How to Check the IMEI Number on Your iPhone

Every iPhone carries a unique 15-digit identifier called an IMEI number (International Mobile Equipment Identity). It's essentially your device's fingerprint — no two phones share the same one. Whether you're selling your iPhone, checking if it's blacklisted, unlocking it for a new carrier, or filing an insurance claim, knowing how to find this number is a practical skill every iPhone owner should have.

Here's every reliable method to locate it.

What Is an IMEI Number and Why Does It Matter?

The IMEI is a globally recognized identifier used by mobile networks to authenticate devices. Carriers, manufacturers, and law enforcement agencies use it to:

• Track stolen or lost devices and flag them on international blacklists
• Verify a phone's history before purchasing secondhand
• Process carrier unlocks when switching networks
• Validate warranty and repair claims

Unlike a serial number (which is more of a manufacturer's internal tracking code), the IMEI is tied to cellular network identity. If your iPhone is ever reported stolen, its IMEI can be blocked by carriers, making it unable to connect to any mobile network — even with a new SIM card.

Method 1: Check IMEI in iPhone Settings 📱

This is the most straightforward approach and works on virtually every iPhone running a modern version of iOS.

1. Open the Settings app
2. Tap General
3. Tap About
4. Scroll down until you see IMEI

On iPhones that support dual SIM (iPhone XS and later), you may see two IMEI numbers listed — IMEI and IMEI2. This is normal. Each represents a separate cellular identity, one for each SIM slot or eSIM profile.

Method 2: Dial a Code on Your Keypad

If your iPhone can make calls, this shortcut works instantly:

1. Open the Phone app
2. Go to the Keypad
3. Dial *#06#

Your IMEI number (or numbers, on dual SIM models) will appear on screen immediately without needing to place an actual call. This method works across virtually all GSM-compatible devices, not just iPhones.

Method 3: Check the Physical iPhone Tray or Body

Apple prints the IMEI directly on the hardware on most iPhone models:

Note: If the text on the SIM tray is worn or illegible, rely on Settings or the dial code instead. Never trust a handwritten or sticker-applied IMEI — that's a common red flag when buying used phones.

Method 4: Find It Through iTunes or Finder

If your iPhone's screen is cracked, damaged, or the device won't boot properly, you can still retrieve the IMEI through a computer:

On Mac (macOS Catalina or later):

1. Connect your iPhone via USB
2. Open Finder
3. Select your iPhone in the sidebar
4. Click on the General tab
5. Click on the phone's model information (the line showing storage capacity) repeatedly — it cycles through serial number, IMEI, and other identifiers

On Windows (or older macOS):

1. Connect your iPhone via USB
2. Open iTunes
3. Click the iPhone icon near the top left
4. Under the Summary tab, click the Serial Number field to cycle through to the IMEI

Method 5: Check Your Apple ID Account Online

Apple stores your device's IMEI in your account when you sign in with your Apple ID.

1. Go to appleid.apple.com in a browser
2. Sign in with your Apple ID
3. Scroll to the Devices section
4. Click on your iPhone
5. The IMEI will be listed along with the serial number and model

This method is particularly useful if you no longer have physical access to the device — for example, if it was lost or stolen and you need the IMEI to report it to your carrier or law enforcement.

Method 6: Check the Original Packaging

If you still have the box your iPhone came in, the IMEI is printed on a label on the outside. This is often useful when the device itself isn't available. Just be aware the IMEI on the box should always match the IMEI shown on the device — a mismatch is a serious warning sign with secondhand purchases.

Factors That Affect Which Method Works Best for You 🔍

Not every method is equally practical depending on your situation:

• Screen damage or device not powering on → Finder/iTunes or the original box are your only options
• No computer access → Settings menu or dial code are fastest
• Buying a used iPhone → Cross-reference the IMEI from Settings and the SIM tray to confirm they match
• Dual SIM iPhones → You'll see two IMEIs; carriers and unlock services typically need the one associated with the active SIM
• eSIM-only models (US iPhone 14 and later) → No physical SIM tray exists, so Settings, the dial code, or Apple ID are the go-to methods

What to Do With Your IMEI Once You Have It

Finding the number is step one. What matters next depends entirely on your situation:

• Checking if a used phone is blacklisted: Several third-party services and carrier websites accept IMEI lookups to flag stolen or financed devices
• Requesting a carrier unlock: Most carriers require you to submit the IMEI through their unlock portal or customer service
• Reporting a lost or stolen device: Provide the IMEI to your carrier and local authorities to have it flagged
• Verifying authenticity: Comparing the IMEI across physical, software, and packaging sources confirms you have a legitimate, unmodified device

The right next step — and which services or processes apply — depends on your carrier, your country's regulations, and the specific reason you needed the IMEI in the first place.