The Screen Time passcode is not the same code you use to unlock the iPhone. It is a separate four-digit code used to protect app limits, downtime, content restrictions, and parental controls. If you forget it, Apple provides a recovery path through the Apple ID used to set up Screen Time.
These steps apply to iPhones running iOS 17 or iOS 18.
Does This Affect You?
Use this guide if you cannot change Screen Time limits, approve more app time, adjust restrictions, or turn Screen Time off because the Screen Time passcode is unknown.
Reset the Screen Time Passcode with Apple ID
This is the normal fix when Screen Time was linked to an Apple ID during setup, which is the default path on recent iOS versions.
- Open Settings > Screen Time.
- Tap Change Screen Time Passcode.
- Tap Change Screen Time Passcode again.
- Choose Forgot Passcode?.
- Enter the Apple ID and password used when Screen Time was created. For a child device managed through Family Sharing, use the parent or organizer Apple ID.
- Create and confirm a new Screen Time passcode.
This does not erase apps, photos, messages, or the existing Screen Time rules. It only changes the passcode.
Reset It from a Parent Device
If the iPhone belongs to a child in Family Sharing, the parent or organizer can reset the code from their own iPhone.
- On the parent iPhone, open Settings > Screen Time.
- Tap the child’s name under Family.
- Choose Change Screen Time Passcode.
- Set a new passcode. The change applies to the child’s device the next time Screen Time settings are used.
Erase the iPhone Only as a Last Resort
Use this only when Apple ID recovery is unavailable and no Family Sharing organizer can reset the passcode.
- Back up the iPhone first if you can, even if the backup is not perfect.
- Open Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings. If Settings is not accessible, use recovery mode from a computer.
- After the erase, set up the iPhone again and restore from the newest backup.
- Return to Settings > Screen Time and create a fresh Screen Time passcode. Store it in a password manager or another secure place.
After You Regain Access
Store the Code Securely
Screen Time passcodes are easy to forget because you may not type them often. Save the new code in a password manager or secure note.
Link Screen Time to Apple ID
The Forgot Passcode option depends on Screen Time being connected to an Apple ID. When setting up Screen Time on a new iPhone, make sure the device is signed in first.
Use Family Sharing for Child Devices
For parental controls, Family Sharing is easier to manage over time because the parent can adjust limits and reset the passcode from their own iPhone.
Sources
- Apple Support: If you forgot your Screen Time passcode
- Apple Support: Set up Screen Time for a family member
- Apple Support: Erase and set up your iPhone