Yes, unlocking phones is legal in Texas under federal law, but carriers may impose contractual penalties. The Texas Attorney General’s 2023 guidance aligns with the 2014 Unlocking Consumer Choice and Wireless Competition Act, permitting device unlocking post-contract or with carrier consent. Local enforcement remains limited, though the Texas Public Utility Commission monitors compliance with federal unlocking rules.
Key Regulations for Unlocking Phones in Texas
- Federal Preemption: Texas defers to the Unlocking Consumer Choice and Wireless Competition Act (P.L. 113-144), which prohibits carriers from imposing permanent locks post-2015. Devices purchased after January 1, 2015, must be unlockable upon request if the contract is fulfilled or the device is paid in full.
- Carrier-Specific Policies: Major Texas carriers (AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon) comply with FCC mandates but retain discretion over unlocking timelines. For example, AT&T requires 60 days of active service post-paid contract completion before unlocking eligibility.
- Fraud Prohibitions: The Texas Penal Code §33.02 criminalizes unauthorized access to locked devices, including circumventing carrier restrictions via software tools. Violations may result in misdemeanor charges, particularly if intent to defraud is established.