How to Change Passcode on iPhone
Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode > Change Passcode, enter your current passcode, then enter and confirm a new one. Tap Passcode Options if you want to use a 4-digit, custom numeric, or alphanumeric code.
Want to change the passcode you use to unlock your iPhone? If you still know your current passcode, you can replace it in just a few steps through Settings. You can also switch between a 6-digit code, 4-digit code, custom numeric code, or alphanumeric passcode. If you've forgotten your current or recently changed passcode, the process is different. We'll cover those situations later in this guide.
How to Change Passcode on iPhone
If you still know your current iPhone passcode, you can change it easily in Settings without losing any data. The process only takes a few steps and works on most recent iPhone models, including those with Face ID or Touch ID.
- Step 1. Open Settings on your iPhone.
- Step 2. Tap Face ID & Passcode. On models with Touch ID, tap Touch ID & Passcode instead.
- Step 3. Enter your current passcode.
- Step 4. Scroll down and tap Change Passcode.
- Step 5. Enter your current passcode again if prompted.
- Step 6. Enter your new passcode, then enter it again to confirm. Your new passcode takes effect immediately.
Change to a 4-Digit or Custom Passcode
By default, iPhone uses a 6-digit numeric passcode. If you want a different format, tap Passcode Options while creating the new code. You can choose from:
- Custom Alphanumeric Code
- Custom Numeric Code
- 4-Digit Numeric Code
A longer custom numeric or alphanumeric passcode generally provides stronger protection than a simple 4-digit code.
What If You Forgot Your New iPhone Passcode?
If you recently changed your iPhone passcode and then forgot the new one, you may not need to erase the device. On iOS 17 and later, Apple allows you to use your previous passcode once within 72 hours after changing it.
- Step 1. Enter the incorrect new passcode until the recovery option appears.
- Step 2. Tap Forgot Passcode?
- Step 3. Choose the Enter Previous Passcode option to use your previous passcode.
- Step 4. Enter the old passcode.
- Step 5. Create a new passcode.
This feature is designed to help if you accidentally forget a newly created passcode.
How to Disable the 72-Hour Previous Passcode
If you changed your passcode because someone else knew the old one, you may want to disable the previous passcode immediately instead of leaving it usable for 72 hours.
Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode > Expire Previous Passcode Now. Once expired, the previous passcode can no longer be used to reset the new one.
What If You Forgot Your Current iPhone Passcode?
Further Reading: [6 Ways] How to Unlock iPhone If You Forgot Passcode
If you've forgotten the existing passcode and the 72-hour previous-passcode option isn't available, you generally can't simply change it through Settings. Instead, you'll need to reset or erase the device before setting a new passcode.
Method 1. Use Apple's Passcode Reset Options
If you've forgotten your current iPhone passcode, Apple's built-in reset options are the best place to start. Depending on your iOS version and device status, you may be able to reset access directly from the Lock Screen using your Apple Account.
- Step 1. After you enter wrong passcode for several times, Apple may provide an onscreen Forgot Passcode? or reset option from the Lock Screen.
- Step 2. Tap Start iPhone Reset.
- Step 3. Follow the instructions shown on your iPhone and authenticate with the associated Apple Account when required.
Keep in mind that resetting a forgotten passcode may erase the device.
Method 2. Use Recovery Mode
If you can't reset the iPhone from the Lock Screen, use Recovery Mode with a computer.
- Step 1. On a Mac, use Finder. On newer Windows setups, use the Apple Devices app. On older Windows setups, use the iTunes app.
- Step 2. Put the iPhone into Recovery Mode, then choose the available restore option. After the restore is complete, you can set up the iPhone again and create a new passcode.
If you have a recent backup, you can restore your data afterward.
Method 3. Use TunesKit iPhone Unlocker
If you're locked out of an iPhone you own or are authorized to manage, TunesKit iPhone Unlocker is another option for supported screen-lock situations. It can be used in scenarios involving forgotten screen passcodes, iPhone Unavailable, or Security Lockout. Compatibility and the exact process depend on the iPhone model, iOS version, and security settings. Because removing a forgotten screen lock can erase device data, review the onscreen instructions and backup availability before proceeding.
Key Features of TunesKit iPhone Unlocker
Unlock passcode for iPhone with simple steps. Available on the latest iOS version including iOS 27.
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iPhone Passcode vs. Apple Account Password
An iPhone passcode and an Apple Account password are different credentials.
| Credential | What It Protects | Where to Change It |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone passcode | Unlocks the iPhone | Settings > Face ID & Passcode |
| Apple Account password | Protects iCloud and Apple services | Settings > [your name] > Sign-In & Security |
If you're trying to change the password for your Apple Account rather than the Lock Screen passcode, use the Apple Account security settings instead.
FAQs About Changing iPhone Passcode
-
Does changing my iPhone passcode erase data?
No. Changing the passcode normally through Settings does not erase your data.
-
Does changing my passcode affect Face ID?
No. Face ID remains set up after a normal passcode change, although your iPhone may ask for the new passcode before Face ID can be used again.
-
Can I change my iPhone passcode without the old one?
Normally, you need the current passcode to change it in Settings. If you recently changed the passcode on iOS 17 or later, you may be able to use the previous passcode within 72 hours. Otherwise, you may need to reset the device.
Conclusion
If you know your current passcode, the easiest way to change it is through Settings > Face ID & Passcode > Change Passcode. You can also choose a different passcode format using Passcode Options. If you recently forgot a new passcode, try Apple's 72-hour previous-passcode feature first. For other lockout situations, you may need to reset the iPhone, use Recovery Mode, or consider a supported tool such as TunesKit iPhone Unlocker.
