Government iPhoneBring Your Own Phone Guide
✅ Editorially reviewed
📋 Sourced from FCC & USAC
📅 Updated July 2026
Check compatibility
Confirm your phone is unlocked and compatible with the network of the carrier you choose — most modern unlocked phones support this.
Get a new SIM or eSIM
Your chosen carrier will send a new SIM card or provide eSIM activation instructions once your application is approved.
Keep your number
You can typically port your existing number over during activation — see our number-porting guide for details.
Frequently asked questions
Confirm it's unlocked and check that it supports the frequency bands used by your chosen carrier's network — the carrier can typically confirm this during application.
Often yes, since there's no device shipping wait — you can typically activate as soon as your SIM or eSIM is issued.
Sources
- Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Lifeline Program rules
- Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC)