Set, change or reset your Mac's Screen Time passcode

Why it happens

The Screen Time passcode stops other people, often children, from changing limits or giving themselves more time. It's a separate code from your Mac login password, which is why it's easy to forget. When you set it, your Mac asks for an Apple Account so you can reset it later.

How to fix it

1. Open the Apple menu, choose System Settings, and click Screen Time in the sidebar. If you're setting it for a child in Family Sharing, choose their name from the menu at the top first.

2. To set a passcode, turn on Lock Screen Time Settings. Type a 4-digit code twice, then enter an Apple Account you can use to reset it if you ever forget.

   Screen Time›Lock Screen Time Settings

3. To change it, click Change Passcode next to the switch. Enter the old code, then the new one twice. Your Mac may also let you confirm with Touch ID or your Mac login password.

4. Forgot it? Click Change Passcode, then Forgot Passcode? Enter the Apple Account email and password you gave when you set the passcode, then choose a new code.

5. To remove the passcode, turn off Lock Screen Time Settings and enter the code when asked. Limits stay as they are, but anyone using this account can now change them.

Still not fixed?

1. If a child found the code, change it straight away using the steps above, and pick numbers that aren't a birthday or a pattern like 1234.

2. Is it your child's Screen Time, set up through Family Sharing? The parent or guardian who manages them can change the passcode from their own iPhone, iPad or Mac, under the child's name in Screen Time. On version 27 that's in Family settings instead.

   Family

3. If Forgot Passcode? doesn't accept your Apple Account, check you're using the same one you entered when you set the passcode. It may be different from the account you're signed in with on this Mac.

4. If you skipped adding an Apple Account when you set the passcode, or none of the routes above work, contact Apple Support. They can explain your options for that Mac.