How to Check PTA Tax & Approval Status by IMEI (2026)
Step-by-step guide to verify whether a phone is PTA approved and check its tax status using the IMEI number.
Reviewed by Salman Ahmed·Updated 15 June 2026What is an IMEI number?
Every mobile device has a unique 15-digit IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number. In Pakistan, the PTA uses the IMEI to identify a device on its DIRBS system and determine whether it is registered, blocked, or requires tax payment.
How to find your IMEI
Dial *#06# on any phone and the IMEI will appear on screen. You can also find it in Settings > About Phone, on the original box, or on the SIM tray of iPhones. Dual-SIM phones have two IMEI numbers, so both are registered together.
Check status by SMS (fastest)
Send the 15-digit IMEI to 8484 from any Pakistani SIM. Within seconds you will receive an SMS confirming whether the device is 'Compliant' (approved), 'Non-compliant' (tax due), or blocked. This is the official PTA channel and it is free.
Check status online
Visit the official DIRBS portal at dirbs.pta.gov.pk and enter your IMEI to see the compliance status. Government employees and overseas Pakistanis can also use the PTA DIRBS mobile app.
What the result means
'Valid/Compliant' means the phone is already PTA approved and no tax is due. 'Non-compliant' means you must pay the applicable PTA tax to keep using it beyond the free trial window. 'Blocked' means the device has already exceeded the allowed period without registration.