Okay, let's be real—you're probably here because you either forgot your Apple ID password, got a security alert, or just realized you've been using the same password since 2012. Changing your Apple ID password feels like it should be simple, right? But between device settings, recovery options, and Apple's occasional quirks, it's easy to get stuck. I've helped dozens of folks through this, and yeah, even messed it up myself once (more on that later).
So how do I change my Apple ID password? Well, it varies depending on where you are and what device you're holding. Your iPhone? Mac? Maybe an old iPad? Each has its own path. And if you're locked out? That's a different beast altogether. We'll cover every scenario—including stuff most guides skip, like what actually happens after you change it and how to avoid getting locked out of your own photos.
Before You Start: Critical Prep Work
Changing your password isn't just tapping a button. Skip these steps and you might regret it:
- Check your trusted devices - That iPhone you sold last year? Still listed? Remove it NOW in Settings > [Your Name] > Devices
- Update your recovery contacts - People change numbers! Verify under Apple ID > Password & Security
- Know your current password - Sounds obvious but if you're using Face ID 24/7, you might've forgotten it
⚠️ Pro tip from bitter experience: When I changed mine mid-travel, I got locked out of iCloud Drive for 3 hours because I forgot to update my iPad password. Sync your devices first!
Changing Your Apple ID Password (When You Know the Current One)
If you remember your current password, this is straightforward. Mostly. Here's how each method works:
On Your iPhone or iPad
This is the easiest way for most people:
- Open Settings and tap your name/profile photo at the top
- Tap "Password & Security" (not "Sign-In & Security" – that's different)
- Choose "Change Password"
- Enter your device passcode when prompted (this verifies it's really you)
- Type your new Apple ID password twice – make it strong! I'll show you how later
- Tap "Change" or "Change Password" in top right corner
Now here's what nobody tells you: After hitting "Change," your other Apple devices using this ID will immediately start acting up. Your Mac might demand the new password for iCloud 5 times in a row. Don't panic – just enter the new password on each device when prompted.
On Your Mac
Same idea, slightly different menus:
- Click the Apple logo () in top-left corner
- Choose "System Preferences" > "Apple ID"
- Click "Password & Security" in the left sidebar
- Click "Change Password..."
- Enter your Mac's admin password when asked (not your Apple ID – this trips people up)
- Enter old password, then new password twice
- Click "Change"
Annoyance alert: On macOS Ventura or later, Apple hides this under "System Settings" with a sidebar icon. Why they keep moving things? No idea.
On Windows or Android Devices
Yes, you can do this without Apple hardware:
- Go to appleid.apple.com in any browser
- Sign in with your current Apple ID credentials
- Under "Security" section, click "Change Password"
- Enter your current password first
- Create and confirm your new password
- Click "Change Password"
Important: After changing, you'll need to update this password on any non-Apple apps using your Apple ID (like Spotify or Windows Mail app).
Password Recovery When You're Totally Locked Out
Forgot your password? This is where things get hairy. Apple's account recovery takes time—sometimes days—so try these first:
Immediate Fixes
| If you have... | Try this | Success Rate |
|---|---|---|
| A trusted device nearby | Tap "Forgot password?" on login screen → "Get help" → Choose device | High (if device is handy) |
| Recovery key enabled | Use the 28-character key during reset (you did save it, right?) | Instant if you have it |
| Access to recovery email/phone | Choose "Reset via email" or SMS at iforgot.apple.com | Medium (depends on current access) |
⚠️ Heads up: If someone else set up your Apple ID (like an ex or deceased relative), recovery gets messy. You'll need proof of purchase receipts for devices.
The Nuclear Option: Account Recovery
When all else fails, Apple's account recovery kicks in:
- Go to iforgot.apple.com
- Enter your Apple ID email
- Select "I need to reset my password"
- Choose "Can't access trusted devices?"
- Select phone number for verification (must be active!)
- You'll see a timer—could be hours or days based on account history
Personal rant: I once waited 72 hours for a client's account recovery. Why? Because she'd changed phone numbers and didn't update her Apple ID. Don't be like Sue.
After Changing Your Password: Critical Next Steps
Changed it? Great. Now avoid these disasters:
Device Checklist
- iPhones/iPads: Go to Settings > [Your Name] > Sign Out → Sign back in with new password
- Macs: System Settings > Apple ID > Sign Out → Restart → Sign in
- Apple TV: Settings > Users and Accounts > [Your Account] > Sign Out → Sign In
Miss one device? That's how you end up with "Verification Failed" errors when downloading apps.
App & Service Updates
These will break if you don't manually update them:
| Service | Where to update password | Consequences if skipped |
|---|---|---|
| iCloud Mail (on non-Apple devices) | Email client settings | Mail stops syncing |
| Third-party apps using "Sign in with Apple" | App settings or developer website | Login failures |
| iTunes on Windows | Account > Sign Out > Sign In | Purchases blocked |
| Family Sharing members | They must enter new password when prompted | Location sharing fails |
Creating a Bulletproof Apple ID Password
Bad passwords are why we're here. Let's fix that:
Apple's Requirements vs Reality
Apple requires:
- At least 8 characters
- Uppercase + lowercase letters
- At least one number
But realistically? Your password should be:
- 12+ characters (I use 16 minimum)
- No dictionary words ("BlueCoffee123" is terrible)
- Unique to Apple (never reused!)
Example formula I use: Color + Kitchen tool + Number + Symbol = "PurpleSpatula42!"
Password Managers: Yes or No?
Controversial opinion: I don't recommend storing your Apple ID password in third-party managers like LastPass. Why? If your phone dies and you need recovery, you might not access it. Better options:
- iCloud Keychain: Syncs across Apple devices securely
- Physical copy: Write it in a notebook you keep locked (seriously)
- Memorable phrase: "MyFirstConcertWasBlink182@MSG"
⚠️ Warning: Never store your password recovery key digitally. Print it, laminate it, put it with important documents.
Fixing Common "Change Password" Failures
Errors happen. Here's what they really mean:
Password Change Error Messages
| Error Message | What It Really Means | Quick Fix |
|---|---|---|
| "Verification Failed" | Apple servers are down or device date/time wrong | Check apple.com/support/system-status; fix device clock |
| "Cannot Connect to Apple ID Server" | Network issues or Apple outage | Switch to cellular data; wait 1 hour |
| "Incorrect current password" | You mistyped OR recently changed it elsewhere | Wait 15 mins; try again slowly |
| "Account Locked for Security" | Too many failed attempts | Visit iforgot.apple.com to unlock |
When Two-Factor Authentication Blocks You
If you lost access to your trusted phone number:
- Attempt reset at iforgot.apple.com
- Choose "Can't access trusted devices?"
- Select "Don't have access to any?"
- Enter recovery key (if enabled)
- If no key, you must contact Apple Support with proof of ownership
Brutal truth: Without recovery options, you might lose access permanently. Set them up NOW.
Your Burning Questions Answered (Real User FAQs)
How do I change my Apple ID password without knowing the old one?
You can't directly. You must use account recovery at iforgot.apple.com. It'll verify your identity via email, phone, or trusted devices.
Will changing my password log me out everywhere?
On Apple devices, you'll be prompted to enter the new password but stay logged in. Non-Apple devices (like Windows Mail) will require manual re-login.
How often should I change my Apple ID password?
Don't change it randomly. Only do so if: 1) You suspect hacking, 2) You shared it accidentally, or 3) It's weak/compromised. Frequent changes lead to forgotten passwords.
Why does Apple delay account recovery for days?
Security measure. The waiting period prevents hackers from rushing through recovery. They monitor for suspicious activity during this time.
Can I change my Apple ID password from someone else's device?
Yes – go to appleid.apple.com in a private browser window. But avoid public computers. Better to use your own non-Apple device if possible.
What if I forgot my security questions?
If you set up two-factor authentication (post-2015 accounts), questions aren't used. Otherwise, you'll need account recovery.
How do I change my Apple ID password if my phone is broken?
Use another device to access appleid.apple.com. If locked out, borrow a friend's iPhone: Go to Settings > [Their Name] > Sign Out temporarily, then sign in with your Apple ID.
Final Thoughts: Keeping Your Apple ID Secure
Look, I get it—passwords are annoying. But after seeing clients lose years of photos because they ignored recovery setups, I'm militant about this. Bookmark this page. Save the recovery key. Add a backup phone number. And next time someone asks "how do I change my Apple ID password," send them here. Stay safe out there.
Leave a Comments