How to Find the IMEI Number on Your iPad

The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique 15-digit identifier assigned to every cellular-capable device. For iPads with cellular connectivity, this number is essential for carrier unlocking requests, insurance claims, warranty verification, and reporting a device as lost or stolen. Knowing where to find it — and understanding which iPads even have one — saves significant time when you actually need it.

Does Your iPad Have an IMEI?

Not every iPad has an IMEI. This is the first variable that determines your path.

Wi-Fi only iPads do not have an IMEI. They connect exclusively through wireless networks and are never registered with a mobile carrier, so there's no IMEI to assign.

Cellular iPads (sometimes labeled Wi-Fi + Cellular) do have an IMEI because they contain a modem chip that communicates with mobile networks. Some newer cellular iPads also carry an EID (embedded SIM identifier) alongside the IMEI.

If you're unsure which model you have, check the back of the device — cellular models typically include regulatory text referencing cellular standards, while Wi-Fi-only models do not.

Method 1: Find the IMEI in iPad Settings 📱

This is the most reliable method if your iPad is powered on and accessible.

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

On newer iPads running recent versions of iPadOS, you may also see fields for MEID, EID, or both. The IMEI is the 15-digit number you're looking for. You can tap and hold the number to copy it directly — useful when filling out forms or sending it to a carrier.

Method 2: Check the Physical Device

Apple prints key identifiers directly on the hardware for situations where the device is unavailable, locked, or non-functional.

On the back of the iPad: Many iPad models display the IMEI in small text along the bottom edge of the rear casing. It's often listed alongside the model number and regulatory information. You may need good lighting or a magnifying glass to read it clearly.

On the original box: The retail packaging includes a barcode label that lists the IMEI, serial number, and model number. If you kept the box, this is a fast alternative.

On the SIM card tray: On iPads with a physical SIM slot, some models print the IMEI on the tray itself. Eject the tray using a SIM tool or a small paperclip to check.

Method 3: Use iTunes or Finder on a Computer

If your iPad is damaged, won't boot, or you're managing devices remotely, a connected computer can pull the IMEI.

• On macOS Catalina or later: Connect the iPad via USB, open Finder, select the device in the sidebar, and the summary panel displays the serial number. Click on it to cycle through and reveal the IMEI.
• On Windows or older macOS: Open iTunes, connect the iPad, click the device icon, and click the serial number field on the Summary tab — it will toggle to show the IMEI.

This method works even when the iPad is in recovery mode, which makes it particularly useful in troubleshooting scenarios.

Method 4: Check Apple ID / iCloud

Apple stores device information linked to your Apple ID.

1. Go to appleid.apple.com in a browser
2. Sign in with the Apple ID associated with the iPad
3. Under Devices, select the iPad
4. The IMEI and other identifiers will be listed

This approach is especially valuable if the device is lost, stolen, or otherwise inaccessible. As long as the iPad was signed into your Apple ID, the information remains in your account.

Method 5: Carrier Account or Documentation

If the iPad was purchased through a carrier on a data plan, the carrier's account portal or original paperwork frequently includes the IMEI on file. This is worth checking if other methods aren't available — particularly for corporate-managed devices where direct access may be restricted.

IMEI vs. Serial Number vs. EID — What's the Difference?

Carriers typically need the IMEI. Apple Support typically asks for the serial number. Knowing which one you're being asked for prevents confusion.

Factors That Affect Which Method Works for You

Several variables shape which approach is practical in a given situation:

• Device condition — A powered-on, functional iPad makes the Settings method fastest. A bricked or damaged device shifts you toward hardware inspection or iCloud.
• iPadOS version — The exact location of IMEI in Settings has shifted slightly across major iPadOS versions, though it has remained within General → About consistently.
• iPad generation — Older iPads may not display an EID; some very old cellular models use MEID instead of IMEI.
• Physical accessibility — If the device is in a case, the back-of-device text may not be readable without removing it.
• Account setup — The iCloud method only works if the iPad was signed in to an Apple ID before it became inaccessible.

Which method is actually the right starting point depends on the state of your device, whether you have physical access to it, and what you're ultimately trying to accomplish with the IMEI — all things only you can assess from your current situation.