Its required to activate the line in the system. But with every android phone from Sprint they just over the air activate. So honestly if you wanted they could leave it in the box and you can just turn it on when you get home. Problem being if something goes wrong with the activation you may need a second trip into the store to get it resolved. So I guess you can weigh out the issue of letting them make sure its good in the store, or taking it home and doing it yourself, and if something wasn't right trying to get back in on a busy day to get them to fix the issue.