Flashing typically refers to changing the PRL. Typing in the MDN and MIN is programming which is done after you have that information. After you get an account with Cricket ask for your MIN, your MDN is your phone number. In my case I flashed the PRL and then dialed *611 to get service on my Droid. The Cricket service rep might tell you to dial *228 but on the Droid it usually doesn't work so you will have to do that part manually by going into the ##program menu. I hope that clarifies it. The flashing part can be done before going to the Cricket store but the rest can't be until you have an account with Cricket.