diff --git a/openpilot/common/esim/esim.py b/openpilot/common/esim/esim.py
index 8456d4dd47..cb155a1d88 100755
--- a/openpilot/common/esim/esim.py
+++ b/openpilot/common/esim/esim.py
@@ -50,6 +50,8 @@ if __name__ == '__main__':
   args = parser.parse_args()
 
   lpa = HARDWARE.get_sim_lpa()
+  if not lpa.is_euicc():
+    raise SystemExit("no eUICC detected")
   if args.cmd == 'switch':
     lpa.switch_profile(resolve_iccid(lpa, args.profile))
   elif args.cmd == 'delete':