How to Get Airtel PUK Number (Step-by-Step Guide)

Updated:

If your Airtel SIM card is blocked after entering the wrong PIN several times, you will need a PUK (Personal Unblocking Key) to unlock it. The good news is that Airtel makes it easy to retrieve your PUK number using another Airtel line.

How to Get Airtel PUK Number (Step-by-Step Guide)

This guide explains how to get your Airtel PUK number, what information you need, and what to do if the method does not work.

What Is a PUK Number?

A PUK number is a unique security code linked to your SIM card. It is used to unlock your SIM when the PIN is entered incorrectly more than three times.

⚠️ Important:

  • Entering the wrong PUK too many times can permanently block your SIM.
  • Always retrieve the correct PUK before attempting to unlock your line.

What You Need Before Getting Your Airtel PUK

To successfully retrieve your Airtel PUK number, ensure you have:

  • Another active Airtel line (can be a friend’s phone)
  • The Airtel number whose PUK is required
  • The registered ID or Passport number used during SIM registration

How to Get Airtel PUK Using Another Airtel Line

Follow these steps carefully:

Step 1: Use Another Airtel Phone

Borrow a phone with an active Airtel SIM card. The PUK request must be made using an Airtel line.

Step 2: Dial the Airtel Service Code

On the borrowed phone, dial:

*100#

This opens the Airtel self-service menu.

Step 3: Select “Get PUK”

From the menu options:

  • Choose Get PUK
  • Follow the on-screen prompts

Step 4: Enter the Blocked Airtel Number

Input the Airtel phone number that is blocked and needs the PUK.

Ensure the number is entered correctly.

Step 5: Enter the Registered ID or Passport Number

Provide the exact ID or Passport number that was used to register the blocked SIM card.

✔️ The details must match Airtel records for security reasons.

Step 6: Receive the PUK via SMS

If all details are correct:

  • Airtel will send an SMS containing the PUK number
  • Use this PUK to unlock your blocked SIM

How to Unlock Your Airtel SIM Using the PUK

  1. Insert the blocked SIM card into your phone
  2. Enter the PUK number when prompted
  3. Set a new SIM PIN
  4. Confirm the new PIN

Your Airtel line should now be active.

What If You Don’t Receive the PUK SMS?

If the SMS does not arrive:

  • Double-check the phone number entered
  • Ensure the ID/Passport number is correct
  • Try again after a few minutes

If the issue persists, visit an Airtel customer care shop with:

  • Original ID or Passport
  • The blocked SIM card

Can I Get My Airtel PUK Without an ID?

No. For security reasons, Airtel requires the registered ID or Passport number. This protects customers from SIM swap fraud.

Can I Get Airtel PUK Online?

Currently, the fastest and most reliable method is:

  • Dialing *100# using another Airtel line
  • Visiting an Airtel shop if the USSD option fails

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Guessing the PUK number
❌ Entering the wrong PUK repeatedly
❌ Using incorrect registration details
❌ Using a non-Airtel line to dial *100#

These mistakes can permanently block your SIM.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many attempts do I have for the PUK?

You usually get 10 attempts. Exceeding this permanently blocks the SIM.

Is getting a PUK free?

Yes. Retrieving your Airtel PUK via *100# is free.

Can someone else retrieve my PUK?

Yes, but only if they have:

  • Another Airtel line
  • Your correct registered ID or Passport number

Conclusion

Getting your Airtel PUK number is quick and simple if you follow the correct steps. Always keep your SIM registration details safe and avoid guessing PIN or PUK numbers.

If you expect frequent PIN issues, consider disabling the SIM PIN after unlocking your line.