How to Check IMEI on iPhone: Every Method Explained

Your iPhone's IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a 15-digit number that uniquely identifies your device. It's used to verify authenticity, check carrier lock status, report a stolen phone, or confirm compatibility before switching networks. Knowing where to find it — and which method works in your situation — depends on a few factors worth understanding.

What Is an IMEI and Why Does It Matter?

Every mobile device manufactured for cellular use carries an IMEI. Think of it as a serial number, but one recognized globally by carriers and regulatory bodies. Unlike your Apple ID or phone number, the IMEI is tied to the physical hardware itself.

Common reasons you'd need it:

• Carrier unlocking requests — carriers require the IMEI to process unlock eligibility
• Insurance claims — most providers ask for it when filing
• Buying or selling used iPhones — buyers use it to verify the device hasn't been blacklisted or reported stolen
• Network compatibility checks — some MVNO and international carriers use it to confirm band support
• Activation Lock and lost mode — Apple's systems tie device blocking to the IMEI

Method 1: Check IMEI Directly in iPhone Settings ⚙️

This is the most reliable method when your iPhone is powered on and functional.

1. Open Settings
2. Tap General
3. Tap About
4. Scroll down to find IMEI

On iPhones that support dual SIM (iPhone XS and later), you may see two entries: IMEI and IMEI2. This is normal — each represents a separate cellular radio slot or eSIM line.

You can tap and hold the IMEI number to copy it directly to your clipboard, which is useful when filling out carrier forms or insurance documents.

Method 2: Dial a USSD Code

If you want a quick shortcut without navigating menus:

1. Open the Phone app
2. Dial *#06#
3. The IMEI will appear on screen immediately — no need to press call

This method works across virtually all iPhones and doesn't require the SIM to be active. The number displayed should match what's shown in Settings.

Method 3: Find It on the Physical Device

Apple prints the IMEI in a few physical locations depending on the model:

If your screen is cracked or the phone won't turn on, checking the SIM tray is often the fastest fallback. Use the SIM ejector tool (or a small paperclip) to pop the tray out and look for the engraved number.

Method 4: Check the Original Packaging

If you still have the box your iPhone came in, the IMEI is printed on a label on the outside — typically near the barcode. This is especially useful if the phone itself is unavailable or you're trying to verify a device before purchasing secondhand.

Method 5: Check Through iTunes or Finder 🖥️

If the phone won't turn on, or you're managing it from a computer:

On Mac (macOS Catalina and later):

1. Connect your iPhone via USB
2. Open Finder
3. Select your device in the sidebar
4. Click on the phone's storage capacity displayed under the device name — it cycles through serial number, UDID, and IMEI with each click

On Windows or older macOS:

1. Connect your iPhone via USB
2. Open iTunes
3. Click the device icon
4. Click the serial number field — it cycles through the same information

This method is particularly relevant when dealing with a device in recovery mode or one that can't complete the boot process.

Method 6: Check Apple's Website

If you've previously registered the device or signed in with an Apple ID:

1. Go to appleid.apple.com
2. Sign in and navigate to your devices
3. Select the iPhone — device details including IMEI may be listed

The availability of IMEI information here varies by how the device was added to the account and the iOS version it ran when associated.

Variables That Affect Which Method Works for You

Not every method is equally accessible depending on your situation:

• Screen functionality — a broken display makes the Settings method impossible; physical methods or iTunes become essential
• iPhone model — older models have the IMEI engraved on the back; newer ones don't
• Dual SIM setup — if you're on a dual SIM or eSIM configuration, you'll need to know which IMEI corresponds to which line
• Access to original packaging — useful for pre-purchase verification but not always available
• Operating system version — the Finder method only applies to macOS Catalina (10.15) and later; iTunes remains the path on older systems

A Note on IMEI and Device Status 📱

Finding your IMEI is only the first step for certain tasks. Once you have it, third-party services and carrier portals can run checks against global blacklists — but what those results mean, and whether a flagged IMEI disqualifies a device for your specific use case, depends on your carrier, your country, and how you intend to use the device.

A clean IMEI on a locked phone behaves differently than the same IMEI on an unlocked one. An IMEI associated with an active installment plan may show differently than one on a fully paid device. The number itself is just the starting point — its implications shift considerably based on the full picture of the device's history and your intended use.