PTA Mobile Check: How to Check If Your Phone Is PTA Approved (2026)

Buying a new or used phone in Pakistan? A quick PTA mobile check tells you if the phone is registered with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority. Unregistered phones can be blocked from mobile networks, so always check before you pay.

Step 1: Find the IMEI Number

Dial *#06# on the phone. Dual-SIM phones show two IMEI numbers – check both.

Method 1: PTA Mobile Check by SMS (8484)

1. Open your messages app.
2. Type the 15-digit IMEI number.
3. Send it to 8484.
4. You will receive a reply showing whether the device is compliant (approved) or not.

Method 2: DIRBS Website

1. Visit dirbs.pta.gov.pk.
2. Enter the IMEI number and the captcha.
3. View the device status.

Method 3: DIRBS Mobile App

Download the official DIRBS Pakistan app from the Play Store or App Store and enter the IMEI to check status.

Understanding the Result

• Compliant / Valid – the phone is PTA approved and safe to use.
• Non-compliant – the phone is not registered and may be blocked.
• Blocked / Stolen – do not buy this phone.

What to Do If the Phone Is Not PTA Approved

Phones brought from abroad can be registered by paying the PTA tax/duty through the official DIRBS process. Tax amounts depend on the phone model and change from time to time, so check the current amount on the official PTA DIRBS portal.

Tips When Buying a Used Phone

• Always do a PTA mobile check in front of the seller.
• Match the IMEI on the box with *#06#.
• Avoid deals that look too cheap.

Final Thoughts

A PTA mobile check takes less than a minute. Do it every time you buy a phone in Pakistan to avoid blocked devices and wasted money.