The fastest way: Check Settings on your iPhone

Open Settings on your iPhone, then tap General. Scroll down and tap About. Your serial number appears on the screen labeled Serial Number — it's a 12-character code of letters and numbers. You can tap it to copy it to your clipboard, then paste it anywhere you need it.

This method works on every iPhone model and every recent version of iOS. The serial number stays the same throughout your phone's life and doesn't change when you update the software.

Key Takeaways

  • Your iPhone's serial number is a 12-character code found in Settings > General > About, labeled as "Serial Number".
  • You can also find the serial number printed on the physical SIM tray or on the original box your iPhone came in.
  • 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.
  • The serial number is different from your IMEI number (15 digits) and your phone number — all three identify your device in different ways.

Finding the serial number on the physical phone

If your iPhone won't turn on or you can't access Settings, you can find the serial number printed on the device itself. Remove the SIM tray on the side of your iPhone using a SIM ejector tool or a straightened paperclip. The serial number is printed on the tray itself — look for the 12-character code.

This method works regardless of whether your phone is powered on, locked, or damaged. The serial number printed on the SIM tray matches exactly what appears in Settings.

Checking the original box and receipt

If you still have the box your iPhone came in, the serial number is printed on the back of the box, usually near the barcode. Your original receipt from Apple or a carrier may also list the serial number. These sources are useful if your phone is lost or stolen and you need to report it to Apple or your carrier.

The serial number on the box matches the one in your phone's Settings — Apple prints the same code on both during manufacturing.

Why Apple and repair shops ask for your serial number

Your serial number tells Apple and authorized repair shops which factory built your phone, when it was made, and which hardware version you have. They use it to check whether your phone is still under warranty, whether it has been serviced before, and whether it's may be able to access for specific repairs or recalls.

When you contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store for a repair, have your serial number ready. It speeds up the process because the technician can pull up your complete service history in seconds instead of looking it up by phone number or email.

Serial number vs. IMEI vs. phone number

Your iPhone has three different identifying codes, and they serve different purposes. The serial number (12 characters) identifies your specific device to Apple and repair shops. The IMEI number (15 digits) identifies your phone to cellular networks and carriers — you'll need this if your phone is lost or stolen and you want to block it from being used on any network. Your phone number is what people call to reach you.

You can find your IMEI in the same place as your serial number: Settings > General > About. It's labeled IMEI. You can also dial *#06# on any iPhone to display your IMEI on the screen.

What to do if you can't find your serial number

If your phone is damaged, lost, or won't power on, and you don't have the original box, contact Apple Support directly. You can reach them through apple.com/support or by calling 1-800-MY-APPLE. Have your phone number, email address, or the phone number associated with your Apple ID ready — Apple can look up your serial number using that information.

If you're trying to check warranty status or service history and you have your Apple ID, you can also sign into iCloud.com, go to Find My, and select your device — the serial number appears there as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone use my serial number to unlock my iPhone or access my data?

No. Your serial number identifies your phone to Apple and repair shops, but it does not unlock the device or grant access to your accounts. Your passcode, Face ID, and Apple ID password are what protect your data. Sharing your serial number is safe.

Does the serial number change if I restore my iPhone or update iOS?

No. Your serial number is burned into your phone's hardware during manufacturing and never changes. Restoring your iPhone, updating iOS, or erasing all content and settings does not affect your serial number.

What if my serial number doesn't match the one on my box?

Contact Apple Support. A mismatch usually means the box belonged to a different phone, but it could indicate a problem with your device. Apple can verify your serial number against their manufacturing records and help you figure out what happened.

Do I need my serial number to sell my iPhone?

It's helpful to provide it to the buyer so they can verify the phone's history and check for activation lock, but it's not required. The buyer will see the serial number themselves once they power on the phone and go to Settings > General > About.

Where is the serial number on older iPhone models?

The location in Settings is the same across all iPhone models: Settings > General > About. On the physical phone, older models may have the serial number printed on the back of the device instead of on the SIM tray. Check the back panel near the bottom, or remove the SIM tray — one of those locations will have it.