Unlock SIM card

To unlock your SIM card, simply enter the PIN code that came with your SIM. If you’ve lost your PIN or aren’t sure of the numbers, it’s best to try and find the code or contact your provider rather than guessing. You only have a limited number of attempts before the SIM locks, at which point you’ll need a PUK code to get back in. On this page, we’ll explain exactly how the process works and what you need to do.

Unlocking your SIM card with a PIN

You use a four-digit PIN (Personal Identification Number) to secure and unlock your SIM card. You can usually find this code on the plastic SIM card holder (the “starter kit”) or, if you’re using an eSIM, in the confirmation email or digital activation guide sent by your provider.

If you’ve forgotten the code and have already thrown away the packaging, you can usually find it by logging into your account via your telco’s website or mobile app. If you’re having trouble finding it or feel a bit unsure, it’s always best to contact your provider’s customer service team directly for a hand.

Please note! If you have previously changed your PIN to a personal one, that is the code you must use. In this case, the original PIN listed in your online account will no longer work.

It’s important to remember that you only have a limited number of attempts to enter the correct PIN. With most Australian providers, you get a maximum of three attempts. We recommend double-checking with your provider and avoiding any guesswork.

If you enter the wrong PIN too many times, your SIM card will be “blocked,” and you will then need a PUK code to unlock it.

How to use a PUK code

The PUK code (Personal Unlocking Key) is an eight-digit code used to unblock your SIM card if the wrong PIN has been entered too many times. You have ten attempts to enter the correct PUK code. If you fail all ten attempts, your SIM card will be permanently disabled, and you will need to order a replacement SIM.

Make sure you have the correct PUK code ready and enter it carefully to avoid using up your attempts.

Please note! Don’t confuse the PUK code with a Network Unlock Code. A PUK unlocks your specific SIM card, whereas a Network Unlock Code is used if a handset is locked to a specific carrier and you want to use a SIM from a different network.

In Australia, most phones sold on postpaid plans are sold unlocked. However, if you bought a cheap prepaid handset, it might still be locked to the original network. Under ACMA guidelines and Australian consumer law, providers are generally required to help you unlock these devices, though some may charge a fee if you haven’t met the minimum spend requirements.

How do you get your PUK code?

Just like your PIN, the PUK code is usually printed on the original SIM card holder. If you don’t have that anymore, you’ll need to source it from your provider. Most major Aussie telcos make this easy to find via their My Account portals or apps.

Below is a quick guide on how to find your PUK with some of Australia’s leading providers.

How to get a PUK code from your provider

  • Telstra: Log in to the My Telstra app or website. Go to the Services tab, select your mobile number, and look for Manage SIM/eSIM to find your PUK.
  • Optus: Use the My Optus app. Go to the Service tab, select your mobile number, and tap on View PUK code.
  • Vodafone: Log in to My Vodafone online or via the app and navigate to SIM Management to view your PUK code instantly. Alternatively, you can chat with TOBi (Vodafone’s virtual assistant) via the website or app. For security, TOBi will ask you to log in to your account or verify your identity before securely displaying your PUK code.
  • Boost Mobile: You can usually find your PUK in the Boost Mobile App under Settings or by using the help feature on their website.
  • amaysim: Log in to your account on the amaysim website or app. Your PUK code is typically listed under Settings and then SIM Management in the amaysim app

Can you disable the SIM card PIN on your mobile?

Yes, you can turn off the PIN requirement entirely in your phone’s settings. This means you won’t be prompted for a code when you restart your device. Below, we show how you do it on the most common smartphones.

Turn off the SIM PIN on iPhone

  1. Go to Settings > Mobile Data > SIM PIN.
  2. If you use dual SIMs or an eSIM, select the specific plan you want to manage.
  3. Toggle the SIM PIN switch to “Off”.
  4. Enter your current PIN to confirm. If you’ve never changed it, use the one that came with your SIM.
  5. Tap Done.

Turn off the SIM PIN on Android (e.g., Samsung Galaxy)

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap on Security and Privacy > Other security settings.
  3. Select Set up SIM card lock or SIM card security.
  4. Switch off the toggle for Lock SIM card.
  5. Enter your current PIN to confirm the change.

Because there are so many different Android manufacturers (such as Samsung, Google Pixel, and Oppo) the exact menu names and steps may vary slightly depending on your specific handset and software version. If you can’t find these exact options, try searching for SIM PIN or SIM security within your phone’s settings search bar.