How To Activate a New Unlocked Phone on Verizon
What is Verizon?
Verizon is an American wireless network operator that previously operated as a separate division of Verizon Communications under the name Verizon Wireless.
How To Activate a New Unlocked Phone on Verizon
It’s easy to activate, change or replace your device on an existing line with My Verizon. Go to verizon.com and sign in to your My Verizon account. From your account overview, select Manage all devices. To continue changing a device on an existing line, select Activate your own device.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you activate an unlocked phone on Verizon?
Through the BYOD program, you can activate a Verizon Wireless 4G LTE or compatible unlocked phone on a monthly plan. Be sure your device is unlocked if you are transferring from another carrier.
How do you activate a new Verizon phone by yourself?
How do I activate a phone I purchased from Verizon or a Verizon Authorized Retailer? When you order a new phone from us, it will be ready to activate when you turn it on. Simply follow the steps on your screen to complete activation and set up your iPhone®, Android™ or prepaid device.
Can I just put my SIM card in an unlocked phone and use it?
If the new phone is from a different carrier than the SIM you have, the SIM may still work if the phone is carrier-unlocked. But if the phone is locked to a specific carrier or account, you’ll need to have the carrier unlock the phone.
Do I need a Verizon SIM card for an unlocked phone?
What is the difference between having a locked device and an unlocked device? A locked device is one that will only work with a Verizon SIM on Verizon’s network. An unlocked device can be used with non-Verizon SIM cards on a network compatible carrier’s domestic or international network.
Can I use my Verizon SIM card in another unlocked phone?
Yes. Your phone’s SIM card (or eSIM profile) is associated with a carrier, plan and billing account.
What number do I dial to activate my Verizon phone?
You may be prompted for this number during the activation process. Call (800) 837-4966. This is Verizon’s Customer Service number, and the customer service rep can activate your phone for you. You may need to give your IMEI number as well as prove that you are the account holder.
How long does it take to activate a phone Verizon?
This process may take 2-3 minutes. If the activation fails, view this support info.
What network does Verizon use?
Code-division multiple access (CDMA)
Code-division multiple access (CDMA) is used mainly in the US. Verizon uses CDMA technology and is the largest wireless carrier in the US, but CDMA’s market share around the world is estimated to be less than 20%.
How do I activate a phone I bought online?
The process is slightly different per carrier, but generally you will need to log in, select the line you are activating a device on, and then enter the IMEI number for the phone you are activating. If you’re activating a prepaid plan online, you will likely need to enter an Activation Code.
How do I activate my Verizon prepaid SIM card?
To activate a SIM card on a new Verizon prepaid account:
- Turn on your new phone.
- Select New customer.
- Follow the onscreen prompts to connect your phone to your Verizon account.
- Make a call from your phone to complete the activation.