Network guide

USSD Code To Check Telkom Number

  • Works on any phone
  • No internet needed
  • Primary code *1#
  • Also listed *180#
  • Also listed *188#

Quick Answer

Verified Route: To instantly check the mobile number assigned to your Telkom SIM, dial *1# on your phone’s keypad and press the call/send button.

  • Expected Result: Your 10-digit Telkom mobile number (e.g., 081xxxxxxx) will immediately appear directly on your device screen.
  • Cost: Free of charge (does not require active airtime or data).
  • Last Verified: July 2026

What the Service Is and Who Can Use It

The <code>*1# USSD code is a built-in network command provided by Telkom Mobile South Africa designed to display the phone number of the active SIM card currently inside your handset.

Who Can Use It:

Prerequisites & Exclusions:

How to Check the Mobile Number

Before You Start

  1. Ensure SIM Insertion: Confirm your Telkom SIM card is firmly seated in your mobile device.
  2. Check Signal: Ensure your phone displays network signal bars connected to the Telkom network.
  3. Dual-SIM Devices: If your phone holds two SIM cards, ensure you dial using the slot containing the Telkom SIM.

Verified Step-by-Step Process

  1. Open the Phone / Dialer App on your mobile handset.
  2. Key in *1# using the dial pad.
  3. Select the Call / Dial button (making sure to select SIM 1 or SIM 2 depending on where your Telkom card is located).
  4. Wait 2–3 seconds for the USSD session to complete.

Confirmation or Expected Result

When the session processes successfully, a pop-up alert dialog will appear on your phone screen displaying your full mobile number in local format:

“Your phone number is: 081 XXX XXXX”

No SMS message is sent; the result is displayed directly on screen.

Fees, Limits, Eligibility, and Processing Times

FeatureDetails
Service FeeR0.00 (Free service)
Airtime RequiredR0.00 (Works even with a R0 airtime balance)
Daily LimitsUnlimited requests
Processing TimeInstant (typically 1–5 seconds)
Account EligibilityActive Telkom Prepaid, Hybrid/TopUp, and Postpaid lines

Common Problems and Troubleshooting

Code, Session, SIM, or Account Errors

When the Service Has Changed or Is Unavailable

If the *1# direct shortcode is temporarily down due to maintenance, you can use these alternative methods:

  1. Dial *180# (Master Menu): Navigate through the on-screen self-service sub-menus to locate your account details.
  2. Place a Call / “Please Call Me”: Call another phone or send a free “Please Call Me” request using *140*[Recipient Number]# to see your number on the recipient’s caller ID.

Official Alternatives

If USSD is unavailable or you are using a router/data-only SIM where dialling shortcodes isn’t convenient, use Telkom’s official digital channels:

Safety and Privacy

⚠️ Important Security Notice:

Official Telkom USSD shortcodes like *1#*180#, and *188# will never ask you to enter your SIM PIN, secret One-Time PIN (OTP), or banking details just to view your phone number.

  • Never share OTPs: Do not supply PINs or passwords to anyone requesting them via SMS, WhatsApp, or phone calls claiming to be network support.
  • Scam Reporting: If you suspect fraudulent activity or unauthorized SIM requests, contact Telkom Customer Care at 180 or visit a Telkom physical store immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current USSD Code To Check Telkom Number?

The current verified USSD code for Telkom South Africa is *1#. It directly executes a popup query displaying your mobile number on-screen.

Which SIM slot must be selected?

You must dial the code specifically using the SIM slot that contains your Telkom SIM card. On dual-SIM devices, press the corresponding SIM icon (SIM 1 or SIM 2) when making the call request.

Will the number appear on-screen or by SMS?

The number appears immediately as an on-screen pop-up alert. You will not receive an SMS confirmation.

Does the method work on a new or unregistered SIM?

The SIM card must be RICA-registered and connected to the Telkom network. Un-RICA’d or completely deactivated SIMs will fail to connect to the network to execute USSD requests.

What should I do if the Telkom USSD route does not work?

Try toggling Airplane Mode, dialling another phone to view caller ID, or log into the MyTelkom App using mobile data to view your account details.

Quick shortcuts

Browse all guides

Fix a network problem

Why use USSDCode.co.za