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AT&T IMEI Unlock Check: Eligibility, Requirements & How to Request

5 min readUpdated 6/1/2025

AT&T IMEI Unlock: How to Check Eligibility and Request an Unlock

AT&T locks devices to their network when sold on installment plans or under contract. Once the device is eligible, AT&T will unlock the IMEI so it can be used with any compatible carrier worldwide. This guide covers how to check if your AT&T phone qualifies and how to submit an unlock request.

AT&T Unlock Eligibility Requirements (2026)

AT&T's device unlock policy requires all of the following to be true:

  • The device was designed for use on the AT&T network
  • The device has been active on the AT&T network for at least 60 days
  • The account associated with the device is in good standing (no past-due balance)
  • The device installment plan (Next/Next Every Year) is fully paid off
  • The device is not reported as lost, stolen, or involved in fraud
  • No more than 5 unlock requests have been submitted on the account in the past 12 months

How to Check If Your AT&T Phone IMEI Is Eligible for Unlock

  1. Find your IMEI by dialing *#06# or going to Settings → General → About (iPhone) or Settings → About Phone (Android).
  2. Run an IMEI check at imeicheckpro.com — the carrier lock check shows whether your device is locked to AT&T and whether it is currently marked as eligible for unlock.
  3. Alternatively, log in to your AT&T account online or in the myAT&T app → select your device → "Manage Device" → "Unlock Device" — eligible devices will show an unlock option.

How to Request an AT&T Unlock

Method 1 — Online (fastest):

  1. Go to att.com/deviceunlock
  2. Select device type (smartphone, tablet, etc.)
  3. Enter your IMEI number and email address
  4. AT&T will send an email within 2 business days confirming the unlock

Method 2 — myAT&T app: Account → Device Options → Unlock Device

Method 3 — Customer service: Call 1-800-331-0500 with your IMEI and account details

AT&T Unlock for Military Deployment

AT&T has a special unlock policy for active military personnel being deployed internationally. The 60-day active service requirement may be waived with valid deployment orders. Contact AT&T customer service directly with documentation.

After AT&T Approves Your Unlock

For iPhones: connect to Wi-Fi and complete a backup/restore in iTunes or Finder, or perform a factory reset. The unlock is pushed via Apple's activation servers. For Android: insert a non-AT&T SIM card and follow the on-screen unlock prompts. Some Android devices require a network unlock code sent by AT&T.

Troubleshooting: AT&T Says My Device Is Not Eligible

  • Still on installment plan: Log into myAT&T → Billing → View Device Installments to see remaining balance. Pay it off to become eligible.
  • Account not in good standing: Pay any outstanding balance first.
  • Device not active 60 days: Wait until 60-day requirement is met from first activation date.
  • Device reported stolen: If you believe this is an error, contact AT&T fraud department at 1-800-635-6840.