Your Passcode Is Required to Enable Touch ID on iPhone/iPad [Guide]

Samuel Spenser Published on July 11, 2025Unlock iOS3-min reading

You are not alone. It happens to many people, and it can be a confusing experience. But do not worry; we are here to help you clear things out.

In this guide, we will explain why Touch ID asks for a passcode sometimes. We will also show you how to resolve this issue when it appears. And even better, we will give you a way to use Touch ID without needing a passcode at all. Let us fix this together!

Part 1: Why Does Touch ID Ask for a Passcode

1. Security Reasons

• fter a Restart/Reboot

When you restart your iPhone, Touch ID gets locked. It is normal. Your iPhone wants to double-check who you are. The first time you open it after a restart, it prompts you for your passcode.

• Too Many Failed Attempts

If Touch ID does not read your fingerprint correctly five times, it stops working. It is to block someone who may try to guess your fingerprint. After that, only your passcode can unlock the phone.

• iOS Updates

After a system update, your iPhone may ask for the passcode. It helps ensure that no one interferes with your phone during the update. It is a safety step that Apple uses to protect your data.

• 48-Hour Security Rule

If you do not unlock your iPhone with a passcode or Touch ID within 48 hours, it will prompt you to enter the passcode again. It is Apple's way of checking if the phone is still in the right hands.

2. Technical Reasons

• Sensor Moisture/Dirt

If the fingerprint sensor is wet or dirty, Touch ID may not work. Your phone cannot read your fingerprint the right way, so it asks for your passcode instead.

• Fingerprint Changes (Cuts & Dry Skin)

If your finger is hurt or dry, Touch ID may not work. Your fingerprint looks different from the sensor, and the iPhone cannot match it. So, the phone asks for your passcode.

• Software Glitches

Sometimes, bugs or errors in the system can interfere with the operation of Touch ID. If it becomes confused, it turns off Touch ID and prompts you to enter your passcode until the problem is resolved.

Part 2: Can You Use Touch ID Without a Passcode

The question now is, can you use Touch ID without a passcode? Unfortunately, no, you cannot use Touch ID without setting up a passcode. Apple made it that way on purpose. The passcode is like the main key. Touch ID is just a quick helper. If Touch ID stops working, your iPhone still needs a passcode to stay safe. That is why it sometimes asks for the passcode.

However, there is a safe tool that can help if you are locked out and have forgotten the passcode. Try imyPass iPassGo to unlock your iPhone without a passcode. It is a simple and safe unlocker that works on all iPhones, iPads, and iPods, even the latest iOS 18. It can also remove Touch ID, Face ID, and both 4-digit and 6-digit codes.

It only takes a few clicks. Connect your device, follow the steps, and it will do the work for you.

Part 3: How to Fix "Enter Passcode to Enable Touch ID"

Touch ID not working right can be annoying. The message "Enter Passcode to Enable Touch ID" indicates that your iPhone requires you to unlock it using the traditional method. After that, Touch ID should turn back on. Below are the real fixes you can try for each cause:

1. After a Restart/Reboot

Just type in your passcode once. After that, Touch ID will start working again. You do not have to do anything else. It is how Apple made it work.

2. Too Many Failed Attempts

Enter the correct passcode. Then, try to clean your finger and the sensor. Be sure your finger is dry. After this, you can try Touch ID again.

3. iOS Updates

After an update, unlock your iPhone using your passcode. Then, go to Settings > Touch ID & Passcode to check if everything is still turned on. If Touch ID is off, turn it back on.

4. 48-Hour Security Rule

It is just part of how Apple keeps your phone secure. Enter your passcode when asked. It will turn Touch ID back on. You do not need to change anything else.

5. Sensor Moisture/Dirt

Clean the sensor with a dry cloth. Wash and dry your hands, too. Try again. If it still does not work, restart your phone or reset your Touch ID.

6. Fingerprint Changes

If your fingerprint looks different, go to Settings > Touch ID & Passcode > Fingerprints. Delete the old one and add a new fingerprint. Make sure your finger is clean and dry.

7. Software Glitches

Restart your iPhone first. If that does not help, go to Settings > Touch ID & Passcode and toggle Touch ID on and off. If the issue persists, try a full iOS update or reset all settings.

Conclusion

Now you understand why your iPhone says, "Enter passcode to enable Touch ID". It is not a mistake. It is how Apple keeps your device safe. When something changes, or your phone has not been used for a while, it prompts you to enter the passcode first. It is normal and part of how Touch ID works.

However, if you forget your passcode, you will be unable to use Touch ID. That is when imyPass iPassGo helps. It unlocks your iPhone without needing a passcode. It is quick, simple, and works even if your phone is disabled.

So now you know what to do next time. Just rely on imyPass iPassGo and unlock your iPhone fast.