How to Activate an iPhone with AT&T

Co-authored by wikiHow Staff

Last Updated: February 19, 2020 Tested

This wikiHow teaches you how to activate an iPhone or SIM card online if you purchased it with a new AT&T wireless account, as an upgrade to an existing account, or to be used with a newly added line to your account. You will need to call AT&T or visit an AT&T store to speak with a representative if your account has not been configured to add or upgrade a new device.^{[1]
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Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

On AT&T's Website

1
Go to https://www.att.com/activations/.^{[2]
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2
Click on Activate your device.

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3
Enter your wireless number.
4
Enter your billing zip code.
5
Click on Continue. Follow the on-screen prompts to proceed with activation.
6
Locate your iPhone's IMEI number. The IMEI number is usually printed on the back of the iPhone's packaging. It's printed on a white sticker with barcodes and is often labeled "IMEI/MEID." You can also access the IMEI number by dialing *#06#. It's also available via your iPhone's settings:
- Tap the Settings app
  .
- Tap
  General.
- Tap About.
7
Enter and verify your IMEI number. When asked, input your IMEI number and verify that it matches the one listed on the AT&T site associated with your account.
8
Restart your iPhone. Once finished with the online activation prompts, hold down the Sleep/Wake button until you see "slide to power off" on your screen, then slide the power button to the right. Wait 5 minutes and then press and hold the Sleep/Wake button until you see the Apple logo. Your iPhone should be activated on the AT&T network.
- If you could not complete the activation online, you will need to call AT&T's customer support or visit an AT&T store to talk with an AT&T representative to finish activating your iPhone.

Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Over the Phone

1
Call 1-800-331-0500. From a separate working telephone, dial 1-800-331-0500 and wait until you are connected to AT&T's customer support line.
2
Say "I would like to activate my iPhone," when prompted. When you call, an automated system will ask "How can I help you today?". Speak clearly and say that you would like to activate your iPhone.
3
Say the phone number of your AT&T account. When asked "what number are you calling to activate," say your phone number clearly. This will help the automated system to access your account information.
4
Confirm the phone number. The automated system will say the phone number back to you and you can confirm "Yes" or "No" if it's correct.
5
Talk with a representative. After confirming your number, you will be connected with an AT&T representative who will help you complete the activation process for your iPhone.

Community Q&A

Question

How do I unlock an iPhone 5s country code?

Community Answer

You'll need to contact your carrier in order to unlock the device for international use. Once they've unlocked the device, you'll need to restore it in order for the changes to take effect. Make sure you have a backup!
Question

How do you move an old mobile number to a new iPhone?

Community Answer

Just go to your wireless provider and ask to transfer your number to your new phone.