Why 'Automatically log in as' is greyed out on your Mac

Why it happens

FileVault encrypts everything on your Mac's disk. At startup, your password is the key that opens it, so the Mac can't skip that step and log you in by itself. macOS dims 'Automatically log in as' to show that the two can't be on together.

How to fix it

1. Open System Settings and click Users & Groups. You'll see 'Automatically log in as' dimmed.

   Users & Groups›Automatically log in as

2. Click Privacy & Security in the sidebar and scroll to FileVault. If it says FileVault is on, that's the reason the option is dimmed.

   Privacy & Security›FileVault

3. Keep FileVault on. With it on, the password you type at startup also logs you in, so you only type it once after a restart.

4. To get in faster day to day, set up Touch ID if your Mac or keyboard has it. A fingertip then unlocks your Mac after sleep instead of the full password.

   Touch ID & Password

Still not fixed?

1. FileVault is off but the option is still dimmed? Your Mac may be managed by a school or company that blocks automatic login. Check for a Device Management entry in General settings and ask whoever manages the Mac.

   General›Device Management

2. Only an administrator can change login options. If your account is a Standard user, sign in with an admin account or ask the Mac's owner.

3. If you have an Apple Watch, turn it on as a way to sign in, in Touch ID & Password settings. Waking your Mac while you wear the watch then signs you in.

   Touch ID & Password

4. If FileVault is off, you're an admin, the Mac isn't managed, and the option still won't turn on, contact Apple Support.