How to Activate a Verizon Cell Phone

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Activating a smartphone on Verizon is done during the initial setup when powering on your device. You will need the password for the Verizon account that handles billing for your plan or the last four digits of the social security number associated with the account. You can also activate phones from previous account usage or phones used with other carriers from the “Bring Your Own Phone” section of your account page.

Method 1
Method 1 of 4:

Activating an iPhone

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    The power button is on the right. After the initial startup “apple” you will be taken to the Activation screen.
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    This will be displayed on the page. If it matches your expectations you can proceed, otherwise contact Verizon support.
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    You may also be able to enter the last four digits of the social security number associated with the billing information on the account instead.
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    • If you receive a SIM card error, ensure that you have the correct SIM card inserted in the iPhone.
  7. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/88\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-7-Version-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-7-Version-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/88\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-7-Version-5.jpg\/aid1095385-v4-728px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-7-Version-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    With activation complete, you will be prompted to finish configuring your device preferences.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 4:

Activating an Android

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    • If you're activating a used device, make sure to insert your own SIM card first.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/4f\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-15-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-15-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/4f\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-15-Version-2.jpg\/aid1095385-v4-728px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-15-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
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    This button appears in the lower right.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3b\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-17-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-17-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/3b\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-17-Version-2.jpg\/aid1095385-v4-728px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-17-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    This button may also appear as Next .
    • Activation amy begin automatically. If not you will be prompted for Verizon account information before proceeding..
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    Verizon will automatically deactivate your old device if necessary. Once powered off, you must wait several seconds for the device to finish deactivating. [1]
  6. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/71\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-19-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-19-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/71\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-19-Version-2.jpg\/aid1095385-v4-728px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-19-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    You may also be able to enter the last four digits of the social security number associated with the billing information on the account instead.
  7. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/9b\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-20-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-20-Version-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/9b\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-20-Version-4.jpg\/aid1095385-v4-728px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-20-Version-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    You will be prompted to setup various accounts or services to start using your device. You can read more here or tap the ⏭ Skip option on each page to do it later. Your phone will be activated and ready to use.
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Method 3
Method 3 of 4:

Switching to Verizon

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    Go to https://www.verizonwireless.com/bring-your-own-device/ in your web browser. The page includes step by step instructions for locating and verifying the necessary information on your device to determine if it will function with the Verizon network.
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    Navigate to https://www.verizonwireless.com/vzw/browse/devicechange/home.jsp . If not already logged in, you will be prompted for your Verizon username and password.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d5\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-23-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-23-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d5\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-23-Version-2.jpg\/aid1095385-v4-728px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-23-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    You will be taken to a list of devices on your account.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3f\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-24-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-24-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/3f\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-24-Version-2.jpg\/aid1095385-v4-728px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-24-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
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    Choose Yes if this device has been used previously on your Verizon account. Otherwise choose No .
  6. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c5\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-26-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-26-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c5\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-26-Version-2.jpg\/aid1095385-v4-728px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-26-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The page for this selection mirrors that in the first step. Once your device is confirmed as compatible, you can proceed.
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    For authorization purposes, Verizon will send you a code via text message to another phone associated with your account
    • If no other phone line exists on your account or is active, you will need to contact customer service to complete the switch. [2]
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    After a few moments, the authorization code will be sent to the selected line.
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    This information goes into the Online Authorization Code field.
  10. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3d\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-30.jpg\/v4-460px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-30.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/3d\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-30.jpg\/aid1095385-v4-728px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-30.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    You will be prompted to confirm the compatibility of your SIM card. If you do not have a SIM card or know it is compatible, then you can skip the next step.
    • If you do not have one, you will need to purchase one in order to use your phone with Verizon.
  11. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a3\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-31.jpg\/v4-460px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-31.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/a3\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-31.jpg\/aid1095385-v4-728px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-31.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    You can find instructions for locating this information by clicking “Finding Your SIM Card and SIM ID”
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    This options will only appear if you previously had equipment protection or have recently upgraded.
  14. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c9\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-34.jpg\/v4-460px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-34.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c9\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-34.jpg\/aid1095385-v4-728px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-34.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
  15. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/51\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-35.jpg\/v4-460px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-35.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/51\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-35.jpg\/aid1095385-v4-728px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-35.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    This option will only appear if the device you're activating is not compatible with your current plan.
  16. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/dd\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-36.jpg\/v4-460px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-36.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/dd\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-36.jpg\/aid1095385-v4-728px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-36.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Your device activation is now complete.
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Method 4
Method 4 of 4:

Calling Verizon

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  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/10\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-37.jpg\/v4-460px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-37.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/10\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-37.jpg\/aid1095385-v4-728px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-37.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    You will need a SIM card in order to connect to the 4G LTE network. You can order one from the Verizon website, by calling the Customer Service line, or by visiting a Verizon store.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a3\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-38.jpg\/v4-460px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-38.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/a3\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-38.jpg\/aid1095385-v4-728px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-38.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    You can get the IMEI number for most phones by dialing *#06#. You may be prompted for this number during the activation process.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/07\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-39-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-39-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/07\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-39-Version-3.jpg\/aid1095385-v4-728px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-39-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    This is Verizon's Customer Service number, and the customer service rep can activate your phone for you. You may need to give your IMEI number as well as prove that you are the account holder.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/66\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-40.jpg\/v4-460px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-40.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/66\/Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-40.jpg\/aid1095385-v4-728px-Activate-a-Verizon-Cell-Phone-Step-40.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a> (screenshot)<br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Most customer service reps should be able to activate your phone in just a few moments. Make sure to bring in your SIM card, or let the employee know that you need to purchase a new SIM card.
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Community Q&A

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  • Question
    Why doesn't my Verizon sim card allow me to use the internet and limits me to 1x?
    Community Answer
    You are most likely out of a data service area. If you are in an area where you know you should get service and are still having problems, try restarting your phone. If that does not work you may need to contact customer support.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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  • Question
    What is the test call number
    Community Answer
    #832 is the Verizon test call number. You can also try calling a friend or another phone on hand to make sure the phone is working properly.
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  • Question
    How do I activate a Verizon phone without a sim card?
    Community Answer
    You can activate the phone from your account page using the "Bring Your Own Phone" option. However, you will need to acquire a SIM card in order to use your device effectively.
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      Tips

      • All phones must be compatible with the Verizon network and have a Verizon SIM card to use the network.
        Thanks
      • If at any time you encounter difficulties activating, you can call Verizon customer service at (800) 837-4966. Be sure to have your IMEI/IMSI/MEID handy as well as your account details.
        Thanks
      • If switching from an iPhone to an Android phone, make sure to turn off iMessage on your iPhone before changing your number over. This will help ensure that no problems occur when communicating with others still using iMessage moving forward:
        • Tap Settings
        • Tap Messages
        • Tap iMessage
        • Tap the slider to turn it off.
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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.verizonwireless.com/support/knowledge-base-203267/
      2. ↑ https://www.verizonwireless.com/support/activate-switch-or-bring-your-own-device-faqs/

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