How to check PTA tax — by IMEI, the official way

First, find the IMEI

Dial *#06# and the 15-digit IMEI appears. It is also printed on the box, and listed under About phone in Settings.

A dual-SIM or eSIM phone has two IMEIs. PTA requires both to be registered, so check both.

Is the phone PTA-approved? Check with 8484

This check is free and takes a minute. Any of three ways:

• Text the 15-digit IMEI to 8484
• Enter the IMEI on PTA's site, dirbs.pta.gov.pk
• Use PTA's DVS app (Android and iPhone)

The reply says whether the phone is "Compliant" (registered) or not. Buying second-hand, also check that the reply names the model you are holding.

• PTA — Device Verification System (DIRBS)

What will the tax be? The official answer

This is where most of the confusion is. According to PTA's own FAQ, the tax is set by FBR, and the way to learn the exact amount is to apply for registration through DRS — the amount arrives with the PSID. Or ask FBR directly.

The amount depends on FBR's value for the model, and on whether you register against a passport or a CNIC. FBR's valuations change, so the calculators online are estimates — and they often disagree with each other.

According to PTA there is no discount for registering within 60 days. After 60 days, a fine can apply under FBR's rules.

• PTA — DIRBS FAQs (14 October 2025)

How to register — step by step

You can apply in three places: the DRS portal (dirbs.pta.gov.pk/drs), by dialling *8484# from a local SIM registered in your name, or at any mobile operator's service centre or franchise.

1. Choose the category. If you arrived in Pakistan less than 60 days ago, the passport one (international traveller): passport number, CNIC/NICOP if you have one, the number of a SIM in your name, and the IMEI. Otherwise the CNIC one: CNIC, the number of a SIM on your CNIC, and the IMEI.
2. Submit the application. PTA has the IMEI verified with the manufacturer — typically 24 to 48 hours.
3. A PSID arrives — FBR's 17-digit payment number, with the tax amount, by SMS. It is valid for 7 days; unpaid, the application lapses.
4. Pay against the PSID at a branch of any commercial bank. According to PTA's FAQ, payment for IMEI registration cannot currently be made through online banking.
5. Restart the phone 3 to 4 hours after the payment is confirmed. If service has not returned within 24 hours while the status shows "Compliant", complain through PTA's Complaint Management System (CMS).

• PTA — Device Registration System (DRS)
• PTA — DIRBS FAQs (14 October 2025)

Worth knowing before you start

• One person can register up to 5 phones in a calendar year.
• The 60 days start the day a SIM goes in, and the same phone does not get a fresh 60 days on a later visit.
• Visiting from abroad? PTA's temporary registration is a different thing — 120 days, free.

• PTA's free 120-day registration

Not paying the tax? The other routes

If the phone only needs internet, not a Pakistani number, the tax is optional. The phone works fully on Wi-Fi, and outside, DIRBS does not apply to a data-only roaming eSIM — the phone never becomes a Pakistani operator's customer.

It has no number, calls or SMS — data only. eJurs plans start at Rs. 380.

• Data-only eSIM — what works and what doesn't
• PTA tax or a data eSIM?

What do I send to 8484?

The phone's 15-digit IMEI, by SMS. A dual-SIM or eSIM phone has two IMEIs — check both.

How much is PTA tax?

FBR sets it, by the phone's value and whether you register with a CNIC or a passport. The exact amount comes with the PSID when you apply through DRS; calculators online are estimates.

Can PTA tax be paid through JazzCash or online banking?

According to PTA's FAQ (14 October 2025), payment for IMEI registration cannot currently be made through online banking. Pay against the PSID at any commercial bank branch.

How long is a PSID valid?

7 days. If it is not paid in that time, the application lapses.

When will the phone work after paying?

Usually within 3 to 4 hours. Restart the phone; if it still has no service after 24 hours, complain through PTA's CMS.

Is the tax lower if I register within 60 days?

No. According to PTA there is no discount; after 60 days a fine can apply.