Forgot Screen Time Passcode? Reset It

This guide shows you how to reset your Screen Time passcode when you’ve forgotten it. You’ll learn the exact steps to regain control of your device’s Screen Time settings, including what to do if you have a family organizer or if the standard recovery method doesn’t work. No data is lost in the process, and you’ll be back to managing your screen usage in minutes.

What You’ll Need

• Your device (iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch) with the forgotten Screen Time passcode
• Your Apple ID email address and password (the one used for iCloud on that device)
• A stable internet connection
• If you’re part of a Family Sharing group, the family organizer’s Apple ID and password (or their device to approve the reset)

Step-by-Step

1. Open Settings. On your iPhone or iPad, tap the Settings app (the gear icon).
2. Go to Screen Time. Scroll down and tap Screen Time. It’s usually about halfway down the list.
3. Tap “Change Screen Time Passcode.” This option is near the top of the Screen Time menu. If you have a child’s device managed through Family Sharing, you may see “Change Child’s Screen Time Passcode” instead.
4. Tap “Forgot Passcode?” A prompt will appear asking for your current passcode. Look for the “Forgot Passcode?” link and tap it.
5. Enter your Apple ID and password. You’ll be asked to sign in with the Apple ID that is associated with the device (the one used for iCloud or iTunes & App Store purchases). If you have two-factor authentication enabled, you’ll also need to enter the verification code sent to your trusted device.
6. Create a new passcode. After verification, you’ll be prompted to enter a new 4-digit passcode. Choose something you’ll remember, or use a password manager to store it.
7. Confirm the new passcode. Re-enter the new passcode to confirm. You’ll see a confirmation message that your Screen Time passcode has been changed.
8. Verify the change. Go back to the Screen Time menu and tap “Change Screen Time Passcode” again. Enter your new passcode to ensure it works. If it does, you’re all set.

Common Mistakes

• Using the wrong Apple ID: The Apple ID you use must be the one that set up Screen Time on that device. If you have multiple Apple IDs, try the one you use for iCloud or App Store purchases. If you’re a family organizer, use your own Apple ID, not your child’s.
• Not having a network connection: The reset requires an internet connection to verify your Apple ID. If you’re offline, the “Forgot Passcode?” option won’t work.
• Entering the wrong password repeatedly: Too many failed attempts can temporarily lock your Apple ID. Double-check your password before submitting.
• Skipping the confirmation step: After resetting, always test the new passcode immediately. If you forget it again, you’ll have to repeat the process.

Tips

• Use a memorable but secure passcode: Avoid obvious codes like 0000 or 1234. Consider using a random 4-digit number that you can still remember, or store it in a password manager.
• Set a recovery method: If you have a Mac, you can also reset the Screen Time passcode from there (System Settings > Screen Time > Options > Change Passcode > Forgot Passcode?). This works if you’re signed in with the same Apple ID.
• For Family Sharing: If you’re a parent or guardian, you can reset your child’s passcode from your own device: Settings > Screen Time > [Child’s Name] > Change Screen Time Passcode > Forgot Passcode? Then enter your own Apple ID.
• Keep your Apple ID secure: Since your Apple ID is the key to resetting the passcode, make sure you know it and keep it safe. Use a strong password and enable two-factor authentication.

Troubleshooting

• “Forgot Passcode?” is not appearing: If you don’t see the “Forgot Passcode?” option, make sure you’re on the latest iOS/iPadOS version. If it’s still missing, try restarting your device and checking again.
• Apple ID verification fails: If you can’t sign in, check that you’re using the correct Apple ID. If you’ve forgotten your Apple ID password, you’ll need to reset it first at iforgot.apple.com. If you’re in a Family Sharing group, the family organizer may need to approve the reset from their device.
• You’re not the family organizer: If the device is managed by a parent or guardian (e.g., a child’s device), only the family organizer can reset the passcode. You’ll need to ask them to do it from their device or enter their Apple ID on yours.
• Still can’t reset: If all else fails, you can erase the device and set it up as new. This will remove the Screen Time passcode, but also all data on the device. Make sure you have a backup before doing this. To erase: Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I lose my Screen Time data (like app limits or downtime schedules) when I reset the passcode?

No, resetting the passcode does not delete your Screen Time settings. Your app limits, downtime, and content restrictions remain intact. You just set a new passcode to manage them.

Can I reset the Screen Time passcode without an Apple ID?

No, you must have the Apple ID that was originally used to set up Screen Time. If you don’t have it, the only option is to erase the device and set it up as new, which removes all data.

What if I’m the family organizer and I forgot my own Screen Time passcode?

You can reset your own passcode using your Apple ID, just as described above. The process is the same for the organizer’s device.

Does resetting the Screen Time passcode affect my device’s other passwords (like the device passcode or Apple ID password)?

No, it only changes the Screen Time passcode. Your device passcode (the one you use to unlock the screen) and your Apple ID password remain unchanged.

Can I use a 6-digit passcode instead of 4 digits?

Screen Time passcodes are always 4 digits. You cannot change the length, but you can choose any 4-digit combination.

What if I don’t have an internet connection when trying to reset?

You’ll need to connect to Wi-Fi or cellular data. The reset process requires Apple ID verification, which needs an internet connection. If you’re offline, you’ll see an error message.

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