How to Get an Unlock Code From AT&T
By Mandy Slake
AT&T Wireless sells phones that are locked to the carrier's network. If you try to use another carrier's SIM card in an AT&T cellphone, the device will prompt you for an unlock code. The unlock code is based on the phone's IMEI serial number. You can purchase the code from an unlocking service, but it's not necessary. AT&T will give you the unlock code as long as the carrier has the code, the phone is not exclusive to AT&T and your account meets certain criteria based on the type of account.
Step 1
Dial "*#06#" on your phone to display the IMEI number.
Step 2
Contact AT&T at 800-331-0500.
Step 3
Select the option to speak with customer care.
Step 4
Validate your account with the customer care agent. The agent may ask you to supply a password on the account.
Step 5
Advise the agent you would like an unlock code for your phone. Give the agent the IMEI number, and the agent will provide the unlock code.
References
Tips
- Postpaid accounts must be active for at least 90 days. The account must be current and in good standing. Prepaid accounts must be active for at least six months.
- If you bought the phone outright, AT&T will give you the unlock code if you can provide a receipt or proof of purchase.
Warnings
- AT&T will not provide unlock codes for the iPhone or phones sold exclusively by AT&T.