Introduction
Apple ID is the key to all Apple services: App Store, iCloud, iMessage, FaceTime, and others. If you forget your password, access to these services will be restricted. Password reset is a standard procedure that allows you to regain access within minutes. In this guide, we will thoroughly cover how to reset your Apple ID password directly from an iPhone/iPad or via a web browser, as well as how to resolve common issues.
Requirements
Before you begin, ensure that:
- You have a device with iOS 13+ or iPadOS 13+, or access to a computer/other device with internet.
- The Apple ID account is linked to a phone number or email to which you have access.
- Two-factor authentication is enabled on the device from which you are resetting the password (mandatory for modern accounts).
- You have the device passcode (if resetting from iPhone/iPad) or know the security questions (if they are set).
Method 1: Reset Password on an iOS Device (iPhone/iPad)
This is the simplest method if you still have access to the device where you are signed in to your Apple ID.
Step 1: Open Your Profile Settings
Launch the Settings app and tap your name (avatar and username) at the top of the screen.
Step 2: Navigate to the Password Section
In the menu that opens, select Password & Security. Then tap the Change Password option.
Step 3: Verify Your Identity
The system will request identity verification:
- If a passcode is set on the device, enter it.
- Or use Face ID/Touch ID by swiping or looking at the camera.
Step 4: Set a New Password
Enter a new password that meets the requirements:
- Minimum of 8 characters.
- Must contain at least one number and at least one letter.
- Must not match previous passwords.
Confirm the password and tap Change or Next. After this, the password will be updated on all devices where you are signed in to your Apple ID.
Method 2: Reset Password via iforgot.apple.com
If you do not remember the password and cannot sign in on the device, use Apple's web service.
Step 1: Go to the iforgot.apple.com Website
Open a browser on any device (computer, another phone) and navigate to iforgot.apple.com.
Step 2: Enter Your Apple ID
In the Apple ID field, enter the email address you use as your Apple ID. Click Continue.
Step 3: Choose a Verification Method
Apple will offer to verify your identity in one of the following ways:
- Getting a code on a trusted device (iPhone/iPad where you are signed in to Apple ID).
- Getting a code via SMS to the phone number linked to your account.
- Answering security questions (if they are set).
- Recovery via your recovery account (if configured).
Select an available option and follow the on-screen instructions. Usually, the code arrives within a few seconds.
Step 4: Reset the Password
After successful verification, you will land on the password reset page. Enter a new password (meeting the requirements) and confirm it. Click Reset Password.
Method 3: Reset Password Using the "Find iPhone" App
This method is useful if you have lost your device or cannot use other methods.
Step 1: Open icloud.com/find
On a computer or another device, open a browser and go to icloud.com/find. Sign in with your Apple ID (if you remember the password) or click "Recover Password" below the login field.
Step 2: Select a Device for Recovery
If you have trusted devices, Apple can send a recovery code to one of them. Select a device and click OK to receive a notification.
Step 3: Enter the Code on the Target Device
A notification with the code will appear on your trusted device (e.g., your Mac or another iPhone). Enter this code on the iforgot.apple.com page.
Step 4: Set a New Password
As in the previous methods, enter and confirm your new password.
Verifying the Result
After resetting the password:
- Try signing in to your Apple ID on a device: Settings → Your Name or in the App Store/iCloud.
- Check if data is syncing (contacts, calendars).
- Ensure services using your Apple ID (iMessage, FaceTime) are working.
- If you used two-factor authentication, a sign-in approval request may appear on trusted devices—approve it.
Common Issues
Recovery Code Not Arriving
- Check that the phone number or email in your Apple ID settings is current.
- Ensure the device has an internet connection.
- Wait a few minutes—sometimes delays can be up to 5 minutes.
- If the code still doesn't arrive, try another verification method (e.g., through a different trusted device).
Code Doesn't Work
- Codes are valid for a limited time (usually 15-30 minutes). If more time has passed, request a new one.
- Enter the code without spaces or extra characters.
Account Locked
After multiple failed attempts, Apple may temporarily lock your account. In this case:
- Wait 24 hours before trying again.
- Or contact Apple Support via their website or by phone.
No Access to Trusted Devices or Contact Information
If you have lost access to all verification methods, password recovery may be impossible. The only option is to contact Apple Support with proof of account ownership (e.g., screenshots of purchases, registration details).