What Is Screen Time Passcode and How to Reset It on iPhone

Samuel Spenser Published on September 19, 2025Unlock iOS4-min reading

As iPhone users increasingly value privacy and habit management, screen time passwords have become an important tool for many to control their devices. However, once this passcode is forgotten, some functions of the phone may be limited, and daily use may be affected. Faced with this situation, many people feel anxious about how to regain full control of their devices quickly. In fact, with the right approach, forgetting the screen time passcode can also be quickly resolved, not only restoring normal use of the iPhone, but also continuing to manage the contents of the phone securely.

Part 1. What Is Screen Time Passcode

Before we get started, let's take a look at what is screen time passcode. These are a set of four—or six-digit passwords that manage device usage time and app access rights. They are primarily used for parental controls or self-management, helping users limit use of specific apps, set daily screen time, or even prevent unauthorized changes to Settings. By enabling this password, you can ensure that your children or you can't easily bypass usage restrictions and maintain healthy usage habits.

For many users, the iPhone screen time passcode is not just a control tool, but a security measure that prevents important content from being modified or deleted at will. If you're considering enabling this feature, understanding what it does and how it works is the first step, and will help you quickly take action if you forget your password.

Part 2. How to Set Screen Time Passcode on iPhone

Setting a screen time passcode for your iPhone can effectively manage device usage time and protect privacy. The specific operation steps are as follows:

By following these steps, you can successfully set the iPhone screen time passcode and effectively control your device's use time. If you forget your passcode in the future, you can also follow the prompts to unlock iPhone with or without Apple ID.

Part 3. What Would Happen If You Forgot Screen Time Passcode

If you forgot the screen time passcode, your iPhone will temporarily lock the screen time function based on the number of consecutive incorrect entries. The specific rules are shown in the following table:

Therefore, if you can't remember the screen time passcode, it is recommended not to try it too often, as this may lead to a longer lockout. To avoid affecting normal use, you can master the method of how to recover screen time passcode or how to remove screen time passcode in advance so that even if you forget the password, you can also quickly regain control of the iPhone.

Part 4. How to Reset or Remove Screen Time Passcode

When you forget the screen time passcode, Apple officially provides several ways to help users retrieve or remove the password. The different methods and their applicable scenarios are described in detail below.

Via Settings

• For users who remember their Apple ID and password.

This is the most secure method and is suitable for most users. It solves the problem of can't remember screen time passcode without losing data.

Via iTunes

• For users who forgot their Apple ID or failed to authenticate.

• iPhone 8 and above: Quickly press volume up, then volume down, and the power button until you enter recovery mode.

• iPhone 7 series: Press and hold the power button and volume down keys at the same time until you see the recovery mode screen.

• iPhone 6s and below or iPad: Press and hold the home button and the power button at the same time until you enter recovery mode.

This method removes all content and settings, and sometimes leaves the iPad stuck in recovery mode, in case you forget your password and can't use your Apple ID.

Part 5. Best Tool to Remove Screen Time Passcode

When you forget your screen time password, use a professional tool to quickly and safely resolve the problem. imyPass iPassGo is an efficient unlocking tool that is especially suitable for iPhone and iPad users.

Conclusion

Forgetting your screen time password doesn't mean you lose control of your device. Once you understand what is a screen time passcode and follow the steps outlined in this article, you can easily reset or remove it. For a more hassle-free experience, try imyPass iPassGo, which unlocks your iPhone or iPad in a few steps and quickly restores normal use.