Where to find your IMEI on your iPhone right now

Your iPhone's IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a 15-digit number that identifies your specific phone to cellular networks. You can find it three ways: in Settings, by dialing a code, or by looking at the physical phone. The fastest route depends on whether your phone is working and whether you have it in front of you.

If your iPhone is powered on and you can unlock it, Settings is the easiest method. If the phone is damaged or won't turn on, you can read the IMEI from the SIM tray or the back of the original box. If you need it right now and the phone is nearby, dialing *#06# works on any iPhone that has cellular service.

Key Takeaways

  • The IMEI is a 15-digit number unique to your iPhone that identifies it to cellular networks and is needed for insurance claims, carrier unlocking, and theft reports.
  • You can find your IMEI in Settings under General > About, by dialing *#06#, or by removing the SIM tray to read it from the metal slot.
  • If your phone won't turn on or is severely damaged, check the original box, your carrier's account page, or your purchase receipt.
  • Write down or screenshot your IMEI and store it somewhere safe separate from your phone, so you have it if your phone is lost or stolen.

Finding your IMEI through Settings

Open Settings and tap General. Scroll down and tap About. Look for the line labeled IMEI — it will be a 15-digit number. You can tap and hold to copy it, then paste it into Notes or email it to yourself.

This method works on any iPhone running iOS 12 or later. If you see a second IMEI listed (labeled IMEI 2), that means your phone has dual SIM capability — both numbers are valid IMEIs for your device. Write down both if you need them.

Using the dial code to see your IMEI

Open the Phone app and tap the keypad. Dial *#06# and press Call. Your IMEI will appear on the screen within a few seconds. This works even if your phone has no cellular service, as long as it is powered on.

On dual SIM iPhones, this method shows both IMEIs at once. The first is your primary SIM slot; the second is your eSIM or secondary physical SIM. You do not need to actually place a call — the code displays the information and ends automatically.

Reading the IMEI from your SIM tray

If your iPhone won't turn on or the screen is broken, you can find the IMEI printed on the metal SIM tray. Use a SIM ejector tool (the small metal pin that came with your iPhone) or a straightened paperclip to push the tiny hole on the side of your phone. The tray will pop out.

Look at the metal slot itself — the IMEI is printed on the inside surface. It will be a 15-digit number. This method works even if the phone is completely dead, as long as the tray is not damaged. If the printing is worn or illegible, try the other methods instead.

Finding your IMEI on the original box or receipt

If you still have the box your iPhone came in, the IMEI is printed on a label on the back or bottom. Look for a barcode and the text "IMEI" followed by 15 digits. This is the same number as on your phone.

Your original purchase receipt may also list the IMEI, especially if you bought it from an Apple Store or carrier store. Check your email for a digital receipt if you bought it online. Your carrier's account page (on their website or app) will also show your phone's IMEI under device details.

Why you need your IMEI and what to do with it

Your IMEI is used to report a stolen or lost phone to your carrier and to law enforcement. It is also needed if you want to unlock your iPhone to use with a different carrier, if you are filing an insurance claim, or if you are selling the phone and the buyer wants proof of the device's identity.

Store your IMEI somewhere separate from your phone — write it down in a notebook, save it in a password manager, or email it to yourself. If your phone is lost or stolen, you will have the number without needing to access the phone itself. This makes it much faster to report to your carrier and to file a police report.

What to do if you cannot find your IMEI

If none of the above methods work, contact your carrier directly. Call the customer service number on your bill or visit a store with your ID and proof of purchase. They can look up your IMEI in their system using your account information.

If you bought the phone from Apple, you can also visit an Apple Store or contact Apple Support with your proof of purchase. They can retrieve the IMEI from their records. This takes longer than the self-service methods, but it is reliable if the phone itself is not accessible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my IMEI the same as my phone number or SIM card number?

No. Your phone number is assigned by your carrier and can change if you switch carriers or get a new SIM card. Your SIM card has its own number (ICCID). Your IMEI is tied to the physical phone itself and never changes, even if you switch carriers or SIM cards.

Can someone use my IMEI to track my phone?

Not directly. Your IMEI identifies your phone to the cellular network, but it does not broadcast your location. Only your carrier and law enforcement can use an IMEI to locate a phone, and only with a warrant or in an emergency. Sharing your IMEI with someone does not put your privacy at risk.

What if my iPhone has two IMEIs?

Your phone supports dual SIM — either two physical SIM cards or one physical SIM and one eSIM (digital SIM). Both IMEIs are legitimate and belong to your phone. You need both numbers only if you are reporting the phone stolen or unlocking it for use with multiple carriers.

Do I need my IMEI to unlock my iPhone from my carrier?

Your carrier uses your account information to unlock your phone, not your IMEI. However, you may need to provide your IMEI to prove you own the device. Check with your carrier about their specific unlock process — most can do it over the phone or through their website.