If you have an Apple device, then your Apple ID is very important. It's how you log into iCloud, download something from the App Store, keep an eye on subscriptions, set up Find My to keep track of your gadgets and much more.
So, if you forget your Apple ID password, it can feel like the end of the world. But it isn't. If you've forgotten your Apple password there are several ways you can easily reset it. The most common, and easiest, is to use the web browser on your Apple device, whether you're working on an iPhone, iPad or Mac.
In our guide below we'll show you the most common ways to reset your Apple ID password and get up-and-running with iCloud and the App Store again in no time.
How to reset your Apple ID or iCloud password with your email address or security questions
If you don't have two-factor authentication turned on for your Apple ID (we highly recommend doing this for security reasons), you'll need to use your email address or answer security questions to change your password.
- Navigate to iforgot.apple.com (opens in new tab) in any web browser.
- Enter your Apple ID email address.
- Add the character you see on the screen.
- Click Continue.
- Confirm your phone number.
- Choose Continue.
- Follow Apple's additional instructions on the screen.
How to reset your Apple ID or iCloud password on iPhone or other trusted Apple device
The best way to reset your Apple ID password is by using a device that you're already signed into. Of course this won't be helpful if you have a new device or you can't get into one, in both of those cases, head down to the new device steps below.
- Tap the Settings app on your device.
- Choose your name at the top of the main Settings page.
- Select Password & Security.
- Tap Change Password.
- Follow the additional instructions.
You can also follow these steps on a trusted iPad, iPod touch, or Apple Watch.
How to reset your Apple ID or iCloud password on Mac
You can also change your Apple ID password through a Mac.
- Select the Apple icon at the top left of the computer.
- Choose System Preferences from the pull-down menu.
- Click your Apple ID.
- Select Password & Security.
- Click Change Password and follow the additional instructions.
How to reset your Apple or iCloud password on a new device
If you're attempting to change your Apple ID on a new device, you can do so by following a different series of steps. A "new device" is any Apple device where you aren't signed in with your Apple ID. You'll perform this by selecting "Forgot Apple ID or password?" when the option appears.
This solution can also be performed on someone else's Apple device.
How to reset your Apple ID or iCloud password on the Apple Support app
It's also possible to reset your Apple device using the official Apple support app (opens in new tab) for iPhones and iPad.
- Tap on the Apple ID link under the More products heading.
- Then, select Forget Apple ID Password.
- Choose Get Started and follow the additional instructions.
Several options to choose from
Your Apple ID allows you to use the full range of Apple features, like Find My, the App Store and iCloud. That's why it's essential that you remember your password—or store it somewhere safe.
However, if you do forget it, there are plenty of ways you can get signed back in. The easiest is using a trusted device you're already signed in on. But if you have a new device or want to use the web or app instead, the step-by-step guides above should help you get up-and-running again quickly and easily.
