T-Mobile device unlock (2024)

Learn how to use your device on another carrier or wireless provider's network. This may also be known as a SIM unlock, network unlock, or carrier unlock.

On this page:

  • What's a Device Unlock?
  • Unlock your device
  • Get help

What's a Device Unlock

  • Device Unlocklets you use your device with another carrier, for things like international travel or selling your device.
  • Not all devices are compatible with every wireless provider; your device will need to support their network frequencies and technologies.
  • This is different from Domestic orInternationalroaming, where you use a T-Mobile SIM/eSIM to access a different wireless provider's network.

Unlock your device

  1. If you didn't get a notification about unlocking your device, make sure it's eligible to be unlocked:
    1. Log into your T-Mobile Account and choose your line on the Accounts page.
    2. Choose Check device unlock statusto check if your device is locked or unlocked.
    3. Under the device image, check if your device is eligible to be unlocked. ReviewDevice Unlock Policyfor a list of eligibility requirements.
  2. Make sure you are connected to the T-Mobile network or Wi-Fi.
  3. Select your device type and follow the steps:
  1. Swipe up on your Home screen to open your Apps list and follow the steps for your manufacturer:
    • Samsung:Settings>Connections>More Connection Settings>Network Unlock

    • OnePlus:Settings>Wi-Fi & internet>SIM & network, then chooseAdvancedorNetwork Unlock

    • LG:Settings >Network & internet > Mobile networks > Network unlock > Continue

    • Motorola:Settings >About phone> Device unlock > Continue

    • T-Mobile REVVLRY:Settings>Network & Internet>Mobile network>Advanced>Network Unlock

    • TCL:Settings>System >About phone>Device Unlock

    • CAT / Nokia / Wiko:Settings>About phone>Device Unlock

    • Older Android or other manufacturers: Check if your device uses the Device Unlock app, find steps in Tutorials, or contact us for assistance
  2. SelectPermanent Unlockand wait while the device completes the unlock.

  3. Restart the device.

Apple iPhone

  • If you have a locked iPhone that's eligible,Contact usso we can submit the unlock.
  • Once it shows unlocked in your T-Mobile account, either insert your new SIM card or activate your eSIM.

Other devices

  • Choose your device on theDevicespagefor steps orContact usfor assistance.
  • If the steps mention an unlock code,Contact usso we can provide it.

Get help

  • If you've unlocked a T-Mobile device but can't get signal with another carrier, contact the other wireless provider for assistance.
  • If you're bringing an unlocked device to T-Mobile, check out our compatibility checker and signal troubleshooting.
  • Contact usif you can't find the app or settings to unlock your T-Mobile device, or if you get an error message when attempting to complete the unlock.
T-Mobile device unlock (2024)

FAQs

Can I unlock my T-Mobile phone myself? ›

Tap your phone in the Devices section. Scroll down and tap Security under "How Tos." Tap Mobile Device Unlock and follow the on-screen instructions. You're all done!

How much does it cost to unlock a phone from T-Mobile? ›

Official T-Mobile Unlock: This is the recommended method and is typically free. You can request an unlock through T-Mobile's website, app, or by contacting customer support. Third-Party Unlock Services: These services offer faster unlock times but often come at a cost.

What does device unlock mean on T-Mobile? ›

Device unlock (also known as network unlock) lets you use your device with another carrier. This can be useful when you are traveling abroad or you would like to sell your device. Note: Before proceeding with the device unlock steps, make sure your device is eligible to be unlocked.

Can I unlock my IMEI for free? ›

Unlock IMEI is a free app that helps you unlock your device using your IMEI number. This app is compatible with most Android phones and is easy to use. All you have to do is enter your IMEI number, and the app will do the rest. Unlock IMEI Free is a popular app that helps you unlock your device without paying any fees.

What is the 16 digit network unlock code? ›

A 16 digit network unlock code is an alphanumeric code that lets you remove the sim lock from a mobile phone. The sim lock restricts the device to only work on the network of a specific carrier. For example, if you purchase an AT&T phone, it may have a sim lock that prevents you from using it on Verizon's network.

Is My IMEI number Unlocked? ›

Enter your phone's IMEI number into the dialog box on the IMEI checker website and click “check” or a similar command. Your IMEI number should contain 15 digits. The website will display information about the Android phone associated with the provided IMEI, including the unlock status.

How long will it take for T-Mobile to unlock my phone? ›

As soon as your device is eligible, you will receive a text message notification letting you know that you can go through the unlock process. It only takes a couple of minutes as long as you are connected to the T-Mobile data network or reliable Wi-Fi. Android devices are diverse, so the exact steps vary.

Can you unlock a Mobile for free? ›

Ask your wireless carrier what you can do to bring your account into good standing if it refuses to unlock your phone. Wireless service providers are required by law to unlock your phone for free, as long as your account is in good standing and you've fulfilled all contract terms.

Can I use a locked T-Mobile phone? ›

T-Mobile locked phones are typically locked to the T-Mobile network, which means they can only be used with T-Mobile SIM cards until they are unlocked.

Can I ask T-Mobile to unlock my phone? ›

To unlock a phone from T-Mobile, you need to check if your device meets the eligibility criteria. T-Mobile will remotely unlock eligible devices within two business days of meeting the requirements. Android users can unlock their phone in the Settings app, while iPhone users need to contact T-Mobile.

Can you unlock a phone without the carrier? ›

Yes, it is possible to unlock a phone without carrier permission. However, the process may be more difficult and may involve a fee. There are a few different ways to unlock a phone without carrier permission: Contacting a third-party unlocking service: There are many companies that specialize in unlocking phones.

How long does it take for device to be unlocked? ›

In reality, it takes to get your phone unlocked depends on your provider. But you should be mindful that you could be waiting for anything between a few days or up to 30 days for the process to be complete. To clarify your network's policy, check out our network-by-network guide below.

What is a network unlock code? ›

The Network Unlock Code (NUC), sometimes called a Network Unlock PIN (NUP) or Network Control Key (NCK), allows you to unlock a mobile phone from its original network. If you've not received a NUC you can request one.

Can a blacklisted IMEI be unlocked? ›

Does IMEI Blacklist Removal Really Work? Blacklisted devices cannot work again on any network unless you remove their IMEI report from the blacklist. In consequence, to remove a blacklist report you either have to do it with the carrier (T-Mobile, AT&T, as an example) or with a blacklist removal third-party service.

Where can I get my phone unlocked with IMEI number? ›

2.2 Unlock Phone Free with IMEI Number
CarrierPriceContact Info
Total WirelessFree1-866-663-3633
TracfoneFree1-800-867-7183
U.S. CellularFree1-888-944-9400
Ultra MobileN/A1-888-777-0446
19 more rows

Can I put a metro SIM card in a locked T-Mobile phone? ›

MetroPCS and T-Mobile may be related, but they do NOT operate as one carrier. You will need to get the phone unlocked.

Does T-Mobile accept carrier locked phones? ›

A device must be unlocked to be compatible with the T-Mobile network. Check out Unlock your mobile wireless device if needed. T-Mobile can't provide an unlock code, contact the original carrier to request an unlock code.

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