How to change your iPhone password (passcode)
Your iPhone password is the passcode you type to unlock it. Changing it takes a minute, and iOS gives you a safety net if you forget the new one.
The fix
Change your iPhone passcode
- 1
Open Settings and tap Face ID & Passcode.
On iPhone SE and iPhone 8 and earlier, it is Touch ID & Passcode.
- 2
Enter your current passcode.
- 3
Scroll down and tap Change Passcode.
- 4
Enter your old passcode again.
- 5
Enter your new passcode.
Tap Passcode Options first if you want a Custom Alphanumeric Code (letters and numbers), a Custom Numeric Code, or a 4 digit code.
- 6
Enter the new passcode again to confirm.
Which passcode type is best?
- Custom alphanumeric: most secure, uses letters and numbers.
- 6 digit: the default and a good balance for most people.
- 4 digit: quickest, but much easier to guess.
Frequently asked questions
What if I forget my new passcode?
For 72 hours after changing it, you can unlock with your old passcode on iOS 17 and later. Tap Forgot Passcode on the Lock Screen and choose Enter Previous Passcode.
Is my iPhone password the same as my Apple Account password?
No. The passcode unlocks your iPhone. Your Apple Account password is for iCloud, the App Store and signing in to Apple services. They are changed in different places.
Related guides
Convert photos to PDF on iPhone
Convert one or several photos to a PDF on iPhone for free with the Files app or the Print menu, combine pages in order, and save or share the PDF.
Change Auto-Lock on iPhone
Change how long your iPhone screen stays on before it locks, choose Never, and fix Auto-Lock when it is greyed out or stuck at 30 seconds by Low Power Mode.