TAC
The type allocation code is the first eight IMEI digits. It names the device model, not the individual unit.
Definitions only — a term explained here is not a service we sell.
The type allocation code (TAC) is the first eight IMEI digits and identifies the device model. The rest of the IMEI identifies the unit, so every device of one model shares the TAC.
The GSMA allocates TACs and maps each one to a manufacturer and model. The database cannot prove a unit is genuine.
IMEI structure
- TAC (model)
- 35693803
- Serial
- 564380
- Check digit
- 9
Text description
The first eight digits are the type allocation code, then six serial digits and a check digit. No input is accepted.
Model and unit
The TAC names the model or variant, not the unit. Fleets inventory by TAC to count model variants without scanning every unit.
What to check
Read the first eight digits and preserve leading zeros. The IMEISV is 16 digits and ends in a two-digit software version instead of the check digit. Check the TAC against the manufacturer's declaration. Proving a unit is genuine takes the full IMEI and the operator's checks. The four numbers explainer shows where it sits.