How To Get Sprint Phone Unlocked

Unlocking your phone is not as complicated as you think. However, if you want to unlock Sprint phone, there are requirements that you'd need to comply with first. In this article, we will detail the important notes, the requirements and the methods on unlocking Sprint device.

Things to Consider Before You Unlock Sprint Phone

Before you unlock your phone, you need to consider the new carrier you'll be using. Carriers use either GSM or CDMA technology. Sprint uses the latter, as well as Verizon. On the other hand, AT&T and T-Mobile both run on GSM technology. This means that your unlocked Sprint phone will not function fully on AT&T and T-Mobile.

Moreover, just because Sprint and Verizon both use CDMA doesn't mean everything will work out fine. There are still phone models that won't work on Verizon. So it's important to check out the new carrier first before you make the shift.

Aside from these, it's also important to check out if you're eligible to unlock Sprint phone. There are requirements and checklist that you'll need to cross out and comply with.

If you're interested, you can also read up on how to unlock T-Mobile phone, as well as Verizon phone.

Sprint Unlocking Requirements

Sprint has a lengthy unlocking requirement. Generally, postpaid Sprint phones purchased after February 2015 will be automatically unlocked once they become eligible. Note that not all Sprint phones and devices are unlock-capable.

The following are the requirements before one can have their Sprint phone unlocked.

Postpaid devices

The phone must be unlock-capable.
The phone must be active on the network (Sprint) for at least 50 days.
The contractual agreements must have already been complied with. Any balance must be paid in full.
The account associated with the phone must be in good standing.
The device is not reported as stolen or lost or flagged due to any fraudulent activity.

Forward devices

The device is not reported as stolen or lost or flagged due to any fraudulent activity.
The phone must be active for at least 12 months on the associated number and account.

Note: For inactive device, over-the-air-update and additional validation may be required.

Military Personal Unlocking Requirements

Like other carriers, Sprint has relaxed its requirements and policies for military personnel who are deployed overseas. This is to give favor to those in the military and to reward their services to the country. The following are the unlocking requirements:

The phone is SIM unlock-capable for international use.
The account is owned by an active member of the US military or a family member of the said military (deployed personnel).
Overseas deployment papers.
The person requesting must have an account with Sprint, either as Account Holder or Authorized Contact.
The account associated with the phone is in good standing.
The account has not requested more than 2 unlocks in the last 12 months.

Related: Difference Between Locked and Unlocked Phones

Method 1: Unlock Through Sprint

Sprint's requirements regarding device unlocking are more stringent than other carriers. Nevertheless, as long as you've complied with their requirements, the unlocking process is pretty easy.

1. Comply with the requirements

Take note that there are different requirements for Sprint postpaid devices and forward devices. Refer to the abovementioned requirements so you can make sure that you're all set before you proceed to the next step.

2. Prepare the following information

When you request for device unlock, you'll be asked to give certain information about your phone and account. So make sure to prepare the following:

Account number (the one associated with the phone you're unlocking)
Account password.
IMEI or MEID number of your phone. You can call *#06# to ask for the 14 or 15-digit number.
The phone number.

If you're a military personnel deployed overseas, you'll also need your deployment papers.

3. Request a device unlock

The last step is to call or contact Sprint Customer Care (for domestic unlocking). When you've complied with the requirements and presented the necessary information, Sprint representative will then unlock your phone.

Method 2: Unlock Through a Third-Party Service

Another method of unlocking your Sprint phone is to go through a third-party service. However, unlike the first method, this one is not for free. Depending on the third-party service, you'll need to prepare a few bucks to have your device unlocked.

Moreover, you'll need to check out Sprint's terms and conditions before you choose this method.

1. Find a third-party service

The first thing to do is to research for a third-party service that unlocks phones. You'll need to research carefully because there are many scammers. Make sure that you'll only choose tried and tested third-party service.

2. Provide your phone's IMEI number

When you've found the third-party service you trust, just proceed to their website. In the unlock section, you'll be asked to enter your phone's IMEI or MEID number. You'll find this number by dialing *#06#. Here's a detailed instruction on how to find IMEI number. Aside from this number, you'll also need to provide other information (depending on the third-party service).

3. Pay for the service

As already mentioned, asking a third-party service for a device unlock is not for free. In order to get the unlock code, you'll need to pay the fee required.

4. Get the unlock code

You'll get the unlock code after paying. Depending on the third-party service, you'll retrieve the code as soon as you pay, or it could take hours or days.

5. Insert a new SIM card

Turn off your Sprint phone and insert a new SIM card. Just make sure that the new carrier is compatible with Sprint phone.

6. Unlock

You'll be prompted to provide the unlock code. Enter the code and your phone will then be unlocked.

Sprint Sim Card Kit

If have a non-Sprint phone but you want to use the Sprint network, check out this 4-in-1 SIM kit. It's easy to activate and is compatible with CDMA-compatible phones.

FAQs

Will unlocked Sprint phone work on Verizon?

Generally, yes. This is because both carriers use CDMA technology. However, there are some phone models that won't work on Verizon. So better check with Verizon first before switching.

Who can unlock Sprint phone?

Sprint Customer Care can unlock Sprint phone as long as you've met their requirements and the phone is unlock-capable. Third-party service can also unlock your phone for a price.

Is phone unlocking similar to jailbreaking?

No. Unlocking your phone lets you use a new SIM card from another carrier. Jailbreaking your phone lets you control which software or app to install and use.

Ready to Unlock Your Phone?

Sprint may be strict about its unlocking requirements. However, most devices purchased from Sprint starting February 2015 are already unlock-capable, and will automatically get unlocked once they become eligible. Just be sure to check out Sprint's policies.

As long as you comply with the requirements and your new network is compatible with your phone, it's not that complicated to unlock Sprint phone.

Do you find this helpful? Let us know what you think and leave a comment below.

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Jagdish is an Android troubleshooter who loves talking tech and discussing technology's impact on humanity. He is passionate about writing and fond of technology—with a zeal for Android problem-solving. When Jag isn't writing or discussing tech and marketing, he'll be smashing cricket balls or shooting hoops on the basketball court.