A SIM PIN is a short four-digit code that locks your SIM, protecting the SIM from unauthorized use. Simply put, until you enter the SIM PIN to unlock the SIM, calls stay blocked, texts won’t go through and mobile data won’t connect. However, even on the same iPhone, we need to re-enter the SIM PIN after a device restart or swapping SIMs.
So, what if you don’t know your SIM PIN because you just purchased it or for other reasons? Don’t worry, we’ll show you how to find the SIM PIN on iPhone in this guide. And if you’d like to change it, turn it off or unlock it, we’ll walk you through those steps too. Finally, for anyone stuck with a carrier lock(SIM lock) on iPhone, we’ll also explain how to remove it with Passixer iPhone Unlocker.
How to Find SIM PIN on iPhone
Here’s everything on how to find the SIM PIN when your iPhone asks for it.
What Is the Default SIM PIN Code for iPhone?
Carriers often set a default SIM PIN for each SIM, though the code changes, depending on the network. In the US:
- Verizon and AT&T typically use 1111.
- Sprint often defaults to 1234.
- Some carriers also use 0000.
Across many LTE SIMs worldwide, 1111 is common. GSM SIMs usually fall back to 1234.
Since you only get 3 attempts before the SIM blocks itself, always confirm the default PIN first.
Steps to Locate SIM PIN on iPhone via Carrier App
Many carriers list the default SIM PIN in their app or on their website. The process is fairly similar and here’s an example with the MyVerizon app from Verizon in the US:
Step 1. Log into your MyVerizon dashboard.
Step 2. Go to Accounts > My Devices > Devices Overview.
Step 3. Under your mobile number, tap Manage.
Step 4. In the Device Management section, you’ll see both your SIM PIN and the PUK code.
Tip: Get iPhone SIM PIN Without Carrier App
If you can’t log into the carrier app or website, there are two quick alternatives:
1. Call Your Carrier
Most carriers can tell you the SIM PIN over the phone after verifying your identity. Here are the phone numbers of major carriers in US:
Customer Support Number
1-800-922-0204
1-800-331-0500
1-800-937-8997
1-888-211-4727
2. Check SIM Packaging
Look at the card or packaging your SIM came in. Many carriers print the default SIM PIN and PUK code directly on it.
How to Change SIM PIN on iPhone
As long as you already know your current SIM PIN, you can change it directly in the Settings app. Here’s how:
Step 1. Launch the Settings app. Scroll and tap Cellular (on some models, it will be called Mobile Data or Mobile Service).
Step 2. Select SIM PIN.
Note: If you’re using more than one SIM line, first tap the desired SIM card. Then select SIM PIN.
Step 3. Tap Change PIN. Enter the current code to move forward.
Step 4. Type in your new 4-digit PIN and tap the checkmark to continue.
Step 5. Re-enter the same new PIN again and confirm with the checkmark icon.
Now, your SIM PIN has been changed.
How to Turn off/Remove SIM PIN on iPhone
Although leaving the SIM PIN on adds security, you can switch it off if it feels like a hassle. After removing SIM PIN, you won’t have to type the code each time you restart your iPhone or swap SIMs. However, keep in mind that you’ll need to confirm this turn-off action with the current PIN.
From the same menu where you change SIM PIN, follow the steps below to remove the lock PIN from your SIM:
Step 1. Tap the toggle beside SIM PIN instead.
Step 2. Enter your four-digit SIM PIN and hit Done at the top.The switch will change from green to grey.
Simply restart your iPhone and it won’t ask for a SIM PIN anymore.
How to Unlock SIM PIN on iPhone
After 3 wrong attempts with the SIM PIN, your iPhone will block the SIM. Instead, the device will then ask for a PUK code to unblock your SIM and make you network work again.
Step 1. First, you will have to get the PUK code and here are some ways.
- Call your carrier’s customer support (you’ll need to verify your identity).
- Check the original SIM card packaging.
- Log in to the carrier’s app or website where the PUK is usually listed.
Step 2. Once you have the code, restart the iPhone or toggle Airplane mode on and off to bring up the Enter PUK prompt. Finally, enter the PUK code.
That’s it! The SIM will be available again. At the same time, you’ll be asked to set a new SIM PIN and you can create one now.
Bonus: How to Unlock SIM Lock on iPhone
Up to now, we have talked about the SIM PIN. However, there’s another SIM restriction that many confuse with the PIN, namely SIM Lock.
Difference Between SIM Lock and SIM PIN
If your iPhone refuses to work with any SIM other than the one it came with, then your device has a SIM lock.
If your iPhone is SIM locked, it won’t show you a PIN-entry screen. Instead, you’ll see messages like “No SIM”, “Invalid SIM”, or “SIM Not Supported”.
To clear that confusion better, here’s a quick comparison:
SIM PIN
SIM Lock (Carrier Lock)
A 4-digit code that protects your SIM from unauthorized use.
A restriction put in place by your carrier to limit the phone to their network.
You can obtain it without contacting your carrier.
SIM PIN can be changed or disabled yourself.
Need the help from carrier or specialized tool to remove it.
Until the PIN is removed, that locked SIM won’t work on any iPhone. However, you can use other unlocked SIMs on your iPhone.
Until your iPhone is free from SIM lock, you can only use the original carrier’s SIM. Other SIMs will always be blocked.
What You Need for Unlocking iPhone SIM Lock
To put it simply, Unlocking your iPhone’s SIM lock gives you more freedom. For example, you can swap to a cheaper plan with another carrier or insert a local SIM when you travel abroad. Without SIM lock removal, your iPhone will only run on the original network. So, if you want the choice of using any SIM card, you’ll have to remove the SIM Lock.
1. Passixer iPhone Unlocker
Passixer iPhone Unlocker is built to remove SIM lock from your iPhone with the least conditions and efforts. You don’t have to worry about which carrier your iPhone is tied to — Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T or any other provider around the world, this software is developed to work with popular network providers.
What makes it useful is that you don’t have to meet carrier requirements or wait days for approval. You simply install the program on your computer, connect your iPhone and let it run. Within around half an hour, the SIM lock will be gone.
2. A Computer with Network Connection
Since Passixer runs on a desktop, you’ll need a computer to use it. The network connection is important because the software has to verify and sync with the device during the unlock.
3. A Workable USB Cable
During the unlock, your iPhone must stay connected to the computer the entire time. So, using a stable cable ensures there are no interruptions.
Steps to Remove SIM Lock from iPhone with Passixer
Once you’ve seen why removing the SIM lock matters, here’s exactly what you need to do it with Passixer:
Click Remove SIM Lock in Passixer
Launch Passixer iPhone Unlocker on your computer and then click Remove SIM Lock on the main screen.
Allow Passixer to Detect Your iPhone
Plug your iPhone into the computer using your USB cable. When your phone asks, tap Trust on the screen. Also, click Start on the software interface.
Jailbreak Your iPhone Step by Step
Follow the guide to jailbreak your iPhone. When it’s completed, choose Next.
Start iPhone SIM Lock Removal
Confirm your device info when Passixer displays it. Then hit Start SIM Lock Removal.
Modify Wi-Fi Settings and Re-insert SIM Card
Remove SIM from your iPhone, forget all Wi-Fi networks and turn Wi-Fi fully off in Settings. Next install the SIM on your device again and hit OK in Passixer to proceed.
Your iPhone Is Unlocked for Using a Different Carrier
Sit tight while the tool works. Soon, you’ll see “SIM Lock Removed Successfully”, meaning that your iPhone is now unlocked and ready for the inserted new SIM.
External Tip: How to Lock SIM Card on iPhone
To set up a new SIM PIN on your iPhone to protect your SIM:
Step 1. Tap Cellular (Mobile Data or Mobile Service).
Step 2. Tap SIM PIN.
Step 3. Switch the SIM PIN option on. A keypad will appear asking you to create a four-digit code.
Step 4. Set a secure one and hit Done at the top right. Your SIM PIN is active now.
Conclusion
So that wraps it up. By now, you know how to find the SIM PIN, how to change it and how to turn it off when it gets in the way.
If the problem is not the SIM PIN but a full SIM lock, that’s where Passixer iPhone Unlocker comes in. It carrier unlocks your iPhone in about 30–40 minutes, so your iPhone is ready to work with your wanted SIM and mobile plan you choose.