How to Change Screen Time Passcode When You Forgot?

By Andy Samuel to iPhone Tips | 2025-05-20
Approved

Apple's Screen Time is a valuable feature for managing device usage, tracking app activity, and setting parental controls—especially on a child's iPhone or iPad. However, forgetting the Screen Time passcode can lock you out of these settings. Don’t worry—this guide will show you exactly how to change the Screen Time passcode, even if you've forgotten it, with or without Apple ID access.

How to change Screen Time passcode if you forgot password and without Apple ID credentials? Download PassFab iPhone Unlock at no cost to effectively remove the Screen Time passcode wthout data loss!

Part 1: What Is Screen Time Passcode?

The Screen Time passcode is a 4- or 6-digit PIN designed to protect your Screen Time settings from unauthorized changes. It prevents others from modifying app limits, accessing restricted content, or turning off Screen Time altogether. First introduced in iOS 12, this feature has become a vital tool for parents looking to manage and supervise their children's iPhone or iPad usage.

Key functions protected by the Screen Time passcode include:

  • Setting app limits
  • Restricting content and privacy settings
  • Controlling purchases and downloads
  • Setting downtime schedules

Part 2: How to Change Screen Time Passcode on iPhone/iPad?

  • If you remember your existing Screen Time passcode, changing it is a quick and simple process. This section walks you through how to update your passcode directly from your device. If you still remember your current Screen Time passcode and simply want to update it, follow the steps below to reset your Screen Time passcode on your iPhone or iPad:Open the Settings app on your device.

  • Tap Screen Time.

  • Tap Change Screen Time Passcode.

  • Choose Change Screen Time Passcode again.

  • Enter your old passcode.

  • Enter the new passcode and confirm it.

    how to reset screen time passcode

Be sure to select a passcode that's easy for you to remember but difficult for others to guess. For added convenience, consider enabling Face ID or Touch ID to quickly access your Screen Time settings.

Part 3: How to Change Screen Time Passcode on Child's Phone?

Managing your child's device settings is crucial for enforcing healthy screen habits. Here's how to change the Screen Time on a child's Phone or iPad when using Family Sharing. Changing the Screen Time passcode on your child's device is similar but requires Family Sharing setup:

  • On your device, open Settings.

  • Tap Screen Time > [Child's Name].

  • Tap Change Screen Time Passcode.

  • Tap it again when prompted.

  • Enter the current passcode (if you know it).

  • Create and confirm a new passcode.

  • how to change screen time on child's phone

    这里填图片的文案,用户加载不出图片可以看到这文案

If you don't remember the passcode, you'll need to reset it using your Apple ID (covered in the next section).

Tips:

Make sure Family Sharing is properly set up. Locate to Settings > [Your Profile] > Family Sharing and confirm your child’s account is linked.

Part 4: How to Change Screen Time Passcode Without Apple ID?

Normally, an Apple ID is required to change or reset your Screen Time passcode. But what if you've forgotten the passcode and no longer have access to the linked Apple ID? PassFab iPhone Unlocker offers a reliable solution. This professional tool is designed to remove Screen Time limits on iPhone and iPad without the Apple ID credentials. Whether you're dealing with a second-hand device or simply forgot the passcode yourself, PassFab makes the process simple and efficient—no technical knowledge required.

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PassFab iPhone Unlock

  • Fast - Remove screen lock/iPhone Passcode/Activation Lock in minutes
  • Secure - Bypass screen time/MDM lock without data loss
  • Easy to operate - Unlock by yourself at home without hassle
  • Compatible - Compatible with the latest iOS 18 and iPhone 16 models
  • Supports Windows and MacOS

PassFab iPhone Unlock has Recommended by many medias, like macworld, makeuseof, appleinsider, etc.

Steps to Remove Screen Time Passcode without Apple ID:

  • Download and install the PassFab iPhone Unlock on your PC or Mac.

  • Connect your iPhone/iPad via USB. Select Remove Screen Time Passcode.

    select remove screen time passcode
  • Click Start to Remove to proceed.

    clck start to remove
  • Wait for the process to complete until you see “Successfully Removed Screen Time Passcode” on the interface.

    how to change screen time passcode when forgot

FAQs on How to Change Screen Time Passcode

Q1: What happens after 10 failed Screen Time Passcode Attempts?

After multiple incorrect attempts (usually around 10), your device may lock you out of the Screen Time settings temporarily. You might also see longer delay times between attempts. To regain access, you’ll typically need to sign in with your Apple ID or perform a device restore using iTunes or Finder.

Q2: Why is there no option for "Forgot Screen Time Passcode"?

The "Forgot Passcode?" option only shows if Screen Time was set up with an Apple ID. If there is no option for “Forgot Screen Time passcode”, it means your Apple ID didn’t link to Screen Time. In such cases, you’ll need to use third-party software or contact Apple Support.

Q3: How to Find Out Screen Time Passcode as a Kid?

Trying to bypass or discover a parent-set Screen Time passcode as a child is strongly discouraged. These restrictions are in place for your safety and digital well-being. If you believe the limits are unfair or need adjustment, it’s best to have an open conversation with your parent or guardian.

Conclusion

Forgetting your Screen Time passcode can be frustrating, but it's not the end of the world. Whether you're trying to manage your own device or a child's, knowing how to change Screen Time passcode when you forgot is key to regaining control. You can change or reset the passcode using your Apple ID, or with trustworthy third-party tools like PassFab iPhone Unlocker. Just remember to set a new passcode that is both memorable and secure.

passfab iphone unlocker

PassFab iPhone Unlock

  • Fast - Remove screen lock/iPhone Passcode/Activation Lock in minutes
  • Secure - Bypass screen time/MDM lock without data loss
  • Easy to operate - Unlock by yourself at home without hassle
  • Compatible - Compatible with the latest iOS 18 and iPhone 16 models
  • Supports Windows and MacOS

PassFab iPhone Unlock has Recommended by many medias, like macworld, makeuseof, appleinsider, etc.

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