Forgot iPad Password? 4 Ways to Regain Access Fast

Oops! Did you forgot your iPad password? Forgetting an iPad password can be a real headache. 

It happens to many people, whether they mix up the numbers or haven’t used their device in a while. Kids might guess at the code too many times, leaving the iPad locked and unusable.

Whatever the reason, being locked out of your iPad is super frustrating. But don’t worry! 

Whether you’ve got a backup or need a full reset, we’ll guide you through every solution (without losing your precious cat memes). Let’s get you back in!

Quick Takeaways:

• Forgot your iPad password? Don’t panic!
• You can reset your iPad using iTunes, Finder, iCloud, or Recovery Mode.
• All methods will erase your iPad, but you can restore from backup.
• Apple ID is essential for most recovery options.
• If you’re stuck, Apple Support can help you get back in.

Forgot iPad Password? Here’s What to Do First

When someone forgets their iPad password, the next steps depend on what features are set up and the situation on the screen. There are simple checks and actions that can sometimes help avoid a full reset, saving time and data.

1. Double-Check Your Passcode (Yes, Really!)

Most people get locked out because they enter the wrong passcode. It is easy to make a mistake by typing a number too fast, being distracted, or switching between multiple devices with different codes. 

Sometimes, a family member or child may also try guessing, which can lock the iPad faster.

After several incorrect entries, the iPad displays a timeout message, such as “iPad unavailable” or “Security Lockout.” If the passcode is written down somewhere, check again to ensure there is no forgotten sticky note or saved message. 

Try common combinations if the passcode is similar to birthdays, phone numbers, or other personal codes. However, avoid rushing and entering random codes, as this can increase the lockout time or lead to complete disabling.

If the iPad belongs to a child or another family member, ask if they changed the passcode recently. 

Effective communication saves time and prevents further mistakes. It is usually worth pausing to think before taking bigger steps, such as a reset.

2. Use Face ID or Touch ID (If Set Up)

If Face ID or Touch ID is active on the iPad, it is possible to unlock it without the passcode. Many people set up these features but often forget about them until they are needed.

• Face ID: Hold the iPad up and look directly at the screen. Ensure that nothing is covering the camera. Remove hats, glasses, or masks that could block facial recognition.
• Touch ID: Place the registered finger on the Home button. Wipe the button clean first to remove any dirt or moisture.

If Face ID or Touch ID works, access is restored. A passcode may still be required after a restart, update, or if it has not been used for an extended period. If neither option is working, continue to the other solutions.

Also Read: iPad External Storage: Smart Buy or Skip It?

3. Wait It Out (If iPad Says "Try Again Later")

After too many failed passcode attempts, iPads add increasing waiting periods. The device may display messages like “Try again in 1 minute,” then 5 minutes, then 15 minutes, and even up to several hours with enough failures. During this time, the iPad cannot be unlocked by entering the code.

The best course of action during a lockout is to wait until the timer expires. Do not keep entering guesses, as additional attempts only prolong the lockout. Use this time to:

• Charge the device to prevent it from running out of power during recovery.
• Check for any notes or password hints stored elsewhere.
• Ask other users if they know the code.

If you still have no luck after waiting, it may be time to consider a factory reset. At this point, understand that a reset will erase all data not backed up to iCloud or a computer.

Forgot iPad Password? 4 Quick Ways to Regain Access

If you forget your iPad passcode, here are 4 fast and effective ways to regain access. All methods require erasing the device (which will delete your data), but you can later restore it from a backup.

Method 1. Use a Mac or PC & Recovery Mode

1. Turn off your iPad:
   • If your iPad has a Home button, press and hold the Top (or Side) button until the power slider shows up, then slide to power off.
   • For iPads without a Home button, press and hold the Top button and either Volume button together, then slide to turn off.
2. Put your iPad in Recovery Mode:
   • Home button: Hold the Home button, then plug the iPad into your computer while still holding the Home button. Release the Home button when you see the recovery mode screen.
   • No Home button: Hold the Top button while plugging into your computer and keep holding until you see the recovery mode screen.
3. Open iTunes (on Windows or older Macs) or Finder (on new Macs). Your iPad should appear in the sidebar or at the top of the bar.
4. Choose “Restore” when prompted.
   • This will erase everything on your iPad, including the passcode.
   • Wait for your computer to download the software and restore your iPad. This may take a while.
5. Set up your iPad as new or restore from a backup if you have one.

Method 2. Erase Remotely via iCloud (Find My iPad Feature)

You can use Apple’s “Find My” service to erase your iPad if you enabled it before getting locked out.

Steps:

1. Go to iCloud.com/find on any web browser (use a computer or another mobile device).
2. Log in with your Apple ID and password.
3. Select your iPad from the list of devices at the top or side.
4. Click “Erase iPad.”
   • This erases your iPad, including the passcode, so you can set it up as new or restore a backup.
   • Your iPad must be connected to the internet for this feature to work. If it’s offline, the erase will happen next time it connects.
5. After erasure, set up your iPad again (as new or from a backup).

Method 3 – Erase Directly from the iPad (iPadOS 17 and Up)

With iPadOS 17 or later, Apple lets you erase your device directly from the lock screen, without needing a computer.

Steps:

1. Enter the wrong passcode multiple times until you see “iPad Unavailable” or “Security Lockout.”
2. Look for “Erase iPad” at the bottom of the screen.
3. Tap “Erase iPad,” then enter your Apple ID password when prompted.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to erase all content and settings.
   • This removes the passcode, allowing you to start fresh or restore from a backup.

Method 4 – Erase with Apple Support or Trusted Third-Party Tools

If the above methods don’t work or you don’t have access to a computer or your Apple ID:

Steps:

1. Contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store. Bring proof you own the iPad (receipt or box). They can help you erase and reset the device.
2. Third-Party Tools: Certain tools, such as Tenorshare 4uKey, Aiseesoft, or iMyFone LockWiper, can erase your iPad and remove the passcode. 

Caution: Use only trusted, reputable software and read reviews carefully. These apps work similarly to iTunes and will erase your data.

Also Read: 7 Most Common Apple iPad Problems and How to Fix Them Fast

What If You Don’t Have Access to Your Apple ID or Email?

Sometimes, a person may forget both their iPad password and their Apple ID or email password. This can make it hard to get back into the device. Luckily, there are ways to try and recover access.

It is important to stay calm and follow these steps:

• Try every email address that might be linked to the Apple ID.
• Go to the Apple iForgot page and enter the possible Apple ID.
• If security questions are set up, try to answer them. If they get them right, they can reset the password.
• If nothing works, ask Apple Support for help. They may need to prove their identity.
• Use a family member's iPhone or iPad with the Apple Support app to initiate the recovery process.
• Visit an Apple Store and ask to use a device on-site to recover the account.

The table below shows what to do if a person cannot use their email to reset their Apple ID:

Having proof of identity ready before contacting Apple can help expedite the process. This can include an ID or device purchase receipt.

Apple Support can guide you through each step if you feel stuck or unsure. They are used to helping people in this situation.

Avoid Forgetting Your iPad Password Again

It is easy to forget a password, especially if you rarely use it or have multiple devices. Simple steps can significantly reduce the likelihood of losing access to your iPad in the future.

1. Enable Face ID or Touch ID

Setting up Face ID or Touch ID means you do not have to enter your passcode every time you unlock your iPad. This helps you use your device more quickly and can keep your password fresh in your mind, as you can still access it when needed.

To turn this on:

• Open Settings.
• Tap Face ID & Passcode or Touch ID & Passcode.
• Follow the prompts to set up Face ID with your face or Touch ID with your fingerprint.

These options are both secure and very convenient. Even if someone else tries to use your iPad, your face or fingerprint will keep it safe. If Face ID or Touch ID fails, you can still use your passcode, so make sure you remember it.

2. Use a Password Manager

Password managers keep track of all your passwords in one safe spot, so you never have to remember each one. Examples include iCloud Keychain (built into Apple devices), 1Password, or LastPass.

Benefits of using a password manager:

• Stores your iPad passcode securely.
• Allows you to save other passwords, such as email or Wi-Fi, with strong encryption.
• Helps you create strong passwords that are hard to guess.

With a password manager, you often only need to remember one master password. When you need your iPad passcode, just look it up in the app. This solution is ideal for individuals who struggle to remember codes or frequently use multiple devices.

3. Write It Down (Safely!)

Writing your passcode on paper can be helpful, but it's essential to store it carefully so that others cannot access it. Never leave it where someone can easily see or steal it.

Tips for writing down your passcode:

• Put the paper in a locked drawer, safe, or other secure spot.
• Do not label the paper with “iPad password” or anything obvious.
• If you use digital notes, choose an encrypted app with a strong password.

This option is best suited for individuals who are not comfortable with password managers or prefer a straightforward backup. Just make sure you keep your written passcode private and update it if you ever change your iPad password.

Also Read: iPad Air 2 vs iPad 10th Gen: Full Comparison & Key Differences

Final Thoughts

Losing an iPad password is stressful, but it is not the end of the world. There are solid ways to get back in, like using iTunes, iCloud, or Recovery Mode.

To avoid big problems later, it is smart to back up the device often. Face ID or Touch ID can also make logging in easier.

For optimal results, select a passcode that is not too simple or easily guessable. Saving the code in a safe spot can prevent this issue next time.

🔥 Protect your iPad With These Keyboard Case Collections 🔥

 

Step Touch Series | Rugged Backstand Series | Cloud Series

 

 

FAQs: Forgot iPad Password

Forgetting an iPad password can lock users out of their device. Several options are available for regaining access, resetting passwords, and seeking assistance.

How to unlock an iPad if you forget your password?

If an iPad password is forgotten, the main way to unlock it is to use a computer with iTunes or Finder. The user must connect the iPad, put it into recovery mode, and then select the option to restore it. This erases the device and removes the passcode.

After restoring, the iPad can be set up as new or from a backup, if one is available.

How do I get my iPad to forget a password?

To make an iPad forget a saved password, such as Wi-Fi or website passwords, users can go to the device’s settings. For Wi-Fi, tap on the network name and choose "Forget This Network." For website passwords, go to Settings > Passwords and delete the specific entry.

This only removes the stored password, not the iPad’s device passcode.

How to reset an iPad without a password or a computer?

Without a password or computer, options are limited. Using iCloud’s "Find My" feature from another device, the user can remotely erase the iPad through the "Erase iPad" option. This method also deletes all data from the device.

If “Find My” is not enabled, users must use a computer.

Will Apple unlock my iPad if I bring it to a store?

Apple Store staff can help with locked iPads, but they will require proof of ownership, such as a receipt and a valid ID. They will likely use recovery methods similar to those available at home, using a computer to erase and reset the device.

Apple will not unlock the iPad without proper proof of purchase.

How do I bypass an iPad passcode without a computer?

Bypassing a passcode without a computer can only be done if "Find My iPad" is active. A user can use another device or web browser to log into iCloud.com and use the "Erase iPad" tool.

There is no official way to bypass the passcode using only the iPad, if no computer or iCloud access is available.