How to Unlock a SIM Card with or Without PUK Code

Samuel Spenser Published on October 08, 2024Unlock Android3-min reading

SIM lock is a software-based restriction implemented by a network provider. It is used to prevent a phone from working without permission or switching to another carrier. If your handset is SIM locked, it will only function as you wish after entering the correct unlock code. Considering the process of unlocking is a bit complicated, this guide tells you four ways to unlock SIM card in a variety of situations.

Part 1: Common Ways to Unlock SIM

A SIM lock or SIM PIN is usually a four-digit number used to unlock a physical SIM card. When you insert the card into a new phone or use another carrier on your phone, you have to enter a code to unlock your SIM card. Here are three common ways:

Way 1: How to Unlock SIM Card with PUK Code

If you enter the wrong SIM card unlock PIN too many times, your card will be locked. To unlock it, you have to use the PUK code. Generally speaking, it is an eight-digit number and you can find it on the back of your SIM card.

Note: You usually have ten attempts to enter the right PUK code when unlocking a SIM card for free.

Way 2: How to Unlock SIM by Request on Carrier Website

Another way to get a SIM unlock code is through the website of your carrier. AT&T, for example, delivers the PUK code through your account. Moreover, some carriers provide the unlock code in their apps.

Note: Some carriers deliver the unlock code in an app, such as the QLink SIM unlock code can be found in the QLink My Account app

Way 3: How to Unlock SIM via Contact Customer Service

If you hope to unlock your SIM card without a PUK code, you will need to contact your carrier's customer service or go to the nearest store of your network provider. Be aware that the customer service may ask for your phone number, contact information, and social number. The customer numbers of the major network providers:

Verizon: 800-922-0204

AT&T: 800-331-0500

T-Mobile: 877-453-1304

U.S. Cellular: 888-944-9400

Mint Mobile: 800-683-7392

Part 2: How to Unlock Android SIM without PUK Code Online

An unlock service online is another way to unlock a SIM card and switch to another carrier. There are oceans of unlock services on the market, but only a few can effectively get the job done and deliver a high success rate, such as DoctorSIM, DirectUnlocks, UnlockBase, Official SIM Unlock, and more. If you wish to unlock your Android SIM, you'd better look for a reputable service. We use Official SIM Unlock as an example to show you the workflow below.

Tip: To find the IMEI number, open the Phone app on your device, dial *#06#, and tap the Call button. Or you can find it in the About or About Phone screen in the Settings app.

Recommend: Best Android Screen Unlocker

Unlock SIM won't let you regain access to your phone if you forgot the lock screen password. If your Android phone is locked out, you will need an Android screen unlocking tool, such as iToolab UnlockGo (Android). It is not only easy to use but also works quickly. The concise design makes it a good choice for average people to unlock their Android devices.

Key Features of Android Screen Unlock Software

1. Remove Android screen locks within three steps.

2. Support passwords, PINs, patterns, fingerprint, etc.

3. Bypass Google FRP on Android phones and tablets.

4. Compatible with a wide range of Android phone models.

Conclusion

This guide has demonstrated how to unlock a SIM card with or without a PUK code. With the PUK code on your SIM card, you can unlock it directly. The carrier's website or app also offers an unlock code for your SIM card. You can also contact your carrier's customer service to unlock your card. An online SIM unlocker is another option. If you have other questions about this topic, please write them down below.