How to Reset Your Screen Time Passcode on iPhone

It’s frustrating to get locked out of your own iPhone all of a sudden, due to screen time passcode forget issues. Those moments can be stressful, not being able to message anyone or receive important calls. Even if you try to use a last remembered password but eventually fail from multiple incorrect attempts. This situation can happen to anyone.

This guide explains what happens after ten failed Screen Time passcode attempts and shows how to reset Screen Time passcode safely. Steps shared below help regain access without unnecessary confusion, making the process easier to understand and follow.

Screen Time Lockout Explained After Multiple Attempts

Repeatedly entering an incorrect Screen Time passcode triggers temporary restrictions on settings access. After ten consecutive failed attempts, Screen Time features remain unavailable for one hour. Phone usage continues as normal, but adjustments to Screen Time or data usage settings stay blocked until the waiting period ends.

Concerns about a full device lockout are common, but this situation does not disable the iPhone completely. Calls, apps, and daily functions remain accessible. Lockout duration increases with each incorrect attempt, outlined below.

• Six failed attempts lead to a one minute restriction
• Seven failed attempts lead to a five minute restriction
• Eight failed attempts lead to a fifteen minute restriction
• Nine failed attempts lead to a sixty minute restriction
• Ten failed attempts maintain Screen Time restriction for sixty minutes

Few Simple Ways to Fix Screen Time Lock

There are several ways you can try to fix this sudden screen time lock. Some of easy methods are given below: 

Use Apple ID Method

Resetting a failed Screen Time passcode can be done easily using Apple ID credentials. This method works quickly when correct account details are available. Do remember, your iPhone must be running iOS version 13.4 or later before starting the process. Steps below explain how to disable or reset Screen Time using Apple ID.

Step 1

Open Settings on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod. Select Screen Time from the menu. Choose Change Screen Time Passcode or Turn Off Screen Time when options appear.

Step 2

Passcode entry screen will show up next. Select Forgot Passcode to continue. A new verification window will open automatically.

Step 3

Enter Apple ID email and password when prompted. Screen Time passcode will be removed after successful verification.

Try Resetting iPhone 

Resetting iPhone settings can help remove Screen Time passcode restrictions without touching personal data. This method restores system preferences while keeping photos, apps, and files safe. You can reset the iPhone by completely erasing the phone or resetting the settings only.

Erase iPhone Settings Process:

Step 1

Open Settings on your iPhone. Scroll down and tap General to continue.

Step 2

New menu will appear with multiple options. Scroll down and select Transfer or Reset iPhone.

Step 3

Another screen will open next. Choose Reset All Settings. Device settings will reset while stored data remains unchanged.

 

Only Reset Settings: 

Step 1

When phone is unlocked go to settings (gear icon);

Step 2

Scroll down and find “General” option;

Step 3

Scroll down again and you will find the option “Transfer or Reset iPhone”;

Step 4

Inside the “Transfer or Reset iPhone” option you will find 2 more options, they are “Reset” & “Erase All Content and Settings” > Select Reset

Step 5

There you will find multiple options but only select “Reset All Settings”

Confirm by giving your personal lockscreen passcode to successfully reset your iPhone.

Restore from an Earlier Backup

Restoring from an earlier backup can get rid of Screen Time passcode restrictions completely because earlier backups don’t carry any current Screen Time limits. You can follow two options when you forget the screen passcode suddenly, using iCloud comes in handy – no Apple ID needed, and if you don’t have access to your Apple ID, you can use iTunes. Below let’s find out how you can access by following a step by step way:

Using an iCloud Backup

First power on your device and keep on going with the setup until you get to the “Apple Apps & Data” screen.

▶ Then tap “Restore from iCloud Backup” to keep moving.
▶ Sign in with your Apple ID and password so you can get access to your saved backups.
▶ Now, select “Show All Backups” and then pick the backup that looks like the one you want to restore from.

 

Wait a bit for letting the restoration process to finish, make sure your internet is connected during that time. Otherwise the process will be disrupted. 

Using an iTunes Backup

▶ First get iTunes up and running on your computer and hook your iPhone up using a cable.
▶ When your iPhone shows up in iTunes, go ahead and select it.
▶ Now look for the “Restore Backup” option in the Summary section of iTunes and click on that.
▶ Next, pick a backup from the list that iTunes gives you.

Click “Restore” and just be patient – it takes a little while for the whole process to finish, and don’t even think about disconnecting your iPhone.

Helpful Tips to Avoid Screen Time Lock

Screen Time lock issues often happen due to small mistakes or forgotten details. Tips below help maintain access smoothly and reduce chances of repeated lockouts.

Use Strong Passcode

Choose a passcode that is easy to remember but hard to guess. Avoid common numbers that may lead to repeated wrong attempts.

Save Apple ID

Apple ID credentials should always be stored securely. Easy access helps reset Screen Time quickly when passcode is forgotten.

Limit Attempts

Entering random passcodes repeatedly increases lockout time. Pause and verify passcode carefully before trying again.

Update Regularly

Keeping iOS updated reduces bugs related to Screen Time settings. Latest versions often improve stability and recovery options.

Family Sharing Care

Screen Time managed through Family Sharing needs proper account tracking. Correct organizer credentials prevent accidental restrictions.

Final Words

Screen Time passcode issues can interrupt daily iPhone usage, especially after multiple failed attempts. Knowing reset methods, lockout behavior, and prevention tips makes recovery faster and stress free. Correct steps help protect data while restoring access safely. For users needing advanced assistance, Apple Gadgets Care offers technical expertise, accurate diagnostics, and reliable solutions. Professional support ensures Screen Time settings are handled correctly without risking device security or personal information.