Can I reset my Apple ID password without my old password?

Yes. If you can verify your identity through a trusted device or another recovery method offered by Apple, you may be able to create a new password without knowing the old one.

Can I reset my Apple ID password without my email address?

It depends on what information you still have. You may be able to use a phone number associated with your Apple Account. If you don't remember either the associated email address or phone number, first try to identify the account before beginning recovery.

How long does Apple Account recovery take?

It can take several days or longer, depending on the circumstances. Apple provides instructions and information about the recovery process. The waiting period is a security measure and generally cannot be shortened by contacting Apple Support.

How to Reset Your Apple ID Password

Forgot your Apple ID password and can't sign in to iCloud, the App Store, or other Apple services? You can usually reset it using a trusted iPhone, iPad, or Mac. If you don't have access to a trusted device, you can try Apple's password-reset website or follow the account recovery process. Apple ID is now called Apple Account, but your existing email address or phone number and password still work.

The quickest way to reset your password is to use a trusted Apple device where you're already signed in. If you don't have one, start at iforgot.apple.com and follow Apple's verification instructions.

how to reset apple id password

How to Reset Apple ID Password
What If You Can't Reset Your Apple ID Password?
FAQs About Resetting an Apple ID Password
Final Thoughts

How to Reset Apple ID Password

If you forget your Apple ID password or cannot sign in to your Apple Account, you can reset it in several ways. The right method depends on whether you have access to a trusted device, a trusted phone number, or need to recover your account.

Your situation	Recommended method
You're signed in on an iPhone or iPad	Reset it in Settings
You're signed in on a Mac	Reset it in System Settings
You don't have your trusted device with you	Try iforgot.apple.com
You can borrow an iPhone or iPad	Use the Apple Support app
You can't verify your identity using the available options	Request account recovery

Method 1. Reset Your Apple ID Password on an iPhone or iPad

If you're already signed in to your Apple Account on an iPhone or iPad, this is usually the easiest option.

Step 1. Open Settings.
Step 2. Tap your name at the top of the screen.
Step 3. Select Sign-In & Security.
Step 4. Tap Change Password.
Step 5. Enter your device passcode if prompted.
Step 6. Follow the onscreen instructions to create a new password.

After the password changes, use your new password when signing in to Apple services that require it.

Note

Your iPhone or iPad passcode is not the same as your Apple Account password. The passcode unlocks your device; your Apple Account password is used to access your Apple Account and related services.

If you don't see your name in Settings because you're not signed in, or you can't complete the process, try another method below.

Method 2. Reset Your Apple ID Password on a Mac

You can also reset your Apple Account password from a Mac where you're already signed in.

Step 1. Open the Apple menu and select System Settings.
Step 2. Click your name in the sidebar.
Step 3. Select Sign-In & Security.
Step 4. Click Change Password.
Step 5. Enter your Mac login password if requested.
Step 6. Follow the onscreen instructions to set a new Apple Account password.

If you aren't signed in to your account on the Mac, look for the sign-in or forgotten-password options and follow the instructions provided. The exact labels may vary depending on your macOS version.

Method 3. Reset Your Apple ID Password at iforgot.apple.com

If you don't have access to a trusted iPhone, iPad, or Mac, Apple's official password-reset website is a good place to start.

Step 1. Open a browser and visit iforgot.apple.com.
Step 2. Enter the email address or phone number associated with your Apple Account, as requested.
Step 3. Follow the instructions to verify your identity.
Step 4. Complete any verification steps Apple offers for your account.
Step 5. If Apple allows you to reset your password, follow the prompts to finish the process.

Depending on your account, you may need access to a trusted phone number, a trusted device, a recovery contact, or another supported recovery factor.

Method 4. Use the Apple Support App on a Borrowed Device

If you don't have your own trusted Apple device available, you may be able to use the Apple Support app on a borrowed iPhone or iPad.

Step 1. Borrow an Apple device from a family member or friend, or use one at an Apple Store.
Step 2. Open the Apple Support app.
Step 3. Find Support Tools and select Reset Password.
Step 4. Choose Help Someone Else.
Step 5. Enter your Apple Account email address or phone number when prompted.
Step 6. Follow the onscreen instructions.

This option can help you begin the password-reset process without signing your account into the borrowed device. The available steps depend on your account and the recovery options Apple supports. Use only a device you trust, and do not share your password or verification codes with another person.

Method 5. Request Apple Account Recovery

If you can't use a trusted device and can't complete the available identity-verification steps, you may need to request account recovery. Start at iforgot.apple.com and follow the instructions to request recovery.

Apple may need time to verify that you own the account. The waiting period can be several days or longer, and Apple Support generally cannot shorten the required waiting period.

To avoid unnecessary delays:

Check whether you still have access to a trusted phone number.
Look for another Apple device where you may already be signed in.
Check whether you previously set up an account recovery contact or recovery key.
Follow Apple's instructions carefully after submitting your request.

If you regain access to a trusted device or remember your password during the process, check Apple's guidance before taking further action. Some account activity can affect or cancel a pending recovery request.

What If You Can't Reset Your Apple ID Password?

If none of the methods above works, identify the specific problem before trying another solution.

You No Longer Have Your Trusted Phone Number

Start with Apple's official recovery process. Depending on your account, other verification options may be available. If Apple cannot verify your identity immediately, you may need to request account recovery.

You Forgot Your Apple Account Email Address

Try email addresses or phone numbers that you may have associated with your account. Apple allows an associated email address or phone number to be used to sign in.

You can also review Apple's official account-access guidance: If you forgot your Apple Account password.

Your Apple Account Is Locked or Disabled

An account that is locked, inactive, or disabled may require a different process from an ordinary forgotten-password reset. Follow the instructions Apple provides for regaining access to a locked account: If your Apple Account is locked.

You Forgot Your iPhone Screen Passcode

Your iPhone screen passcode and Apple Account password are different credentials. Resetting your Apple Account password does not automatically reset a forgotten screen passcode. If you can't unlock your iPhone, follow Apple's separate instructions for a forgotten device passcode.

You Want to Remove an Apple Account from a Device

Removing an account from a device is different from resetting its password. If you own the device and need to remove an account, use Apple's supported account and device procedures. If Activation Lock is enabled, you may need the account credentials or help from Apple with appropriate proof of purchase.

If you own the device and need help with a supported unlocking scenario, TunesKit iPhone Unlocker is another option to consider. It offers features for removing certain iPhone screen locks and Apple ID-related locks under supported conditions. However, it does not reset your Apple Account password, recover your account, or guarantee Activation Lock removal on every device. Check the software's compatibility and requirements before proceeding, and use Apple's official account recovery process if you need to regain access to your Apple Account.

Key Features of TunesKit iPhone Unlocker

Remove Apple Account without password within 3 steps. Bypass Activation Lock, Screen Time, MDM and screen locks as well.

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FAQs About Resetting an Apple ID Password

Can I reset my Apple ID password without my old password?
Yes. If you can verify your identity through a trusted device or another recovery method offered by Apple, you may be able to create a new password without knowing the old one.
Can I reset my Apple ID password without my email address?
It depends on what information you still have. You may be able to use a phone number associated with your Apple Account. If you don't remember either the associated email address or phone number, first try to identify the account before beginning recovery.
How long does Apple Account recovery take?
It can take several days or longer, depending on the circumstances. Apple provides instructions and information about the recovery process. The waiting period is a security measure and generally cannot be shortened by contacting Apple Support.

Final Thoughts

The best way to reset your Apple ID password depends on which devices and recovery options you can access. Start with a trusted iPhone, iPad, or Mac if possible. Otherwise, use Apple's official website or follow the account recovery instructions. For account-security issues, use Apple's official support channels first. They can determine which recovery options are available for your specific account.

Brian Davis |

Brian Davis has 10+ years of experience in iOS troubleshooting. He turns complex Apple device issues into simple, actionable solutions.