The fastest way: Settings on your phone

Open Settings on your iPhone, then tap General. Scroll down and tap About. Your serial number appears on the screen as a string of letters and numbers — it looks something like "F2NNLW31Q05M". You can tap it to copy it to your clipboard, then paste it into an email or document.

This method works on every iPhone model and every recent iOS version. You do not need a computer or any special software. The serial number stays the same for the life of your phone.

Key Takeaways

  • Your serial number is in Settings > General > About, and you can copy it directly from there to paste elsewhere.
  • The physical serial number is printed on the back of your iPhone, usually near the bottom, and also appears on the SIM tray if you remove it.
  • Apple uses your serial number to check warranty status, process repairs, and verify that your phone is genuine.
  • If you cannot access Settings, you can still find the number on the physical device or on your original receipt and box.

Finding the serial number on the physical phone

Look at the back of your iPhone near the bottom. You will see small printed text that includes your serial number along with other information like the model number and regulatory details. The serial number is usually labeled as "Serial No." or just "SN" followed by the code.

On some iPhone models, the text is harder to read because it is printed in a light color on a light background. Tilt the phone under good lighting or use your phone's flashlight to see it more clearly. If your phone has a case, you will need to remove it first.

You can also find the serial number on the SIM tray — the small metal slot on the side of your phone where the SIM card sits. Remove the SIM tray using the ejector tool that came with your phone (or a straightened paperclip), and look at the underside. The serial number is printed there as well.

Where Apple stores your serial number

When you set up your iPhone for the first time, Apple records your serial number in your account. You can view it by going to appleid.apple.com on any computer or phone, signing in with your Apple ID, and looking at your registered devices. Each device shows its serial number, model, and the date you registered it.

Your original iPhone box also has the serial number printed on a label on the back. If you still have the box, this is another place to find it without turning on the phone.

Why Apple and others ask for your serial number

Apple uses your serial number to check your warranty status, process repairs through Apple Care, and verify that your phone is authentic. If you are selling your phone or trading it in, the buyer may ask for the serial number to confirm the device matches what they are receiving. Repair shops outside of Apple also use it to order the correct replacement parts.

Your serial number is not sensitive information in the way a password is — it is printed on the outside of your phone and visible to anyone who holds it. However, do not share it with people you do not trust, because it can be used to look up your warranty status or impersonate your device in some contexts.

What to do if you cannot find your serial number

If your phone is damaged and the back text is unreadable, or if you lost the box and cannot access Settings, contact Apple Support directly. They can look up your serial number using your Apple ID and phone number. Have your Apple ID password ready when you call or chat with them.

If you are trying to find the serial number of a phone that will not turn on, the physical number on the back or SIM tray is your best option. If that is also damaged or worn away, Apple can still help you — they have other ways to identify your device using your account information.

Serial number versus IMEI and other device codes

Your iPhone has several different identification numbers, and it is easy to confuse them. The serial number is what you see in Settings > About and on the back of the phone. The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a different 15-digit number that identifies your phone on cellular networks — you can find it by dialing *#06# on your phone, or in Settings > General > About under "IMEI".

The Model Number (like A2846 or A2847) identifies which iPhone version you have — iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Pro, and so on. When someone asks for your "serial number," they almost always mean the serial number itself, not the IMEI or model number. If you are unsure which one they need, ask them directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my iPhone's serial number?

No. Your serial number is burned into your phone's hardware when it is manufactured and cannot be changed through software. If someone tells you they can change it, they are either mistaken or trying to scam you. Changing a serial number is illegal in most places because it is used to track stolen devices.

Is my serial number the same as my phone number?

No. Your phone number is assigned by your carrier and can be changed or transferred to a different phone. Your serial number is unique to that specific physical device and never changes. They are completely separate identifiers.

What if two iPhones have the same serial number?

This should never happen with genuine iPhones. If you encounter two devices with identical serial numbers, one of them is counterfeit or has been illegally modified. Do not purchase or use a phone if you suspect this is the case.

Do I need my serial number to set up a new iPhone?

No. You need your Apple ID and password to set up a new iPhone and restore your data. The serial number is not part of the setup process. Apple records it automatically once you sign in.

Can someone use my serial number to track my phone?

Not directly. Your serial number alone cannot be used to locate your phone or access your data. If your phone is lost or stolen, use Find My iPhone through iCloud.com or another Apple device — that uses your Apple ID, not your serial number. Your serial number is useful mainly for warranty claims and repairs.