How to Activate an AT&T SIM Card: 9 Easy Steps (2024)

• When you buy a new phone with AT&T, the SIM or eSIM is already set up and activated.
• The easiest solution is to bring your phone to an AT&T store so they can find and input your SIM information.
• Alternatively, use your IMEI, SIM card number, and call AT&T to activate the new SIM card.

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1. 1

   Locate and/or write down your IMEI number. This is a special code connected to your phone, typically printed and clearly labeled on the packaging.^[1] If you don't have access to this number, you can get it by dialing *#06# on the phone's keypad.

   • If you have a phone that doesn't have a SIM slot, you have to get an eSIM. Go to https://m.att.com/myatt/native/deepLink.html?action=Overview&appInstall=N, sign in, scroll down to "My devices" and click Manage device next to the phone you're getting the eSIM for. Click Get new eSIM under "Options & settings." If you don't see the button to get a new eSIM, you already have one that's activated.

   See Also

   Activate New AT&T Prepaid® Service
2. 2

   Locate and/or write down your SIM card number. This is also known as an ICCID number and is printed on the SIM card next to "ICCID."

   • If you don't see "ICCID," it may be printed next to "CSN" or "EID."
   • You can avoid having to try and find this information by going to a local AT&T store and they will take care of the process.

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3. 3

   Turn off your phone or tablet. If you've already inserted the new SIM into your device, you can skip this and the next step.^[2]

4. 4

   Transfer a phone number from another provider (optional). If you're not transferring a phone number from another mobile provider (e.g., Verizon or T-Mobile), skip this step. If you are transferring a phone number, follow these steps to complete the transfer before you continue:

   • Go to https://www.att.com/checkmyorder/activations/activateDevice.rt in a browser.
   • Enter the phone number you want to transfer and the billing ZIP code.
   • Click Continue.
   • Provide the requested information and follow the on-screen instructions to activate your card.
5. 5

   Insert the SIM card. If you're not sure how to do this on your phone or tablet, visit AT&T's Device Support site in a web browser. Once you're there, select your model, click All Solutions, and then click Insert SIM Card for instructions.

6. 6

   Turn on your phone and make a test call. You should also try using the mobile internet service without Wi-Fi enabled. If you are able to do these things, your SIM card is active, and you can start setting up your voicemail. If not, continue with this method.^[3]

7. 7

   Go to https://www.att.com/shop/easyactivate/coamoffdevice/deviceinfo.html. This opens the SIM card activation site.

8. 8

   Enter the SIM and IMEI numbers and click Continue. The site will check your information and display instructions for your service and device.

9. 9

   Follow the on-screen instructions to activate the card. Once the SIM is active, you'll be able to place phone calls and use the internet.

   • If you're unable to activate the card online, you can give AT&T a call from a working phone or visit an authorized AT&T store during regular business hours.
   • AT&T support is available 24/7. If you're in the US, dial 1-800-331-0500. If you're outside of the US, dial 1-314-925-6925.^[4]
   • When you try to activate your device with a carrier, you plug in your SIM card. It automatically syncs with your carrier.
   • But sometimes there are apps, so the carrier might ask you for what SIM card you have. And instead of you using a tool to eject it, they'll show up as ICC ID settings.
   • You can find the ICC ID number within Settings by tapping on General > About. If you scroll down, you can see it.

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Co-authors: 7

Updated: April 16, 2023

Views:181,633

Categories: Telecommunications Service Providers