How to Unlock an AT&T Phone: Step-by-Step

Unlocking an AT&T phone lets you use it with other carriers, which is useful for traveling abroad or switching providers. This guide walks you through AT&T’s official unlock process, including eligibility checks, the online request form, and what to do if your request is denied. You’ll need your phone’s IMEI number and an AT&T account (or proof of purchase) to get started.

What You’ll Need

Your phone’s IMEI number (dial *#06# or find it in Settings > About Phone)
An AT&T account login (if you’re the account owner or an authorized user)
Proof of purchase if you bought the phone used or not from AT&T
The phone must be fully paid off and not reported lost or stolen

Step-by-Step

Check eligibility. AT&T requires that the phone is not active on a prepaid plan (for prepaid, it must be active for at least 6 months), is not reported lost or stolen, and has no outstanding installment payments. If you bought the phone from AT&T, it must be fully paid off.
Get your IMEI. Dial *#06# on your phone to display the IMEI number, or go to Settings > About Phone > Status. Write it down exactly as shown.
Go to AT&T’s unlock portal. Visit att.com/deviceunlock in a web browser. This is the official request page.
Sign in to your AT&T account. Use the wireless account owner’s or an authorized user’s credentials. If you don’t have an account, you can select the option for non-AT&T customers and provide proof of purchase.
Enter your IMEI. Type the IMEI number into the field. Double-check for typos—an incorrect IMEI will cause the request to fail.
Provide your contact info. Enter the email address and phone number associated with the account. You’ll receive updates there.
Submit the request. Click the submit button. AT&T typically processes requests within 2 business days, but it can take up to 5.
Check your email. AT&T will send an email confirming approval or denial. If approved, the email will contain instructions for your specific phone model.
Follow the unlock instructions. For iPhones, insert a non-AT&T SIM card; the phone will unlock automatically. For Android devices, you may need to enter an unlock code provided in the email, or use the app specified (e.g., the AT&T Device Unlock app for some models).
Insert a new SIM. After completing the steps, power off the phone, insert a SIM from another carrier, and power on. If it works, your phone is unlocked.

Common Mistakes

Requesting too early: Submitting before the phone is fully paid off or before the prepaid 6-month period ends will result in automatic denial.
Entering the wrong IMEI: A single digit error will cause failure. Always copy the IMEI from the phone’s settings, not from a sticker that might be faded.
Using a non-authorized account: If you’re not the account owner or an authorized user, AT&T will reject the request. You need the account holder to submit.
Skipping the final step: For iPhones, you must insert a non-AT&T SIM to trigger the unlock. Some people think the email confirmation is enough—it’s not.
Ignoring the unlock code entry: On Android, you may be prompted to enter a code when you insert a foreign SIM. If you skip it, the phone stays locked.

Tips

Do this before you travel: Request the unlock at least a week before you leave to allow processing time.
Keep your proof of purchase: If you bought the phone second-hand, AT&T may ask for a receipt or the original owner’s details. Save any documentation.
Use the AT&T Device Unlock app: For many Android phones, AT&T provides a dedicated app that automates the unlock process. Check the Play Store for it.
Back up your data: Before inserting a new SIM, back up your contacts and media in case the phone resets.
Contact AT&T support if stuck: If your request is approved but the phone still won’t unlock, call AT&T customer service. They can push the unlock remotely or provide a manual code.

Troubleshooting

Request denied: If AT&T denies your request, they’ll usually state the reason (e.g., device not eligible, account mismatch). Fix the issue and resubmit. For example, if the phone isn’t paid off, you’ll need to pay the remaining balance first.

Email not received: Check your spam folder. If it’s not there, wait 5 business days. You can also log into the unlock portal to check the status of your request.

Unlock code not working: Enter the code carefully; you have a limited number of attempts (usually 10). If it fails, contact AT&T for a replacement code.

Phone still locked after following steps: For iPhones, try restoring the phone via iTunes/Finder (this can refresh the carrier lock status). For Android, ensure you’re using a SIM from a different carrier—not just a different AT&T SIM.

Prepaid phone: If you have a prepaid AT&T phone, it must have been active for at least 6 months. If you meet that, submit the request; if denied, contact prepaid support.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does AT&T take to unlock a phone? AT&T says up to 2 business days, but it can take up to 5. You’ll receive an email once it’s done.

Can I unlock an AT&T phone if I’m not the original owner? Yes, but you’ll need to provide proof of purchase and the phone must meet all eligibility requirements.

Is unlocking legal? Yes, in the United States, unlocking your phone is legal under the Unlocking Consumer Choice and Wireless Competition Act.

Will unlocking my phone affect its warranty? No, AT&T will not void your warranty for unlocking. However, if you have software issues, AT&T may still help.

Can I unlock a phone that’s still under a payment plan? No, the phone must be fully paid off. You can pay off the remaining balance early to become eligible.

What if my phone is reported lost or stolen? AT&T will not unlock it. You’ll need to resolve the status with AT&T first.

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