Your IMEI is on your phone right now — here are the fastest ways to find it

Your IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a 15-digit number that identifies your specific iPhone to your carrier and to Apple. You need it when reporting a lost phone, switching carriers, checking warranty status, or unlocking your device. The number is stored in your phone's settings, printed on your original box and receipt, and visible on your SIM card tray — so you have multiple ways to locate it depending on what you have available.

Most of the time you will find your IMEI in under a minute using the Settings app or a quick dial code. If your phone is not working or you do not have it with you, your carrier or the original box will have the number on file.

Key Takeaways

  • The fastest way to find your IMEI is to open Settings, tap General, then About, and look for the number labeled IMEI.
  • You can also dial *#06# on your iPhone's keypad and the IMEI will appear on your screen immediately.
  • Your original iPhone box, receipt, and SIM card tray all display your IMEI if you have access to them.
  • Apple's Find My iPhone feature shows your IMEI on iCloud.com if you cannot access your phone directly.

Check Settings on Your iPhone

This is the most straightforward method if your phone is powered on and working normally. Open the Settings app on your home screen, then tap General. Scroll down and tap About. Your IMEI appears on this screen — it is the 15-digit number labeled "IMEI".

If you have multiple lines or eSIMs on your phone, you may see more than one IMEI listed. Each one corresponds to a different line or SIM card. Write down or screenshot the correct number for the line you need. The IMEI will be grouped with other device information like your phone number, serial number, and model.

Use the Dial Code to Display Your IMEI

Open the Phone app and tap the keypad. Dial *#06# and press the call button. Your IMEI will appear on the screen within seconds — you do not need to complete a call. This method works even if your phone has no service or is in airplane mode.

This is often the fastest option because it bypasses the Settings menu entirely. The number disappears when you hang up, so take a screenshot or write it down immediately if you need to keep it. This dial code works on virtually all iPhones regardless of age or iOS version.

Look at Your Original iPhone Box and Receipt

Your IMEI is printed on the back of your original iPhone box, usually in a barcode section near the bottom. It is also listed on your receipt from the carrier or retailer where you purchased the phone. If you have either of these documents, you can find the number without turning on your phone.

This method is useful if your iPhone is lost, stolen, or not functioning. Keep your receipt in a safe place for this reason — it contains information you may need later. The box typically shows the IMEI in small print alongside other regulatory information and barcodes.

Check Your SIM Card Tray

Remove your SIM card tray using the SIM ejector tool (a small metal pin that came with your phone, or a straightened paperclip). The IMEI is printed on the tray itself. You do not need to remove the SIM card — just look at the tray.

This method works if your phone is powered off or not responding. The number is small and may be hard to read, so use good lighting or a magnifying glass if needed. On newer iPhones with eSIM, the tray may still show an IMEI even if you are not using a physical SIM card.

Find Your IMEI Through iCloud.com

If your iPhone is lost or you cannot access it directly, you can view your IMEI through Find My iPhone on iCloud.com. Sign in with your Apple ID, click Find My iPhone, select your device from the list, and click the information icon. Your IMEI appears in the device details.

This method requires that Find My iPhone is turned on and that you remember your Apple ID password. If you have multiple iPhones linked to your account, make sure you select the correct device before looking for the IMEI. This is especially useful if your phone is powered off or unreachable.

What to Do If You Cannot Find Your IMEI

Contact your carrier directly — they have your IMEI on file and can provide it over the phone. You will need to verify your account by answering security questions or providing your phone number and account PIN. This takes a few minutes but works if all other methods are unavailable.

You can also contact Apple Support with your proof of purchase. They can look up your IMEI using your serial number or receipt information. This is slower than calling your carrier but works if you no longer have your original documentation. Have your account details ready when you call.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between IMEI and serial number?

Your IMEI identifies your phone to the cellular network, while your serial number identifies it to Apple. Both are unique to your device, but they serve different purposes. Your serial number is also in Settings under General > About, listed separately from your IMEI.

Can someone use my IMEI to track my phone?

Your IMEI alone cannot be used to track your location. However, if someone has your IMEI and your phone number, they could contact your carrier and potentially access account information. Keep your IMEI private the same way you would keep your phone number private.

Do I need my IMEI to switch carriers?

Some carriers ask for your IMEI when you switch, but most do not require it. Your account number and PIN are usually sufficient. If your new carrier asks for it, you can provide it using any of the methods above.

Will my IMEI change if I update iOS?

No. Your IMEI is tied to your phone's hardware and does not change when you update the operating system, reset your phone, or change your SIM card. It stays the same for the life of the device.

What should I do if I lost my iPhone and need to report the IMEI?

Contact your carrier immediately with your IMEI so they can block the device from being used on their network. You can also report it to local police and file a claim with your insurance company if you have coverage. Having your IMEI ready speeds up this process.