First, confirm your device is compatible with the UScellular Network. Then, make sure your compatible device is unlocked. You'll have to contact your current carrier before cancelling your existing service. UScellular can't unlock devices from other carriers and your device has to be unlocked before activation on the UScellular network. If your device displays a message like "SIM Not Valid" or "SIM Not Recognized," when a UScellular SIM is installed into it, then your device is locked.
Once you know your BYOD device is eligible to bring on to our network, you can place your order online to have a SIM card shipped to you, or you can visit your local UScellular store for activation and a SIM card.
Yes. An eSIM is a digital SIM that lets you activate a phone plan without a physical SIM card. eSIM is becoming more common on the latest smartphones and tablets. To check if your eSIM capable device is compatible with our network, enter the IMEI that is associated with the eSIM on your device into our compatibility checker. You can find your eSIM IMEI by dialing *#06# on the keypad, or in the settings of your device. This may be called IMEI 2 or digital SIM on some devices.
iPhones purchased outside of the United States are not eligible for activation on the UScellular network.
Yes, but first you'll have to confirm the device is a make and model that's compatible with our network. Second, make sure that you buy an unlocked device. Then you can order online or visit your nearest UScellular store to get a UScellular SIM card and choose a UScellular service plan.
Yes, we welcome re-activation of devices. However, Analog, TDMA, and Non-GPS capable devices are ineligible for activation. Devices reported as lost or stolen are also ineligible for activation.
Not all devices are designed to work across all networks. Due to this, some devices are not eligible.
Yes, check out our Trade-in Program. You can trade in your incompatible device and get credit towards any new UScellular device.
No, only devices purchased from UScellular or an authorized UScellular retailer are eligible for Device Protection+.
Yes, your existing AppleCare service will remain active when you bring your device to UScellular.
Any of our current calling and data plans, including unlimited and prepaid plans, are eligible in our BYOD program.
ADDING A NEW LINE WITH YOUR CURRENT PHONE
You can use our compatibility checker to see if your phone or tablet will work on our network.
A credit check may be required.
Existing accounts must be current to add a new line.
Yes. Just remember, to move your phone number over to our network, the phone's original account must still be active with the other provider.
Some phone service providers require a phone to be paid in full before you can move its number to another network — check with your current provider for their policy.
Have the following information about the phone number you want to transfer:
Account owner's full name
Provider's name
Account number with that provider
Password or PIN for the account with that provider (Some providers require a porting PIN, check with your current provider for their requirements)