What you need to do to turn on a Cricket SIM card

To turn on a Cricket SIM card, you insert it into a compatible phone, power on the phone, and then contact Cricket Wireless to register the card and set up your account. Cricket does not turn on automatically — you must call or go online to complete the registration before you can make calls or use data. The whole process usually takes less than an hour.

You will need your SIM card number (printed on the card itself), a valid form of ID, and either a phone number you want to keep or permission to receive a new one. If you are moving a number from another carrier, have that account information ready as well.

Key Takeaways

  • Insert the SIM card into your phone, power it on, and wait for the network to recognize it before contacting Cricket.
  • You can register your SIM card by calling Cricket at 1-800-CRICKET (1-800-274-2538) or through the Cricket Wireless website or app.
  • Have your SIM card number, a valid ID, and your desired phone number or account details ready when you contact Cricket.
  • If you are transferring a number from another carrier, the process takes longer — usually one to two business days — because Cricket must coordinate with your old provider.
  • Your phone will not work for calls or data until Cricket confirms your registration, even if you see the network name appear on your screen.

Insert the SIM card into your phone

The SIM card slot is usually on the side of your phone or under the battery. Most newer phones have a small tray that pops out when you press a tiny hole with a SIM ejector tool (or a straightened paperclip). Slide the SIM card into the tray with the gold contacts facing down, push the tray back in, and close it firmly.

Power on your phone and wait 30 seconds to two minutes for it to search for the network. You should see "Cricket" or "Cricket Wireless" appear in the network name at the top of your screen. This does not mean you are connected — it only means your phone recognizes the network exists.

Register your SIM card with Cricket Wireless

Call Cricket at 1-800-CRICKET (1-800-274-2538) from any phone, or visit the Cricket Wireless website or mobile app to register online. Have your SIM card number ready — it is printed on the card itself, usually near the bottom. You will also need a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID).

During registration, you will choose whether to use a new phone number or transfer an existing one from another carrier. If you are keeping your current number, you must provide your account details from your old carrier, including your account number and PIN if you have one. Cricket will then contact your old carrier to request the transfer.

Transferring your number from another carrier

If you are moving your phone number to Cricket, the registration process is the same, but the activation takes longer. Your old carrier must release the number, and Cricket must receive it — this usually takes one to two business days. During this time, your old phone will stop working, but your new Cricket phone will not work yet either.

Once the transfer is complete, Cricket will send you a text message or email confirming that your number is now active. You can then make calls and use data. If the transfer takes longer than two business days, contact Cricket to check the status — sometimes the old carrier delays the release, and Cricket may need to follow up.

What to do if your phone does not connect after registration

If you have registered but your phone still shows no signal or cannot make calls, restart your phone first. Power it off completely, wait 10 seconds, and turn it back on. This forces your phone to reconnect to the network and often resolves temporary connection issues.

If restarting does not work, check that you have the correct APN (Access Point Name) settings for Cricket. For most phones, these are set automatically, but some older or less common models require manual entry. Call Cricket at 1-800-CRICKET and ask them to confirm your APN settings or send them to you via text. Write down the settings they provide and enter them in your phone's network settings under "Mobile Networks" or "Cellular Data Options."

Activating a used or second-hand Cricket SIM card

If you bought a used phone that already has a Cricket SIM card in it, you cannot simply turn it on and use it. The SIM card is tied to the previous owner's account. You must either remove it and insert a new SIM card (which you can order from Cricket or pick up at a retail location), or contact Cricket to have the old SIM card removed from the previous account and reassigned to you.

Reassigning an old SIM card is simpler than ordering a new one if you want to keep the same phone number. Call Cricket and explain that you have a used phone with an existing SIM card. They will verify your identity and transfer the card to your new account. If you want a different phone number, it is faster to order a new SIM card and follow the standard registration process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my phone before I register the SIM card?

No. Your phone will recognize the Cricket network and may show signal bars, but you cannot make calls, send texts, or use data until Cricket registers your SIM card and activates your account. Registration must happen first.

How long does it take for a new SIM card to work after I register?

If you are using a new phone number, activation is usually instant or within a few minutes of completing registration. If you are transferring a number from another carrier, it takes one to two business days because your old carrier must release the number first.

What if I lose my SIM card number?

The SIM card number is printed on the physical card, but if you have already inserted it into your phone, you can find it in your phone's settings under "About Phone" or "Device Information." You can also call Cricket and provide your phone number or ID, and they can look up your SIM card number in their system.

Do I need to register in a Cricket store, or can I do it online?

You can register online through the Cricket Wireless website or app, by phone at 1-800-CRICKET, or in person at a Cricket retail store. Online and phone registration are usually faster. In-store registration is helpful if you need help choosing a plan or have questions about your account.

What happens if I insert a Cricket SIM card into a phone that is locked to another carrier?

The phone will not connect to the Cricket network. Your phone must be unlocked or compatible with Cricket's network. If your phone is locked to another carrier, contact that carrier to request an unlock code, or ask Cricket whether your specific phone model is compatible with their network before you register.