You must activate a used cell phone that you buy from the internet or get from a friend before you can use it. Luckily this process is very easy to do with Verizon. This guide will be of great help to both existing Verizon customers and customers who are just starting out with Verizon services.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Activating On Phone
Step 1. Insert the SIM card
The SIM card contains your phone number as well as your account and service information. In most phones, the SIM card is inserted behind the battery or near it. You must have a SIM card from Verizon and a valid phone plan before you can activate your phone.
- Remove the back cover of the phone and remove the battery. You'll see a slot for a card that says "SIM."
- Push the card until it locks into position. To remove it, push the card and it will pop out.
- When the battery is removed, write down the IMEI/IMSI/MEID number on the back of the battery. This is the Device ID that Verizon staff may ask if you are having trouble activating.
- Reinstall the battery and turn on the phone
Step 2. Call *228
This is to call the auto activation service on Verizon. The phone can make these calls without being activated.
- Select option 1 to activate the phone. Enter the 10-digit mobile number including the area code. If you're using a new phone plan, the phone number is listed on the receipt.
- Enter the last 4 digits of the account holder's Social Security number. This is to ensure that the rightful account owner authorizes the activation of the phone.
Step 3. Let the phone reboot
During the activation process, the phone may restart itself once or twice. Verizon is sending a cell phone programming signal.
The activation process may take up to 15 minutes, depending on your phone. Once done you will see a signal bar at the top of the screen
Method 2 of 3: Activating Over the Internet With a Phone Plan
Step 1. Log in to your Verizon account
You will add the device to your phone plan via the account settings page. Go to the Verizon homepage and log in to My Verizon using your account information.
- Once you're logged in, hover your mouse over the "My Verizon" tab and then click "Activate or Switch device" from the drop-down menu.
- Enter the requested information, such as the mobile number for the activated device, the last 4 digits of the account holder's SSN, and the IMEI/IMSI/MEID number under the battery.
Step 2. Turn on the phone
The activation process will start automatically. Your phone may reboot itself once or twice during the activation process. Once done you will see a signal bar at the top of the screen.
Make sure the SIM card is properly inserted
Method 3 of 3: Activating Over the Internet Without a Phone Plan
Step 1. Visit the Verizon Wireless devices page
The Device Activation page is here. This site checks if your device is compatible with Verizon services, and displays the service plans for that device.
Step 2. Enter the Device ID
The website provides specific instructions for finding IDs. Most IDs are printed on the back of the battery. There are three types of Device ID: IMEI/IMSI/MEID. Enter the ID into the appropriate box on the site.
Step 3. Click "Check Device"
If your device is compatible with the Verizon network, you will be given a choice of service plans. After you choose one of the packages and sign the contract, the phone will be automatically activated.
