Everything you need to unlock your AT&T device — from eligibility requirements to step-by-step instructions for every phone type. 100% free through the official portal.
TL;DR – Quick Answer
Free unlock: AT&T unlocks eligible devices for free at att.com/deviceunlock
Eligibility: Device active 60+ days (postpaid) or 6 months (prepaid), paid in full, not reported lost/stolen
iPhone, Samsung, Google: Eligible devices unlock automatically — no request needed!
Processing time: Typically 1-2 business days (up to 48 hours)
Check status: Visit AT&T device unlock status with your IMEI and request number
📋AT&T Unlock Eligibility Requirements
Before you can unlock your AT&T device, you’ll need to meet specific eligibility criteria. AT&T has streamlined their policies in 2026, making it easier than ever to unlock your phone. Here’s what you need to know:
Postpaid devices must be active for 60+ days. Prepaid devices require 6 months of paid service.
Your device balance must be zero. Complete all installment payments before requesting unlock.
No past-due balances on your AT&T account. Bills must be current.
Device hasn’t been reported lost, stolen, or involved in fraud.
Any service agreement or term contract must be fulfilled.
The device must have been originally sold by AT&T.
Active military personnel can unlock devices without completing installment plans or contracts. Simply email your TCS (Temporary Change of Station) or PCS (Permanent Change of Station) documents to AT&T for eligibility verification.
AT&T monitors unlock requests. If more than 100 requests come from a single source in one month with over 10% duplicate IMEI numbers, AT&T will stop processing requests from that source. Stick to legitimate personal requests only.
AT&T Unlock iPhone
Great news for iPhone users: AT&T has made the unlocking process incredibly simple. Eligible iPhones can unlock automatically without any manual request needed, and when you do need to submit a request, no unlock code is required.
If you have an eligible iPhone on an AT&T Wireless postpaid plan and meet all requirements, your device may unlock automatically — no request needed! Your iPhone will simply unlock on its own once you’ve had it for 60 days and paid it off completely.
How to Check if Your iPhone is Unlocked
Go to Settings on your iPhone and tap “General”
Scroll down and tap “About”
Look for “Carrier Lock” — if it says “No SIM restrictions,” your iPhone is already unlocked!
How to Unlock AT&T iPhone (If Not Automatic)
Go to att.com/deviceunlock and click “Start an unlock request”
Find your IMEI by dialing *#06# or in Settings → General → About
Follow the prompts and submit. You’ll receive confirmation via email or text.
Once approved, connect your iPhone to Wi-Fi. The unlock activates automatically — no code needed!
Insert a SIM card from another carrier to verify the unlock worked.
Supported Models: All iPhone models including iPhone 17, 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, 11, SE, and older versions are supported for AT&T unlock.
Note: iPads and Apple Watches come unlocked by default and don’t require any unlock process.
📱AT&T Unlock Samsung
Samsung Galaxy devices follow a slightly different unlock process than iPhones. While eligible Samsung phones can also unlock automatically, many require an unlock code to complete the process.
For newer Samsung devices, checking unlock status is simple:
For older Samsung devices, check unlock status this way:
How to Unlock Samsung with Unlock Code
Submit an unlock request at att.com/deviceunlock with your IMEI number
AT&T will email or text you the unlock code within 1-2 business days
Turn off your Samsung phone completely
Remove AT&T SIM and insert a SIM card from another carrier
Power on and enter the unlock code when prompted. You’ll see “SIM Network unlocked” upon success.
You only get 5 tries to enter the unlock code correctly. After that, your device may become permanently unable to unlock. Double-check each digit before entering!
Supported Models: Galaxy S25, S24, S23, S22, S21 series, Z Fold, Z Flip series, A-series, Note series, and all other AT&T Samsung devices.
📲AT&T Unlock Motorola
Motorola devices from AT&T follow a straightforward unlock process using an unlock code. The process is similar to Samsung devices but with Motorola-specific steps.
How to Unlock AT&T Motorola Phone
Go to att.com/deviceunlock and submit your request with your Motorola’s IMEI
AT&T processes requests within 1-2 business days. Check your email and texts for the unlock code.
Turn off your Motorola, remove the AT&T SIM, and insert a SIM from another carrier
Power on the device. When prompted, enter the SIM network unlock PIN provided by AT&T
Your Motorola will display a success message once unlocked
Supported Models: Motorola Edge series, Moto G series, Moto E series, Razr, and all other AT&T Motorola devices.
AT&T Unlock Other Android Phones
AT&T provides unlock support for over 30 device manufacturers beyond Samsung and Motorola. Here’s what you need to know about unlocking other Android devices.
Eligible Google Pixel devices may unlock automatically like iPhones. Otherwise, follow the standard unlock code process.
LG phones require unlock codes. Insert non-AT&T SIM, power on, and enter the SIM network unlock PIN when prompted.
OnePlus devices follow standard Android unlock procedures. Submit request, receive code, and enter when prompted.
ZTE, Alcatel, Nokia, HTC, Sony, Kyocera, and more — all follow similar unlock code procedures.
att.com/deviceunlock📝AT&T Unlock Request Process
Submitting an AT&T unlock request is straightforward and can be done online in just a few minutes. Here’s the complete process:
Before You Start
Make sure you have:
*#06# or find in Settings → About PhoneStep-by-Step Request Process
Visit att.com/deviceunlock in your browser
Click the button to begin the unlock request process
Select “Yes” if you’re a current AT&T customer, or “No” if you’re not (both options work!)
Input the 15-digit IMEI number for your device
Enter your email address and/or phone number for notifications
Review your information and submit. If not an AT&T customer, confirm your request via the email link provided.
No problem! You can still unlock an AT&T device that meets all requirements by submitting an unlock request. You’ll just need the device’s IMEI number and information about the original purchase. This is great for buying used AT&T phones!
After Submitting Your Request
🌐AT&T Unlock Portal
The AT&T Device Unlock Portal is your one-stop destination for all unlock-related actions. Here’s everything you can do through the portal:
Start a new unlock request for any AT&T device with your IMEI number
Track the progress of your existing unlock request
Get device-specific unlock instructions for your manufacturer
Lost your unlock code? Submit a new request to get it resent
AT&T Prepaid Unlock App
If you have an AT&T Prepaid device, check if the AT&T Prepaid Unlock App is pre-installed on your phone. This app allows you to easily request an unlock straight from your device if you meet eligibility requirements. If the app isn’t available, use the online portal instead.
🔍AT&T Unlock Status — How to Check
After submitting your unlock request, you’ll want to track its progress. Here are all the ways to check your AT&T unlock status:
Method 1: Online Status Portal
Provide your IMEI number and unlock request number (from confirmation email)
See whether your request is pending, approved, or denied
Method 2: Check in AT&T Account
If you’re an AT&T customer, sign in to your account at att.com and look for your device. If unlocked, it will say “Device unlocked” under the device’s wireless number.
Method 3: Check on Your Device
Method 4: Insert Different SIM
The most reliable test — insert a SIM card from another carrier (like T-Mobile or Verizon). If your phone works with it, you’re unlocked! If you see “SIM not compatible” or similar message, the device is still locked.
🔢AT&T Unlock Code
Not all devices need an unlock code. Here’s what you need to know about AT&T unlock codes:
No Code Needed
iPhones unlock automatically over Wi-Fi after approval. No code entry required.
Code Required
Most Samsung devices need an unlock code entered after inserting a non-AT&T SIM.
Code Required
Motorola, LG, OnePlus, and most Android phones require an unlock code.
How to Enter Your Unlock Code
Most devices only allow 5-10 attempts to enter the unlock code correctly. After exceeding this limit, your device may become permanently locked to AT&T and unable to be unlocked by any carrier. Take your time and double-check each digit!
Lost Your Unlock Code?
No problem! Simply submit a new unlock request at att.com/deviceunlock and AT&T will resend your unlock code. There’s no limit to how many times you can request the code to be resent.
🆓AT&T Unlock Free
Yes, AT&T unlocks eligible devices completely free of charge! There’s no fee to unlock your phone through AT&T’s official portal. Here’s what makes this possible:
AT&T provides free unlocking for all eligible devices through their Device Unlock Portal. This is the safest, most reliable, and legally compliant way to unlock your AT&T phone. No hidden fees, no third-party services needed.
Why AT&T Offers Free Unlocking
What About Third-Party Unlock Services?
While third-party services exist, they often charge $20-100 for something AT&T does for free. Risks include:
Our recommendation: Always try AT&T’s free official unlock first. Only consider alternatives if your device truly doesn’t qualify for official unlocking.
Benefits of Unlocking Your AT&T Phone
Use local SIM cards abroad to avoid expensive roaming charges
Freedom to move to any GSM carrier like T-Mobile, Mint, etc.
Unlocked phones sell for more on the used market
Switch to whichever carrier has best coverage in your area
🆓AT&T Unlock Free
Here’s a quick comparison of unlock requirements and processes for different device types:
| Feature | iPhone | Samsung | Motorola | Other Android |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Automatic Unlock | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes* | ✗ No | Google Pixel only |
| Unlock Code Required | ✗ No | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Code Entry Attempts | N/A | 5 attempts | 5 attempts | 5-10 attempts |
| Postpaid Wait Time | 60 days | 60 days | 60 days | 60 days |
| Prepaid Wait Time | 6 months | 6 months | 6 months | 6 months |
| Cost | FREE | FREE | FREE | FREE |
| Processing Time | Instant – 48hrs | 1-2 business days | 1-2 business days | 1-2 business days |
| Unlock Method | Wi-Fi activation | Code entry | Code entry | Code entry |
Eligible Samsung devices on AT&T Wireless plans may unlock automatically when all requirements are met.
Account Type Comparison
| Requirement | Postpaid | Prepaid | Business |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active Service Period | 60 days | 6 months | 60 days |
| Device Paid Off | ✓ Required | ✓ Required | ✓ Required |
| Account Current | ✓ Required | 6 mo. paid service | ✓ Required |
| Early Upgrade Wait | 14 days | N/A | 30 days |
| Company Permission | Not needed | Not needed | ✓ Required |
Ready to Unlock Your AT&T Phone?
Visit the official AT&T Device Unlock Portal to get started — it’s free and takes just minutes!
Most unlock requests are processed within 1-2 business days, though it can take up to 48 hours. Eligible iPhones, Samsung, and Google Pixel devices may unlock automatically and instantly once requirements are met. Complex cases requiring additional verification may take 5-7 business days.
Yes! AT&T provides free unlocking for all eligible devices through their official Device Unlock Portal at att.com/deviceunlock. There are no fees charged by AT&T for this service. Avoid third-party services that charge for something AT&T does for free.
No, you don’t need an active AT&T account! As long as the device meets all eligibility requirements, anyone can submit an unlock request. This is particularly helpful if you bought a used AT&T phone or received one as a gift.
If denied, review the eligibility criteria to identify what requirement you’re missing. Common reasons include: device not paid off, active less than 60 days (postpaid) or 6 months (prepaid), past-due account balance, or device reported lost/stolen. Address the issue and submit a new request.
No, unlocking your phone through AT&T’s official process will NOT void your warranty. This is the safe, legal, and carrier-approved method. Only unofficial third-party unlocking methods could potentially affect your warranty.
Absolutely! Unlocking your phone simply removes the carrier restriction — it doesn’t affect your AT&T service at all. You can continue using AT&T as normal, or switch to another carrier whenever you choose. The unlock is permanent.
Unfortunately, if you exceed the code entry limit (usually 5 attempts), your device may become permanently unable to be unlocked. This is why it’s crucial to double-check each digit before entering. Contact AT&T customer support to discuss potential options, though recovery is often not possible.
The easiest way is to dial *#06# on your phone — the IMEI will display instantly. Alternatively, go to Settings → About Phone (or General → About on iPhone) and look for IMEI. It’s also printed on the original box and sometimes inside the SIM tray area.
No, iPhones don’t require unlock codes. Once AT&T approves your unlock request, simply connect your iPhone to Wi-Fi and the unlock activates automatically. Insert a new carrier’s SIM card to verify it worked.
Yes, but prepaid devices require 6 months of active paid service (compared to 60 days for postpaid). Check if your device has the AT&T Prepaid Unlock App pre-installed — if so, you can request the unlock directly through the app. Otherwise, use the online portal.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by AT&T Inc. All trademarks, logos, and brand names are the property of their respective owners. Unlock policies and requirements may change without notice — always verify current eligibility at AT&T’s official website. We recommend using only official carrier unlock methods to avoid potential risks to your device or warranty.
