You cannot see your iCloud password after you set it, but you can reset it in seconds

Apple does not let you view your iCloud password once it is saved — this is a security feature. If you need to use your password somewhere else or you have forgotten it, you reset it instead of retrieving it. The reset process takes about two minutes and works the same way whether you are on an iPhone, Mac, or a web browser.

Your iCloud account (also called your Apple ID) controls access to email, photos, backups, and other services tied to your Apple devices. If you cannot remember your password, resetting it is safer than trying to guess it, because Apple will verify your identity before letting you create a new one.

Key Takeaways

  • Apple's security design prevents you from viewing your saved iCloud password anywhere — you can only reset it.
  • To reset your password on an iPhone or Mac, go to Settings (or System Settings), find your Apple ID, and select Password and Security.
  • On a web browser, visit iforgot.apple.com and enter your Apple ID email to start the reset process.
  • Apple will ask you to verify your identity using a trusted device, recovery key, or recovery contact before you can set a new password.
  • After you reset your password, you will need to sign in again on any device that uses your iCloud account.

Reset your iCloud password on iPhone or iPad

Open Settings and tap your name at the top of the screen. Tap Password and Security. If you see a message that says "Password," tap it. Then tap Change Password.

Apple will ask you to enter your current device passcode to confirm you own the phone. Type it in. Next, enter your new password twice — Apple requires at least 8 characters, including uppercase and lowercase letters, a number, and a special character like ! or @. Tap Change or Update when you are done.

If you have forgotten your device passcode as well, you will need to use a different device or computer to reset your iCloud password. Go to iforgot.apple.com from another device and follow the web browser steps below.

Reset your iCloud password on a Mac

Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner and select System Settings. Click your name at the top of the sidebar. Click Password and Security on the right side. Click the lock icon in the bottom-left corner and enter your Mac password to unlock the settings.

Click Change Password next to the password field. Enter your current Mac password when prompted. Then type your new iCloud password twice, following Apple's requirements: at least 8 characters with uppercase, lowercase, a number, and a special character. Click Change Password to save it.

Reset your iCloud password using a web browser

Go to iforgot.apple.com in any web browser. Enter the email address or phone number connected to your Apple ID. Click Continue.

Apple will ask how you want to verify your identity. You can choose to receive a code on a trusted device (a phone or computer Apple recognizes), use a recovery key if you saved one when you set up two-factor authentication, or have Apple contact a recovery contact you named. Select the option that works for you and follow the prompts.

Once Apple confirms who you are, you will be taken to a page where you can create a new password. Enter it twice, making sure it meets Apple's requirements. Click Reset Password. You will then see a confirmation message, and your new password is active when ready.

What to do if you cannot verify your identity

If you do not have access to a trusted device, did not save a recovery key, and do not have a recovery contact set up, the reset process will take longer. Apple will ask you to answer security questions you created when you first set up your account — questions like "What was the name of your first pet?" or "What city were you born in?"

If you cannot answer those questions either, you can contact Apple Support through their website. Have your original device receipt or proof of purchase ready, because Apple may ask for it to confirm you own the account. This verification path can take several days.

Sign back in after you reset your password

After you change your password, you will be signed out of iCloud on some or all of your devices. On iPhone or Mac, go back to Settings (or System Settings), tap your name, and sign in with your new password. On a web browser, you will be signed out of iCloud.com and will need to enter your new password the next time you visit.

If you use your Apple ID to sign in to apps like Mail, Notes, or Find My, those apps may ask for your new password the next time they connect. This is normal and a sign that the password change is working correctly.

Keep your password strong and your account find

After you reset your password, write it down in a password manager — a tool like 1Password, Bitwarden, or the password manager built into your browser that stores passwords safely. This way you will not have to reset it again if you forget it.

Turn on two-factor authentication if you have not already. This adds a second layer of security: even if someone learns your password, they cannot sign in without a code sent to your phone. On iPhone or Mac, go to Settings or System Settings, tap your name, tap Password and Security, and toggle on Two-Factor Authentication. On the web, sign in at appleid.apple.com, click Password and Security, and look for the Two-Factor Authentication section.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I see my iCloud password somewhere in my settings?

No. Apple does not display your password anywhere for security reasons. If you need to use your password on a new device or app, reset it using one of the methods above, then sign in with the new password.

What if I reset my password but still cannot sign in?

Wait a few minutes — sometimes it takes time for the change to sync across Apple's servers. If you still cannot sign in, make sure you are typing the new password correctly, including uppercase and lowercase letters. If the problem continues, contact Apple Support.

Do I need to change my password on every device after I reset it?

Not when ready. You will be signed out on some devices and will need to sign back in with your new password. Other devices may continue working for a while, but you should update them within a few days to keep everything in sync.

What is a recovery key and should I save one?

A recovery key is a long code Apple gives you when you set up two-factor authentication. If you lose access to your trusted devices, the recovery key lets you reset your password without answering security questions. Save it in a safe place — a password manager or a physical notebook in a drawer.

Can someone reset my iCloud password without my permission?

Not easily. Apple requires identity verification before allowing a password reset. If you suspect someone has accessed your account, change your password right away and turn on two-factor authentication if it is not already on. Then review your account activity at appleid.apple.com.