How do I recover an Apple ID password without a recovery key?
Answer
If you forgot the Apple ID password and do not have a recovery key, reset it from a trusted Apple device when possible, or start account recovery at iforgot.apple.com. Recovery can take time if trusted devices and numbers are unavailable.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Do not share Apple ID passwords, recovery keys, or one-time codes with anyone who contacts you unexpectedly.
- Erasing an iPhone while locked to an unknown Apple ID can leave Activation Lock in place.
Follow these steps
Reset from a signed-in Apple device
On an iPhone already signed into the account, go to Settings > [your name] > Sign-In & Security > Change Password, then authenticate with the device passcode and set a new password.
You should see: The Apple ID password updates and other devices can sign in with the new password.
Search for a saved recovery key or password
Check Passwords, Notes, Files, email, a password manager, and any printed Apple Account documents for a recovery key or stored password.
You should see: You either find usable credentials or confirm none are available.
Start Apple Account recovery online
On a computer or another device, open iforgot.apple.com, enter the Apple ID, and follow the account recovery steps when trusted devices or phone numbers are unavailable.
You should see: Apple starts recovery or shows a wait timer and instructions for completing it.
Keep trusted contacts available
If recovery asks for an old trusted phone number or device approval, keep those devices powered on and watch for Apple’s message or call until recovery finishes.
You should see: You receive Apple’s confirmation and can create a new password when recovery completes.
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Extra tips
What to look for: Whether any iPhone, iPad, or Mac is still signed into the Apple ID, and any Didn’t Get a Code or recovery wait messages on iforgot.apple.com.
Before you change anything: Search password managers, Notes, email, and printed records for any saved Apple ID password or recovery key before starting recovery. Use only appleid.apple.com or iforgot.apple.com in a browser you trust. Do not erase devices unless you understand Activation Lock requirements. Never share Apple ID passwords or codes with unexpected callers.
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