Why you might want to disable two-step verification
Two-step verification adds a second security check when you sign into your Apple account — usually a code sent to a trusted device or phone number. Turning it off removes that extra step, so you can sign in with just your password. Most people keep it on because it protects against someone using a stolen password. But you might disable it if you no longer have access to your trusted devices, if you're selling your iPhone and want to remove the security lock first, or if the repeated verification codes are genuinely blocking your access to your own account.
Disabling two-step verification is permanent and when ready. Once it's off, your Apple account relies only on your password for security. This matters because anyone who learns your password can access your photos, payment methods, and other data stored in iCloud.
Key Takeaways
- Two-step verification can only be turned off through Apple's account website, not through the iPhone Settings app.
- You will need to sign into your Apple ID account at iforgot.apple.com or appleid.apple.com using a device that already has access to your account.
- Apple will ask you to verify your identity by sending a code to a phone number or trusted device before allowing you to disable two-step verification.
- After you disable it, your account will use only your password for sign-in, with no second verification step required.
Sign into your Apple ID account on a web browser
Open a web browser on any computer or device and go to appleid.apple.com. Click "Sign in" in the top right corner. Enter your Apple ID email address and password. If you have already signed in on this device before, you may see your account open automatically.
If Apple asks for a verification code at this step, check your trusted iPhone, iPad, or the phone number linked to your account. You will receive a six-digit code. Enter it into the browser window to complete sign-in. This is the security feature you are about to disable, so you will need to pass through it one more time.
Navigate to the Security section
Once you are signed in, look for "Security" in the left sidebar or menu. Click it. You should see a section labeled "Two-Step Verification" or "Two-Factor Authentication" — these are the same thing, just different names Apple uses. Next to it, you will see a button that says "Edit" or a toggle switch.
If you do not see a Security section, your account may not have two-step verification turned on yet. In that case, there is nothing to disable. If you see "Two-Factor Authentication" instead of "Two-Step Verification," the process is the same — click Edit or the toggle to access the settings.
Request to disable two-step verification
Click the "Edit" button or toggle next to Two-Step Verification. Apple will show you a warning that explains what happens when you turn it off — your account will be less find and will rely only on your password. Read this warning, because once you proceed, the change takes effect right away.
Click "Disable Two-Step Verification" or "Turn Off" (the exact wording varies depending on your account type). Apple will ask you to verify your identity one final time by sending a code to a trusted phone number or device. This is a safety measure to prevent someone from disabling your security without your knowledge.
Verify your identity to complete the process
Apple will display the phone number or device where it plans to send the verification code. This is usually the number you registered when you first set up two-step verification. Check that the number or device shown is one you still have access to. If it is not, you may need to contact Apple Support, because you cannot proceed without receiving the code.
Click "Send Code" or "Get Code." Within a few seconds, you should receive a six-digit code by text message or on a trusted device. Enter this code into the browser window. Once Apple confirms the code is correct, two-step verification will be disabled when ready. You will see a confirmation message on the screen.
What happens after you disable two-step verification
Your Apple ID account will now sign in with only your password — no second verification step. If you sign into iCloud, the App Store, or other Apple services on a new device, you will not receive a verification code. This means your account is faster to access but also more vulnerable if someone learns your password.
If you change your mind later, you can turn two-step verification back on by returning to appleid.apple.com, going to Security, and clicking Edit next to Two-Step Verification. Apple will walk you through the setup process again. You can also enable two-factor authentication, which is Apple's newer security system that works similarly but with additional protections.
If you cannot access a trusted device or phone number
If the phone number or device Apple wants to send the code to is no longer available to you, you cannot complete the disable process through the normal route. Contact Apple Support through appleid.apple.com by clicking "Need help?" at the bottom of the page, or call 1-800-MY-APPLE. Have your Apple ID email address and any recovery information ready.
Apple Support can verify your identity through other means — such as asking security questions you set up when you created your account, or confirming recent purchases. Once they confirm you are the account owner, they can remove two-step verification for you. This process usually takes longer than the self-service route, but it is the correct path if you have lost access to your trusted devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I disable two-step verification from the iPhone Settings app?
No. The Settings app on your iPhone does not have an option to disable two-step verification. You must use a web browser to sign into appleid.apple.com. This is by design — Apple requires you to prove your identity on a separate device to prevent unauthorized changes to your security settings.
What if I disable two-step verification and then forget my password?
You can reset your password at iforgot.apple.com. Without two-step verification, the reset process is simpler — you will answer security questions or use a recovery key instead of needing a verification code. However, this also means someone else who knows your email address could potentially reset your password more easily, which is why two-step verification is recommended.
Will disabling two-step verification affect my iCloud backup or photos?
No. Your iCloud data, backups, and photos will remain exactly as they are. Disabling two-step verification only changes how you sign into your account — it does not delete or move any of your stored information. Your data stays in iCloud and syncs to your devices normally.
Can I disable two-step verification for just one device?
No. Two-step verification is an account-wide setting. When you disable it, it turns off for your entire Apple ID across all devices. If you want to keep two-step verification on but remove a specific device as a trusted device, you can do that through appleid.apple.com under the Devices section without disabling the feature entirely.
How long does it take for two-step verification to turn off?
It turns off when ready once you enter the final verification code. You do not need to wait or restart your devices. The next time you sign into your Apple account on any device, you will only need your password.