#06# on any phone — this works on iPhones, Android phones, and most other devices.
  • On iPhones, you can also find the IMEI in Settings > General > About, listed as "IMEI".
  • On Android phones, go to Settings > About Phone > Status or IMEI Information depending on your manufacturer.
  • If your phone won't turn on, check the original box, receipt, or SIM card tray — many phones print the IMEI on these physical items.
  • Write down or screenshot your IMEI and keep it somewhere safe in case you need it later.

The fastest method: dial *#06#

The quickest way to see your IMEI is to open your phone's dialer and type *#06#, then press call. A popup window will appear showing your IMEI number immediately — no menu navigation needed. This method works on iPhones, Android phones, and most other mobile devices.

Write down the 15-digit number or take a screenshot before closing the popup. If you have multiple SIM cards in your phone, you may see more than one IMEI listed — each SIM slot has its own IMEI.

Finding the IMEI on an iPhone

On an iPhone, you have two ways to find your IMEI. The fastest is still the *#06# method above. If that doesn't work for some reason, open the Settings app and tap General, then scroll down and tap About. Look for the line labeled IMEI — the 15-digit number next to it is what you need.

You can also find your IMEI in the iPhone box it came in, printed on a label on the back. If you no longer have the box, check your original receipt or invoice from your carrier — many include the IMEI.

Finding the IMEI on an Android phone

On Android, open the Settings app and look for a section called About Phone or Device Information — the exact name varies by manufacturer. Once you're in that section, look for IMEI, IMEI Information, or Status. The IMEI will be displayed as a 15-digit number.

Some Android phones split the IMEI across two SIM slots, so you may see "IMEI 1" and "IMEI 2" if your phone supports dual SIM. Write down whichever IMEI corresponds to the SIM card you're using, or note both if you use both slots.

What to do if your phone won't turn on

If your phone is broken or won't power up, you can still find the IMEI without turning it on. Check the original box your phone came in — the IMEI is usually printed on a label on the back or bottom. If you don't have the box, look at your receipt or invoice from your carrier or retailer; most include the IMEI.

You can also remove the SIM card tray (use a SIM ejector tool or a straightened paperclip) and look at the tray itself — some phones print the IMEI on the tray. As a last resort, contact your carrier with your phone number or account details, and they can look up the IMEI in their system.

Keeping your IMEI safe

Once you have your IMEI, write it down or take a screenshot and store it somewhere you can find it later. A notes app on your computer, a password manager, or even a piece of paper in a drawer works fine. You don't need to keep it secret the way you would a password — the IMEI is not sensitive information — but having it on hand saves time if you ever need it.

If your phone is stolen, having the IMEI written down lets you give it to police immediately and contact your carrier to block the device from their network. If you're switching phones, you'll have the number ready without having to dig through old boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone use my IMEI to track my phone?

Not without help from your carrier or law enforcement. The IMEI is how networks identify your phone, but only your carrier and police have the tools to use it for tracking. Sharing your IMEI with someone else won't let them locate you or access your data.

What's the difference between IMEI and IMSI?

IMEI identifies the physical phone itself. IMSI identifies your SIM card and your account on the network. You need the IMEI to report a stolen phone or switch carriers; you need the IMSI less often, and it's usually only relevant to your carrier.

Do I need both IMEI numbers if my phone has two SIM slots?

Only if you use both SIM cards regularly. If you only use one slot, write down that IMEI. If you use both, note both numbers so you know which is which. Your carrier can tell you which one is active on your account.

Will my IMEI change if I update my phone's software?

No. Software updates, factory resets, and changing your SIM card do not change your IMEI. The IMEI is tied to the hardware and stays the same for the life of the phone.

Can I find my IMEI online if I forgot to write it down?

If you bought the phone from a carrier, contact them with your account details and they can look it up. If you bought it from a retailer, check your receipt or email confirmation — many include the IMEI. If you have the original box, check the label on the back.