Let’s start by making sure we have the basics clearly defined. By definition, a Verizon phone is one that you obtained from Verizon Wireless. This is whether you paid anything for it or got it for “free”.
A locked phone will only work with the carrier to which it is locked. So, a locked Verizon phone will work only with a Verizon SIM card. An unlocked smartphone is usable with SIM cards from other carriers.
Key takeaways
- Every phone – prepaid or postpaid – you buy from Verizon Wireless is locked to their network.
- If you get a free phone from Verizon, it is locked to their network.
- The only way to use an unlocked phone on Verizon is to bring your own device.
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Verizon locks all phones sold on their network
In 2019, Verizon implemented a policy that locks all devices purchased from them. This is whether you buy it directly from Verizon or through one of their retail partners.
This is also applicable to discounted and “free” phones that you get from Verizon Wireless through special deals or offers.
This policy also covers smartphones and tablets purchased at full retail price or on a device payment agreement. In other words, it does not matter how you get the phone from Verizon, every Verizon phone or device is locked on activation.
How long are Verizon phones locked for?
All Verizon phones are locked for 60 days from the date of purchase. This policy applies to new and existing customers and customers porting their service to another carrier.
How to get a free cellphone on Verizon Wireless
Every now and then, Verizon Wireless offers a smartphone for $0 or free. Usually, the condition to qualify for this free phone is that you buy one of the Unlimited Welcome, Unlimited Plus, or Unlimited Ultimate plans.
For example, after the launch of Samsung Galaxy S24 FE, Verizon Wireless offered this $649 smartphone for free to individuals who buy one of those plans. The deal may still be on, so do check it out.
If you bring your own device to Verizon, does it get locked?
Not at all. If you bring your own device to the Verizon Wireless network, it does not get locked to the network. You will be able to use it with any compatible carrier. No restrictions.
How to unlock a Verizon phone
If you are not a military service personnel, there is no way to unlock a Verizon phone before the 60-day period after purchase.
Verizon Wireless locks all new phones purchased (even for $0) on the network for 60 days after activation and automatically unlocks them after 60 days.
So you do not have to do anything to unlock a Verizon cell phone. It will happen automatically.
If you cancel your Verizon service before the 60-day period, your phone stays locked till the 60-day term ends.
If you port out your number from Verizon Wireless to another carrier, your Verizon phone will stay locked until the 60-day term ends.
Why Verizon Wireless phones are locked
Verizon says that it locks all devices from the network for 60 days from purchase. Why? To serve as a deterrent to theft and to prevent fraud.
If a Verizon phone or tablet is not reported as lost or stolen and is not flagged for fraud, it will be automatically unlocked 60 days after purchase.
Will a locked phone work when roaming on another carrier when travelling?
Yes, using locked smartphone doesn’t affect roaming. You will be able to use a locked device to roam on another carrier’s network when travelling.