Forgot Screen Time Passcode? How to Reset It on iPhone and iPad

Samuel Spenser Published on September 24, 2026Unlock iOS3-min reading

Forgot your Screen Time passcode on your iPhone or iPad? Whether you set it for your child or forgot it on your own device, being locked out of Screen Time settings can be frustrating. Many users try to restore their devices to fix this issue, but that may result in unnecessary data loss. In this guide, we will show you how to reset Screen Time passcode with safer and more effective methods.

Part 1: How to Change Screen Time Passcode If You Know Passcode

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 is the easiest way to reset a Screen Time passcode if you still remember the current one. If you forgot the passcode or cannot access Screen Time settings, try the solutions below to reset it using other recovery options.

Part 2: How to Reset Screen Time Passcode with Apple ID

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.

Part 3: How to Reset Screen Time Passcode Without Apple ID

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 4: Easiest Way to Remove Screen Time Passcode

If you still cannot remove the Screen Time restrictions after trying the methods above, you may need a dedicated Screen Time remover. imyPass iPassGo is the most recommended professional tool. It is easy to use, even if you are not familiar with technical tools. Using iPassGo, you can bypass the screen time passcode with one click without data loss.

Part 5: Troubleshooting Screen Time Passcode Reset 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 cannot find the "Forgot Passcode?" option when trying to reset your Screen Time passcode. This issue may happen 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.