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How to get and activate a FirstNet eSIM

A practical guide to FirstNet eSIM setup, activation, and device compatibility for first responders.

First responders and public safety professionals rely on stable communication.

FirstNet eSIM provides quick setup and direct access to the FirstNet network, eliminating the need for a physical SIM.

In this guide, I’ll cover what the FirstNet eSIM is, how to get it, and how to activate it. If you also need a separate data solution for travel or personal use, Holafly can run alongside your FirstNet line and offer unlimited data in many destinations worldwide.

In this article

FirstNet’s eSIM features for first responders

FirstNet is purpose-built for public safety, offering plans and network capabilities that commercial carriers can’t match. Here’s what’s available:

FirstNet eSIM plans for first responders

FirstNet offers several plans for public safety use:

FirstNet Mobile-Unlimited Plans for individual first responders. These include Unlimited Standard, which offers high-speed data, talk, and text, and Unlimited Enhanced, which adds unlimited hotspot use.
FirstNet Mobile-Pooled Plans for agencies managing multiple lines, with shared data across the group.
FirstNet Wireless Broadband Plans for tablets, laptops, modems, and other data-only devices.

International add-ons are available through options such as the International Daily Pass or Business Passport.

Features built for public safety

The FirstNet SIM card comes packed with features specifically designed to support the critical communication needs of first responders. This ensures that they stay connected and reliable during emergencies, even when commercial networks might be overwhelmed.

The feature set includes:

Feature	Description
Priority and Preemption (First Priority®)	Allows first responder traffic to move ahead of commercial users during network congestion.
Extended Primary User Uplift	Certain support agencies can be temporarily elevated to primary priority levels during major incidents.
Dedicated Band 14 Spectrum	Functions as a public-safety-only lane that can be cleared for FirstNet users when needed.
No Throttling	FirstNet is federally mandated never to slow down data speeds for first responders anywhere in the US.
Enhanced In-Building Coverage (HPUE)	Band 14 enables HPUE devices to transmit with higher power, thereby improving coverage in areas such as basements, elevators, garages, and rural locations.
Dedicated Security Operations Center	A secure core monitored 24/7 to protect public safety communications from cyber threats.

Primary vs. extended primary users

The primary differences between FirstNet plans for primary subscribers and extended primary users lie in the automatic availability of priority and preemption, as well as the ability to manually “uplift” priority levels during a crisis.

Primary users include law enforcement, fire departments, EMS, 9-1-1 centers, and emergency management agencies. They receive First Priority® at no extra cost, complete preemption at all times, and access to the dedicated FirstNet core.
Extended primary users include utilities, hospitals, transportation, and public works. Priority is optional and added for an extra fee. Their priority level may be lower than that of primary users unless temporarily elevated during an incident. They typically operate on the commercial AT&T core but still gain access to Band 14 and deployable support.

FirstNet eSIM-compatible devices

FirstNet eSIMs only work on devices that meet two conditions: the phone must be certified as a FirstNet Ready® model, and it must support eSIM technology.

How to check if your device is FirstNet Ready®

FirstNet Ready® devices undergo a strict certification process that verifies support for Band 14, priority access, conformance to standards, durability, security, and network performance validation.

This certification ensures your device will function reliably on FirstNet’s network, whether you’re responding to emergencies domestically or need connectivity while traveling internationally.

Here’s how to do a FirstNet IMEI check:

iPhone: Settings > General > About.
Android: Settings > System > About device (or About phone).

How to confirm eSIM support

Being FirstNet Ready® doesn’t guarantee eSIM capability. You’ll need to confirm eSIM support separately.

Here’s how:

iPhone: Models from XS (released in 2018) onward support eSIM.
Android: Many Samsung, Google Pixel, and recent devices support eSIM, but not all do. To confirm your Android device supports eSIM, check our list of phones that support eSIM technology.

How to get a FirstNet eSIM

Getting a FirstNet eSIM involves three main steps: creating your FirstNet ID, verifying your eligibility as a first responder or public safety professional, and activating the eSIM profile on your compatible device.

Creating your FirstNet ID

You can complete this process online through the FirstNet Central portal, by visiting a local AT&T store, or by calling FirstNet’s customer service at 800-574-7000

Verification requirements

FirstNet requires strict eligibility checks for anyone activating an eSIM, and the process differs slightly depending on whether the line is subscriber-paid or agency-paid.

All users must also create a FirstNet ID, which is the login used to manage the account, upload verification documents, and activate the eSIM.

Subscriber-paid vs. agency-paid accounts

Individuals pay for their own line and must complete verification themselves or through their agency.

Self-Verified Subscriber Paid (SVSP): This is where users can upload important documents like an agency ID, pay stub, certification, or an employment letter. The verification process is managed through services such as SheerID, and users will need to go through periodic re-verification.
Agency-Verified Subscriber Paid (AVSP): In this setup, the user takes care of the bill, but an agency administrator steps in to approve eligibility within 14 days after signing up. Plus, administrators keep things in check with regular audits.

The agency pays for the service and verifies eligibility internally. Users typically don’t submit documents themselves because the agency confirms employment status for all associated lines.

Accepted documentation includes employer-issued photo IDs, recent pay stubs, state or national certifications, or official employment letters.

How to activate your FirstNet eSIM

Once your line is approved and your device is confirmed as FirstNet Ready®, you can activate your FirstNet service in two ways.

Activate through the FirstNet Central portal:

Log in with your FirstNet ID.
Go to the device or line you want to activate.
Select the option to change or activate a SIM.
Enter the device IMEI and EID (Embedded Identity Document) when prompted. An EID is a unique, 32-digit serial number embedded in a device’s eSIM chip serving as its secure digital footprint.
The portal will push the eSIM profile to your device.
On your phone, go to Settings > Cellular (iPhone) or Settings > Connections > SIM manager (Android) to complete installation.

Activate by scanning a FirstNet eSIM QR code:

Connect the device to WiFi.
Remove any physical SIM if you’re replacing an existing line.
Open your device’s cellular settings:

iPhone: Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan
Android: Settings > Connections > SIM card manager > Add mobile plan

Scan the QR code provided by FirstNet or AT&T.
Follow the prompts and label the new line.

If your eSIM is still not working, you can contact FirstNet Customer Service at 800-574-7000.

How to install your FirstNet eSIM

In most cases, your eSIM profile will install automatically after activation when your device connects to WiFi. If it doesn’t, follow these manual installation steps:

iPhone:

Look for a banner that says “Carrier Cellular Plan Ready to Be Installed.”
Just tap on it, or head over to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan.
Follow the prompts until the FirstNet line appears as active.

If you have a QR code, select “Use QR Code” in the Add Cellular Plan screen.

Android:

A setup prompt may appear when WiFi is enabled.

If not, open:

Samsung: Settings > Connections > SIM card manager > Add mobile plan
Pixel: Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > + Add a SIM

Then, scan the QR code (if provided) to confirm the new plan and complete the installation.

Once installed, the status bar should display “FirstNet,” and you can verify settings in your device’s carrier menu.

Other carriers offering eSIM in the US

FirstNet is the only network built through a federal partnership with its own dedicated core and Band 14 spectrum. However, several major US carriers, including Verizon, Comcast, and T-Mobile, also offer eSIM service and public-safety-focused programs.

These alternatives provide priority features, although they operate on commercial network cores rather than a purpose-built public safety network.

Holafly is another option, useful not for emergency services, but as a travel or data-only eSIM USA, for those who need connectivity abroad while keeping their FirstNet line active at home.

Holafly

If you already rely on FirstNet for duty-critical communication but need a separate data option for international travel or personal use, Holafly (see our Holafly Shop) can be a great option.

We offer data-only eSIMs for over 160 destinations, along with Holafly Plans that include unlimited data and provide quick setup via QR code or in-app installation. It’s useful for travelers, digital nomads, and anyone needing temporary or recurring data service outside the US without affecting their FirstNet line.

Frequently asked questions about FirstNet eSIM

Does FirstNet support eSIM on all devices?

No. Your device must support eSIM hardware and be certified as FirstNet Ready®. Use the official compatibility checker to confirm your model.

How do I switch from a physical SIM to an eSIM on FirstNet?

You can switch through the FirstNet portal, by calling customer support at 800-574-7000, or at a local AT&T store. After requesting the eSIM switch, follow the activation steps in your device settings and remove the physical SIM card.

Does FirstNet work internationally?

Yes, but coverage outside the US requires an international roaming add-on such as the International Daily Pass or Business Passport mentioned earlier. If you’re looking for wider coverage or want to save on data costs while traveling, you might want to check out a separate travel eSIM, like Holafly.

Disclaimer: The data in this article is accurate as of December 12, 2025, and is subject to change.

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Tom O'Leary

SEO Content Specialist

I am a Liverpool-based SEO content specialist with years of experience crafting content that connects. I combine my love for clear communication with a passion for travel and languages (currently diving into Japanese!). At Holafly, I'm here to help you understand everything about staying connected abroad, turning technical jargon into straightforward advice you can actually use.

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