How to Fix iPhone Passcode Expired Error: Causes and 5 Fixes

Samuel Spenser Published on September 14, 2026Unlock iOS4-min reading

Why does the "Passcode Expired" message suddenly appear on your iPhone? No matter what you do, the message keeps returning. In this case, you can't access your iPhone data and use it normally. So, how can you fix this issue? Don't panic! This guide will explain what the iPhone Passcode Expired error means, why it happens, and practical solutions to fix it.

Part 1: What Does iPhone Passcode Expired Mean?

The "iPhone Passcode Expired" message means that your current lock screen passcode no longer meets the security requirements set on your device. When this happens, your iPhone may say passcode expired and ask you to create a new passcode before you can continue using it.

For most personal iPhones, the lock screen passcode does not expire automatically. This error is usually related to device management settings, such as MDM profiles installed by a school or company.

Part 2: Why Does iPhone Passcode Expire?

It's important to understand why your iPhone says "Passcode Expired." The lock screen passcode does not expire automatically, even if the passcode is considered weak. However, if your iPhone is managed by a school, company, or other organization, an MDM (Mobile Device Management) profile allows administrators to set passcode requirements, including expiration periods. When the required period is reached, your iPhone may display the "Passcode Expired" message and ask you to create a new passcode. Other possible reasons include temporary iOS glitches or an outdated iOS version.

Part 3: How to Fix iPhone Passcode Expired – 5 Ways

Fix 1: Change your iPhone Passcode

When you see the Passcode Expired error on your iPhone, it usually comes with a button, like Continue or Change Passcode. Tap the button and follow the on-screen instructions to set a new passcode.

If you still can access your iPhone, you can reset your passcode to prevent the error occurs again.

Note: If you want to adjust the passcode option, tap Passcode Options, and pick the desired one.

Fix 2: Force Restart Your iPhone

If your iPhone gets stuck on the passcode has expired screen, you can force restart your device to solve the problem quickly. This solution helps you fix it temporarily so that you can update your passcode.

On an iPhone 8 or Later

Press and quickly release the Volume Up button.

Press and quickly release the Volume Down button.

Long-press the Side button until you see the Apple logo.

On an iPhone 7/7 Plus

Hold down the Volume Down + Side buttons together.

When the Apple logo shows up, release the buttons.

On an iPhone 6s or Earlier

Hold down the Home + Power buttons simultaneously.

Let buttons go when the Apple logo appears.

Fix 3: Update iOS Version

If you are running an old version of iOS on your iPhone and the error that your iPhone unlock passcode has expired keeps occurring, you can update software to solve the problem on your device efficiently.

Fix 4: Check and Remove MDM Restrictions

If you see the "Passcode Expired" message, check whether your iPhone has an MDM profile. If your iPhone is actually under a remote management, you need to contact the administrator to change the policy or remove MDM from your iPhone.

Fix 5: Restore iPhone in Recovery Mode

Another solution to fix iPhone unlock passcode expired is restoring your device. This method will factory reset your iPhone and erase all data. You’d better back up your device first.

Part 4: Remove MDM to Fix iPhone Passcode Expired - Easiest Way

If you cannot contact the administrator and remove the MDM restrictions manually, imyPass iPassGo can help you efficiently get rid of the passcode expired error. It allows you to remove MDM restrictions from your iPhone, iPad, or iPod and regain control of your device without password. Its interface is user-friendly, and even beginners can operate it with ease.

Conclusion

Now, you should understand what causes the iPhone Passcode Expired error and how to fix it. You can perform our solutions one by one to solve the problem. If the error is caused by an MDM profile, imyPass iPassGo is your ultimate solution to remove MDM from your iPhone and fix the issue completely.