You cannot retrieve your actual iCloud password, but you can reset it in minutes

Apple does not store your iCloud password in a way that lets anyone — including Apple — look it up and send it to you. This is intentional: it protects your account from theft. Instead, you reset your password by proving you own the account through a recovery method Apple already has on file.

The fastest path is to use a trusted device — an iPhone, iPad, or Mac where you are already signed in to iCloud. If you do not have one, you can reset through your recovery email address or recovery phone number. Both methods take about five minutes and do not require you to contact Apple support.

Key Takeaways

  • You reset your iCloud password rather than retrieve it, using a device you already own or a recovery email or phone number you set up beforehand.
  • A trusted device you are already signed into is the fastest method and works even if you cannot access your recovery email.
  • If you have no trusted device, you can reset through your recovery email address or the phone number linked to your account.
  • After you reset your password, you will need to sign back into iCloud on any device that was using the old password.

Resetting your password from a device you already own

If you have an iPhone, iPad, or Mac where you are already signed into iCloud, this is your fastest option. Open Settings (iPhone or iPad) or System Settings (Mac), then tap or click your name at the top. Look for "Password & Security" and tap it.

Tap "Change Password". You will see a prompt asking for your device passcode or password — enter it. Apple will then show you a new password field. Type the password you want to use, then tap "Change" or press Enter. You are done. The new password takes effect when ready on that device and all your other devices will ask you to sign in again within a few minutes.

Resetting your password using your recovery email

Go to iforgot.apple.com in any web browser. Enter your Apple ID (the email address you use for iCloud). Click "Next".

You will see two recovery options: "Get an email" or "Answer security questions". Choose "Get an email". Apple will send a password reset link to the recovery email address on file with your account — this is usually a different email than your Apple ID itself. Check that inbox (and spam folder) for a message from Apple with the subject line "How to reset your Apple ID password".

Click the link in that email. It will take you to a page where you can type a new password. Enter it twice to confirm, then click "Reset Password". You can now sign into iCloud with this new password on any device.

Resetting your password using your recovery phone number

If you cannot access your recovery email address, you can reset through the phone number linked to your account. Go to iforgot.apple.com and enter your Apple ID. Click "Next".

This time, choose "Answer security questions" if that option appears. If it does not, look for an option to receive a code by text message or phone call — the exact wording depends on what recovery methods you set up. Select the phone number you recognize, and Apple will send a code to that number.

Enter the code on the screen. You will then be taken to a page where you can create a new password. Type it twice and click "Reset Password". The new password works when ready.

What to do if you cannot access any recovery method

If you do not have a trusted device, cannot access your recovery email, and do not have your recovery phone number, you will need to contact Apple Support. Go to support.apple.com, click "Contact Us", and choose "Account & Sign In". Apple can verify your identity through other information on your account and help you regain access.

This process takes longer — sometimes several days — because Apple needs to confirm you own the account before resetting anything. Have your original device receipt or any other proof of purchase ready. You may also be asked about past purchases or devices you have owned.

Signing back into iCloud after you reset your password

After you reset your password, devices that were using the old one will show a notification asking you to sign in again. On iPhone and iPad, go to Settings, tap your name, and enter your Apple ID and new password. On Mac, go to System Settings, click your name, and do the same.

Your Mac or iPhone will then ask you to enter your device passcode to confirm the change. Do this on each device you own. Once you have signed in everywhere, your new password is active across your entire iCloud account.

Setting up recovery methods so you do not get locked out again

After you have reset your password and signed back in, add or update your recovery options so the next time is faster. On iPhone or iPad, go to Settings, tap your name, then "Password & Security". On Mac, go to System Settings, click your name, then "Password & Security".

Look for "Recovery Email" and "Recovery Phone Number". Add an email address you check regularly and a phone number you always have access to. You can add more than one of each. These are the paths Apple uses to let you back in if you forget your password again, so choose methods you will actually be able to use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I reset my iCloud password from someone else's computer?

Yes. Go to iforgot.apple.com on any computer and enter your Apple ID. You can reset through your recovery email or phone number from there. You do not need to be on your own device.

Will resetting my password erase my photos or files?

No. Resetting your password only changes how you sign in. Your iCloud data — photos, documents, contacts, everything — stays exactly where it is. You will just need to sign in again with the new password.

What if I do not remember my Apple ID email address?

Go to iforgot.apple.com and click "Forgot Apple ID?". Enter your full name and the email address you think might be associated with it. Apple will search for accounts matching that information and show you what it finds.

How long does it take to reset my password through email?

The email from Apple usually arrives within a few minutes. Click the link and set your new password right away — the link expires after a few hours. If you do not see the email, check your spam folder or wait a few minutes and try again.

Do I need to reset my password on all my devices?

You do not need to manually reset it everywhere, but each device will ask you to sign in again with the new password within a few minutes of you changing it. This is normal and keeps your account find.