Request an unlock code. Most Verizon phones are unlocked automatically after 60 days of purchasing. If yours isn't, you can use an unlock code to use the SIM card from your new carrier. If you're not sure which unlock code to use, try using one of these default codes: 000000. Unlocking your phone allows you to switch your service provider but keep your same phone, saving you money. We’ll unlock your phone immediately, regardless o.
Verizon is one of the largest wireless service providers in the world and, as such, has a pretty strong grip on the mobile space. Indeed, it has had its share of exclusive phones over the years.
Why do carriers lock phones?
One of the main reasons that carriers lock phones down is to get customers to purchase device through them. In some cases you’ll find a particular model that’s exclusive to a network. In other words, you must buy the phone through that provider if you want to use it. Another reason for locking is to prevent fraud and mitigate theft.
READ:Where can I buy an unlocked phone?
The concept of exclusive phones was much bigger a few years back but it still happens from time to time with the top carriers. The Motorola Droid line is an example Verizon exclusivity. Nevertheless, you have the right to unlock your phone.
Why unlock a Verizon phone?
While Verizon phones operate on a CDMA it does offer dual CDMA/GSM devices, meaning international coverage is potentially an option. Unlocking a Verizon phone gives you freedom to take it to prepaid and MVNO brands like GreatCall, Net10, Staight Talk, Total Wireless, and Visible.
Also worth noting, you should still be able to use an unlocked Verizon LTE phone on AT&T or T-Mobile — or their MVNO brands. More and more we’re finding their handsets to be compatible with both carriers’ LTE bands.
READ:Cheap phone plans that use Verizon’s network
Unlocking Verizon phones: Prerequisites
Verizon makes it very easy to unlock your phone. In fact, as of summer 2019 it automatically unlocks its customer’s devices after 60 days as long as certain criteria is met. There are a few things you should know need to do first. Before unlocking, ensure the following is in order.
- You are 60 days after phone purchase
- The phone must not be reported as stolen, lost, or associated with fraud
How to unlock your Verizon phone
Okay, so this one is pretty much a non-starter. As long as you adhere to the aforementioned details, you should have no problem with getting your device unlocked. But, if you have any issues, reach out to Verizon for help.
In the event you have a phone that was purchased prior to July 2019, it may already be unlocked. Simply put in a SIM card from a different carrier and you’ll know whether it is. If not, give Verizon a ring and you’ll be just fine.
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Even though Verizon is one of America’s leading carriers, it’s not for everyone. Whether it’s the cost or the coverage in your area, you might be considering a switch to a different network. But what happens if you love the phone you have? Or maybe you can’t afford to purchase a new one? There’s no need to worry — here’s all you need to know on how to unlock a Verizon phone.
See also: The best Verizon phones to spend your money on
The process varies from carrier to carrier, but luckily it’s pretty straightforward with Verizon. However, Verizon is a CDMA network, so you’ll have to carefully check your phone’s compatibility with other networks. Competitors like AT&T and T-Mobile are GSM carriers so you may see differences in coverage depending on the bands your phone supports. Ready? Let’s get started.
Do you even need to unlock your Verizon phone?
We’re not questioning whether you want to change carriers or plan to travel abroad, we’re just saying that your phone might be unlocked already. This is true for all Verizon postpaid devices as well as some prepaid options.
If you’re planning to unlock your postpaid device, all you have to do is keep it on Verizon for 60 days or about two billing cycles. The 60-day period begins either after you purchase your device through Verizon or activate it through a retail partner. For prepaid phones, this period begins at activation so you couldn’t just buy a prepaid phone and wait 60 days.
No matter what you do during this 60 day period — whether you pay off your device in full or cancel service — you can’t accelerate it or escape from its limitations. The only way to get around the timeframe is if you are active military and stationed outside of Verizon’s coverage area.
How to unlock a Verizon prepaid phone
Unlock My Cell Phone Verizon
If you’re still here it means that you’ve got a Verizon prepaid phone that hasn’t been activated or a non-iPhone 3G World device. As long as either of those options is the case, you’ll want to follow these simple steps:
1. Insert a new SIM card into your device and power it on.
2. Once prompted, you’ll have to enter one of two codes:
- 000000
- 123456
How To Unlock A Cdma Verizon Phone
3. All done! Those are the only two codes that Verizon uses for unlocks. If either one did not work, simply call Verizon support service at *611 for manual help.
It really is that easy to unlock a Verizon phone. If you’re considering making the switch, you might find a few of our other guides helpful. We’ve created lists of the best plans on all of the major networks, so check ’em out right below.
Best cell phone plans: