The PUK code or Personal Unlocking Key is a security feature of all the modern SIM cards used in our smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices. If you insert the wrong PIN code three times, your SIM card is locked, and you need its PUK code to unlock it. The PUK code is unique to each SIM card, and entering it incorrectly too many times (usually ten) can get your SIM disabled, so it's important to use the correct one. This tutorial illustrates how to get the PUK code of your SIM card and resume using your mobile device:

1. Get the PUK code from the SIM card packaging

When you purchase a SIM card, it comes in a little package, and the PUK code should also be included in it. If you still have the package, look for the plastic card that the SIM was snapped out of. The 8 digit PUK code should be printed on the back, together with the SIM PIN code. Below you can see two such plastic cards from Orange (left) and Telekom (right). Your mobile provider should have similar packaging for the SIM card.

If you can't see the PUK on the back, you might have to reveal it. Look for a scratchable area on the back of the plastic card, as seen on the Vodafone card in the image below.

Use a coin, a key, or anything metal to gently scratch off the area and reveal your PUK code.

If you can't find the packaging, don't worry. You can also get the PUK code from your mobile carrier.

2. Sign in on your mobile carrier's website to get the PUK code

Most mobile carriers offer online accounts to their customers. If that is the case for you, go to your mobile carrier's official website and sign in with your credentials. The PUK code should be listed under your profile. Since every website is different, look for the option to get the PUK code or unlock the SIM card to find what you need.

3. Call your mobile carrier to get the PUK code

Some people might find it easier to get the PUK code over the phone. Your mobile carrier knows the PUK code because it manufactured your SIM card and set the PUK code to begin with. Call the customer support service of your mobile carrier and describe your problem. Once you prove your identity by answering some security questions (usually your name, date of birth, address, etc.), they should be able to provide your PUK code.

Once you have your PUK code, you can use it to unlock your mobile device. If you need further assistance, we created tutorials to help you use the PUK code to unlock your Android's SIM card and use the PUK code to unlock your iPhone.

Did you get your PUK code? How?

We use several devices and SIM cards to bring you tutorials, so we know how frustrating it is to forget your PIN and be asked for the PUK code. Luckily, we tend to be pack rats when it comes to boxes and packages, so the PUK codes are always handy. We hope this guide helped you find the PUK also and we strongly recommend writing it down to avoid looking for it again. Before you close this page, let us know which method worked for you. Did you get your PUK code without calling customer service? Let us know in the comments.