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Forgot Mac Admin Password? How to Reset It

Locked out of your Mac? Here's how to reset your admin password using Recovery Mode, your Apple ID, or another admin account — without losing your data.

⏱️ 10-20 min 💪 Moderate 💻 All Macs

Before You Start

You have several options depending on your Mac setup:

  • Apple Silicon Mac (M1/M2/M3/M4): Use Recovery Mode with power button hold
  • Intel Mac: Use Recovery Mode with Command+R at startup
  • Has another admin account: Use that account to reset your password
  • FileVault enabled: You'll need your recovery key or Apple ID
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Method 1: Reset via Apple ID (Easiest)

When the Login Screen Shows "Reset with Apple ID"

After 3 failed password attempts, macOS may offer this option:

  1. Enter your password incorrectly 3 times
  2. Click "Reset it using your Apple ID" if it appears
  3. Enter your Apple ID and password
  4. Follow the prompts to create a new password
  5. Restart your Mac
Note: This option only appears if your account is linked to an Apple ID. It won't show on accounts not connected to Apple ID.

Method 2: Recovery Mode (Most Reliable)

Apple Silicon Mac (M1/M2/M3/M4)

  1. Shut down your Mac completely
  2. Press and hold the power button until "Loading startup options" appears
  3. Click Options, then click Continue
  4. Select your startup disk, click Next
  5. Select an admin account, enter its password (if you have another admin)
  6. From the menu bar, choose Utilities → Terminal
  7. Type: resetpassword and press Enter
  8. Select your account and set a new password
  9. Restart your Mac

Intel Mac

  1. Restart your Mac
  2. Immediately hold Command + R until the Apple logo appears
  3. You'll see the macOS Recovery screen
  4. Choose Utilities → Terminal from the menu bar
  5. Type: resetpassword and press Enter
  6. Select your user account
  7. Enter a new password and confirm
  8. Click Save, then restart

Method 3: Use Another Admin Account

If Another Admin User Exists on This Mac

  1. Log in as the other admin user
  2. Go to System Settings → Users & Groups
  3. Click the lock icon and authenticate
  4. Select the locked account
  5. Click "Reset Password"
  6. Enter a new password
  7. Log out and log back in with the new password

FileVault Considerations

FileVault is enabled? You'll need either your Apple ID (if linked) or your FileVault recovery key to unlock the disk before resetting the password. If you have neither, data recovery may not be possible.

Find Your FileVault Recovery Key

If you stored it when enabling FileVault:

  • Check your iCloud account at appleid.apple.com → Security → Recovery Key
  • Check any document or safe where you saved it
  • If your company manages your Mac, contact your IT department

Recommended Tools

USB Password Manager Drive

Hardware password managers let you store credentials securely offline.

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Still Locked Out?

If Recovery Mode doesn't work, FileVault is blocking access, or the Mac is managed by an organization, you may need professional help. In worst cases, a clean macOS reinstall may be required (which erases data).

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Locked out of your Mac? Contact PC Medics of New Jersey for expert assistance.

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