How to reset the Mac login password when you've forgotten it

Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How to reset the Mac login password when you've forgotten it. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

Common Causes

If you've forgotten your Mac login password, don't panic — your files are still safe and Apple provides built-in recovery tools to help you regain access. This guide walks you through resetting both a standard user password and an admin password using Recovery Mode and your Apple ID. Before you begin, make sure you know your Apple ID credentials and have a stable internet connection, as these are often required during the reset process.

Before You Start

Take a moment to confirm a few things that will make the reset process smoother:

• Ensure your Mac is plugged into power (or has a full battery) — the reset can take some time.
• Confirm you know the email address and password for your Apple ID.
• If your Mac uses FileVault encryption, you'll need to unlock the disk using your Apple ID or recovery key before you can reset any account password.
• Have a second device handy in case you need to look up account details or reset your Apple ID password.

Method 1: Reset Using Your Apple ID

This is the quickest method if your account is linked to an Apple ID and you're running macOS Catalina (10.15) or later.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. On the login screen, click the ? icon next to the password field, or look for a message that says "reset it using your Apple ID" after a failed login attempt.
2. Click the arrow next to "reset it using your Apple ID" (or a similar prompt).
3. Enter your Apple ID email address and password, then follow the on-screen prompts.
4. Choose a new password when prompted, and add a hint if desired.
5. Click Reset Password, then log in with your new credentials.

Method 2: Reset Using Recovery Mode

Use this method if you can't use your Apple ID, or if your Mac runs an older version of macOS.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner and choose Shut Down. Wait for your Mac to fully power off.
2. Turn your Mac back on and immediately hold the appropriate key combination:
   • Intel-based Macs: Hold Command (⌘) + R
   • Apple Silicon Macs (M1, M2, M3, M4): Press and hold the power button until "Loading startup options" appears
3. From the Utilities menu in the macOS Recovery window, select Terminal.
4. Type resetpassword and press Return.
5. The Reset Password assistant will open. Select the user account you want to reset (you may need to unlock the disk first using your Apple ID or FileVault recovery key).
6. Enter a new password, add a password hint, then click Next.
7. Click Restart when prompted. Your Mac will reboot and you can log in with the new password.

Method 3: Reset Using Another Admin Account

If your Mac has more than one administrator account and you can log in to another one, you can reset the password from there.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Log in to a separate administrator account on the same Mac.
2. Open System Settings (or System Preferences on older macOS versions).
3. Navigate to Users & Groups.
4. Click the lock icon in the bottom-left and authenticate with the other admin's password.
5. Select the account you need to reset, then click Reset Password (or right-click the user and choose Reset Password).
6. Enter a new password and hint, then click Change Password.

Troubleshooting

The Apple ID Reset Option Doesn't Appear

This usually means the account isn't linked to an Apple ID, or you're running an older version of macOS. Try Method 2 (Recovery Mode) instead.

You're Prompted for a FileVault Recovery Key

If FileVault is enabled, you'll need to enter the recovery key before you can reset any password. You can retrieve this key by signing in to icloud.com/find with your Apple ID, selecting the relevant device, and choosing the option to retrieve the recovery key. Alternatively, check with your IT administrator if the device is company-managed.

Recovery Mode Won't Load

If your Mac doesn't enter Recovery Mode, try the following:

• Ensure you're holding the keys immediately after pressing the power button.
• For Intel Macs, try Command (⌘) + Option + R or Command (⌘) + Option + Shift + R to boot into internet recovery.
• Disconnect any external devices that might interfere with the boot process.

Your New Password Isn't Accepted

Make sure your new password meets the minimum length requirement and that Caps Lock isn't enabled. Try resetting again, and avoid using a password you've recently used for the same account.

Still Having Issues?