Whether you need to check your warranty status, contact Apple Support, or verify a used device before purchasing, knowing your MacBook Pro’s serial number is essential.
Every MacBook Pro has a unique alphanumeric code assigned to it. If you are stuck with a black screen or don't have the device in hand, don't worry—there are multiple ways to retrieve this number.
Here are the five easiest ways to check the serial number on a MacBook Pro.
The serial number is a unique identifier for your MacBook Pro. You’ll need it to check warranty status, get service, find compatible parts, or verify authenticity.
Here are four easy ways to find it:
If your MacBook Pro turns on and loads macOS, this is the quickest route. how to check serial number macbook pro
Pro tip: Click directly on the serial number text. It will change to display the model identifier (e.g., MacBookPro15,1) and then the hardware UUID. Click multiple times to cycle through. You can copy the serial number by highlighting it and pressing Command + C.
Best for: Proof of purchase for insurance or warranty claims.
If you bought the MacBook Pro from Apple or an Authorized Reseller, the serial number will almost always be printed on the digital or physical receipt. Check your email confirmation or the printed invoice.
The Terminal offers a direct, script-friendly way to extract the serial number without clicking through menus.
ioreg -l | grep IOPlatformSerialNumber
"IOPlatformSerialNumber" = "C02XK2F8JG5H"
Alternative command: system_profiler SPHardwareDataType | grep Serial (gives a cleaner result). How to Find the Serial Number on a
This method works even if your system is having graphical interface problems, as long as you can reach the command line.
You can also find the serial number without booting into macOS fully.
The serial number will be displayed in the center of the window. This works even if your internal hard drive is completely erased.
The easiest and most reliable way to check the serial number is from the Mac itself while it’s powered on.
system_profiler SPHardwareDataType | grep "Serial Number"
These in‑OS methods work regardless of whether the Mac is signed into an Apple ID; they require the Mac to be powered on and functional. How to Check the Serial Number of a
This is my favorite trick because it feels like magic.
Click the Apple logo in the top-left corner of your screen. Select About This Mac.
Look at the window that pops up. See "Serial Number"? Right below it is your code. Here’s the pro move: Click on the serial number itself.
It changes. Click again. It changes to the model name. Click again—the macOS version. Click a fourth time—back to the serial. It’s like a fidget toy built into your operating system.