Is it possible to find someone’s location by mobile number?

My teenager has been staying out way past curfew without answering my calls, and I’m starting to get genuinely worried about where he’s going. I know law enforcement can ping cell towers, but I’m wondering if there’s any legitimate way for an everyday parent to track a device using just the digits without needing physical access to install an app first. Has anyone actually had real luck doing this, or is the idea of tracking a device without pre-installed software just a Hollywood myth?

You can’t legally or practically track a phone just using its number without installed apps or consent. Most reliable options require prior setup or family location sharing services.