Simple Guide on How to Reset Screen Time Password for iOS

Penny Warren Published on July 25, 2025Unlock iOS3-min reading

Have you set a Screen Time passcode for your child only to forget it unexpectedly? Or are you a second-hand device user who found that the Screen Time feature cannot be turned off? In either case, being locked out of your Screen Time settings can be incredibly frustrating. Many users try to solve the problem by restoring factory settings, which results in data loss, a trade-off that isn't worth it. Actually, you can reset the Screen Time passcode through safer and more effective methods, without needing to erase device data or having the original Apple ID. Next, we will introduce you to several practical solutions to help you easily master how to reset screen time passcode and regain control of your iPhone or iPad.

Part 1. Reset Screen Time Passcode on iPhone/iPad

If you still remember the current screen time passcode, then the reset process is actually very simple. You can directly change it to a new passcode in the settings; the entire process requires no additional tools and will not affect any data, making it one of the safest and officially recommended methods. Whether you are using an iPhone or an iPad, the steps are almost the same.

This method applies to most devices and system versions and is the most direct and effective solution to the problem of how to reset the screen time passcode on an iPhone or iPad. If you have forgotten the old password or if your device prompts you that you cannot access the Screen Time settings, then you will need to refer to the following sections. We will introduce how to reset the Screen Time passcode without remembering the original password or even having an Apple ID.

Part 2. Reset Screen Time Passcode Without the Old One

If you forget the screen time password, you may be unable to modify or disable the settings, which can greatly affect your user experience, especially when time limits have been set for children or yourself. If you are searching for how to reset the screen time password but do not have the old password, don't worry. Here are three feasible solutions applicable to different situations.

1. imyPass iPassGo

If you have forgotten your old password and do not want to use your Apple ID, imyPass iPassGo is the most recommended professional tool for removing the screen time passcode with one click without data loss.

After successful removal, the device will automatically restart, and the screen time passcode will be completely cleared. This method is particularly suitable for users who want to know how to reset the screen time passcode without an Apple ID, as it is currently the most direct solution that does not affect data.

2. Using Apple ID (If Enabled)

If you linked your Apple ID while setting up Screen Time and enabled the password recovery feature, you can reset your password through Apple's official channels.

This method is safe, risk-free, and applicable to most iOS devices. If you are searching for how to reset the screen time passcode on an iPhone and remember your Apple ID, this is the official method that is most recommended.

3. Without Apple ID (Full Reset Required)

Suppose you have forgotten the Screen Time passcode and cannot use your Apple ID to recover it. In that case, the only official solution is to erase the device and set it up again, which usually applies to devices with iCloud lock enabled.

• iPhone 8 and later: Quickly press the volume up button and then the volume down button, then press and hold the side button until the recovery screen appears.

• iPhone 7/7 Plus: Press and hold the volume down and power buttons simultaneously.

• iPhone 6s or earlier: Press and hold the home button and power button simultaneously.

Although this method is effective, the device data will be erased. It is recommended that the data be backed up in advance so that it can be restored from the iCloud backup. This applies to extreme situations where you need to reset a screen time passcode without an Apple ID.

Part 3. Troubleshooting Common Issues

Many users encounter unexpected issues when trying to reset the Screen Time passcode, such as the Forgot Passcode option not appearing, Apple ID unable to be verified, and the passcode remaining effective after removal. This section will help you troubleshoot these common obstacles one by one to ensure the entire process is completed smoothly.

"Forgot Passcode?" Option Not Appearing

Some users have found that they forgot their password. The button is not displayed in the settings interface when trying to reset their password through Apple ID. This situation typically occurs because:

• The screen time password was set without linking to an Apple ID.

• The iOS version is outdated and does not support password recovery features.

• The device is in the child device mode and cannot change the parental controls on iPhone.

Solutions:

• Ensure the system is updated to iOS 13.4 or higher.

• Go to Settings > Apple ID > Screen Time to confirm the linking status.

• If it still doesn't work, you can use imyPass iPassGo to forcibly remove the password restrictions, which is also a mainstream method for how to reset the screen time password.

Apple ID Not Working for Reset

Have you already seen the Forgot Password? Option, but receive a verification failure message after entering your Apple ID. It could be for several reasons:

• The Apple ID was entered incorrectly or is inconsistent with the ID used during setup.

• An unstable network is causing authentication failure.

• Apple servers are temporarily unavailable.

Solutions:

• Check if you are using the original Apple ID linked to the device.

• Switch Wi-Fi networks or try again later.

• Log in to the official Apple ID website (appleid.apple.com) to confirm the account status.

Passcode Still Active After Reset

Sometimes, users complete the reset process and even clear the device through recovery mode, but after setting up the device again, the Screen Time passcode still exists. This is usually because:

• iCloud settings were not completely cleared, and the system automatically restored the original settings.

• Screen Time information was restored from the iCloud backup.

Solutions:

• When restoring the device, choose Set up as a new iPhone/iPad, but do not restore from the iCloud backup.

• If you must use a backup, go to settings immediately after restoration to delete or change the passcode.

• It is recommended to use third-party tools for thorough clearing to avoid configuration files being automatically restored.

Conclusion

Forgetting the screen time passcode is not a big deal. Whether you want to learn how to reset the screen time password on an iPhone or iPad, or you don't have an Apple ID, this guide offers clear and effective solutions. If you need to quickly and safely remove the passcode, imyPass iPassGo is the most recommended tool. It is easy to use and can unlock the device effortlessly without the old password.