How to Unlock a T-Mobile Phone

Unlock your T-Mobile phone for a different carrier.
Ash Ash (362)
5 minutes

Some T-Mobile phones can be unlocked for use with other carriers. If your phone is compatible, all you need is a new SIM card and an unlock code. T-Mobile uses the GSM network and is compatible with AT&T, among other GSM carriers.

T-Mobile phone ×1

Howchoo is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a small affiliate commission at no cost to you when you buy through our links.

Only eligible T-Mobile devices can be unlocked to use with another carrier. Make sure your phone meets all of the following criteria:

  1. Your T-Mobile account must be in good standing.
  2. The phone must not be reported stolen or lost.
  3. The phone has been active with the T-Mobile network for 40 days at a minimum.
  4. The phone is paid for in full.

If you're not sure whether or not you qualify, log in to your T-Mobile account to find out.

An unlock code can only be requested by contacting T-Mobile. Only the billing party or authorized user is allowed to request an unlock code. There are two methods to initiate a request:

  1. Call T-Mobile customer support at 1-877-746-0909.
  2. Schedule a callback on the official website.

Each phone manufacturer has a unique process for opening the unlock code prompt. Here is a list of the most popular manufacturers and how to enter the unlock code on their phones.

Samsung

  1. Turn off the Samsung phone.
  2. Remove the case.
  3. Remove the battery.
  4. Remove the current SIM card
  5. Put a new one in its place.
  6. When you turn on the phone again, you will be prompted for the unlock code.

Apple

  1. Contact Sprint to request an unlock code for the iPhone.
  2. Turn the phone off.
  3. Remove the current SIM card.
  4. Put a new SIM card in its place.
  5. Power the iPhone.
  6. Your phone will need to be set up again for the first time.

Huawei

  1. Turn off the Huawei phone.
  2. Remove the case and battery.
  3. Remove the current SIM card.
  4. Put a new one in its place.
  5. Put the battery and case back on the phone.
  6. You will be prompted for the unlock code when your phone turns on.

Lenovo

  1. Turn the Lenovo phone off.
  2. Remove the SIM card from the side of the phone.
  3. Insert the new SIM card into the slot.
  4. Turn the phone back on.
  5. You will be prompted for the unlock code.

LG

  1. Turn off the phone.
  2. Remove the case.
  3. Remove the battery from the phone.
  4. Remove the SIM card.
  5. Insert a new SIM card.
  6. Turn on the LG phone again.
  7. Enter the unlock code.

If you run into any issues or have specific questions, you may want to reach out to T-Mobile customer support. Visit this support page or call the customer support team at 1-877-746-0909.

If you're in the process of leaving T-Mobile, you may want to double-check your final bill before you go. Check out our guide on how to check your T-Mobile bill balance.

Use your Sprint phone with another carrier.
Ash Ash (362)
15 minutes

Sprint phones can be unlocked to use with other carriers. Most devices launched by Sprint after February 2015 are automatically unlocked when they meet the eligibility requirements.