The fastest way: Settings on your iPhone

Open Settings, then tap General, then tap About. Scroll down until you see the line labeled Serial Number. That 12-character code is your serial number. Write it down or take a screenshot if you need it for warranty claims, repairs, or insurance.

This method works on any iPhone running iOS 10 or later. The serial number stays the same for the life of your phone — it does not change when you update iOS or restore your device.

Key Takeaways

  • Your serial number appears in Settings > General > About, labeled as "Serial Number" on the screen.
  • The serial number is a 12-character code unique to your specific iPhone and never changes.
  • You can also find it printed on the back of your iPhone (older models) or inside the SIM tray, though the Settings method is most reliable.
  • Apple Support and repair shops use your serial number to check warranty status, service history, and whether your phone is may be able to access for repairs.
  • Keep your serial number somewhere safe if you plan to sell your iPhone or file an insurance claim.

Finding the serial number on the physical device

If your iPhone is not turning on or you cannot reach Settings, you can find the serial number printed on the device itself. On iPhone 12 and newer models, the serial number is printed on the back of the phone in small text near the bottom. On older iPhones (iPhone 11 and earlier), it is printed on the back as well, though the exact location varies by model.

You can also find the serial number inside the SIM tray. Remove the SIM tray using the small ejector tool that came with your iPhone (or a straightened paperclip), and look at the tray itself — the serial number is often printed there. This method works on most iPhone models and does not require the phone to be powered on.

Why you need your serial number

Apple and authorized repair shops use your serial number to look up your warranty status, check your service history, and confirm whether your phone is may be able to access for repairs or replacements. If you are filing an insurance claim for a lost or damaged iPhone, your insurance company will ask for the serial number to verify the device and process your claim.

Your serial number is also useful if you are selling your iPhone. Buyers can use it to check whether the phone has been reported as lost or stolen, and whether it is still tied to an Apple ID. You should keep your serial number in a safe place — written down or stored in a password manager — separate from the phone itself.

What your serial number tells you (and what it does not)

Your serial number identifies your specific iPhone, but it does not tell you the storage capacity, color, or whether it is a carrier-locked model — you need to check Settings > General > About for those details. The serial number also does not reveal your personal data, passwords, or which apps you have installed. It is safe to share with Apple Support, repair shops, and your insurance company.

The serial number is different from your IMEI number (a 15-digit code used by carriers to identify your phone on their network) and your ICCID (the SIM card's unique identifier). If a support agent asks for your IMEI or ICCID, you can find those in the same Settings > General > About screen.

Serial number versus UDID and other identifiers

Your iPhone has several different identification numbers, and it is easy to confuse them. The serial number is what you see in Settings > General > About and is the one Apple Support and repair shops ask for. The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a 15-digit number that identifies your phone to cellular carriers. The ICCID is printed on your SIM card and identifies the SIM itself, not the phone.

Older iPhones also had a UDID (Unique Device Identifier), but Apple stopped using it years ago. If you are dealing with Apple Support or a repair shop, they will ask for your serial number — that is the one to have ready.

Checking your serial number if you have an old iPhone

If you have an older iPhone that you no longer use, you can still find the serial number the same way: Settings > General > About. Even if the phone is not connected to Wi-Fi or cellular, the serial number will display. If the phone is too old to turn on or the screen is broken, check the back of the device or the SIM tray for the printed serial number.

If you are trying to look up information about an iPhone you no longer own, you can contact Apple Support with the serial number and they can tell you whether it is still under warranty or has any open repair cases associated with it. You will need to verify that you own or owned the device.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I find my serial number if my iPhone is locked with a passcode?

Yes. You do not need to unlock your iPhone to see the serial number in Settings > General > About — that screen is accessible from the lock screen. You can also check the back of the phone or the SIM tray without unlocking it.

Is my serial number the same as my phone number?

No. Your phone number is assigned by your carrier and can change if you switch carriers or get a new SIM card. Your serial number is permanent and unique to your physical iPhone. They are completely separate identifiers.

What should I do if I cannot find my serial number?

Try all three methods: Settings > General > About, the back of the phone, and the SIM tray. If none of those work, contact Apple Support with your phone number or Apple ID and they can look up your device information. You will need to verify your identity.

Can someone use my serial number to access my data or location?

No. Your serial number is just an identifier — it does not grant access to your photos, messages, location, or any personal data. It is safe to share with Apple Support, repair shops, and your insurance company. Your data is protected by your passcode and Apple ID password, not your serial number.

Do I need my serial number to sell my iPhone?

You should provide it to the buyer so they can verify the phone is not reported as lost or stolen. You can check this yourself on Apple's Find My website before selling — if the phone shows as lost or stolen, the buyer will not be able to use it. Providing the serial number builds trust in the transaction.