We’ve all done it—rushed through a sign-up screen and accidentally picked a random birth year just to get to the content faster. But on TikTok, that small mistake can have big consequences. Whether you’re suddenly blocked from using TikTok Shop, unable to go LIVE, or stuck with “restricted mode” filters, having the wrong age on your profile is a major vibe-killer.
Since TikTok removed the “edit” button for birthdays to keep the platform safe, you can’t just swap your age in a couple of taps anymore. But don’t worry—your account isn’t doomed. In this guide, we’re breaking down the official (and working) ways to verify your real age and get your account back in full gear.
How to Change Your Age on TikTok
The 13-year age limit on TikTok serves a dual purpose: safeguarding minors from potentially harmful content and ensuring strict compliance with the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) in the United States.
To prevent users from bypassing these safety protocols, TikTok has removed the ability to manually edit birthdates within the app settings. Furthermore, as an added layer of protection, the platform automatically sets all accounts for users under 16 to private.
If your account has been restricted due to an incorrect birthdate, here are two effective methods to verify your age and regain full access.
Way 1: Contact TikTok Support Team to Change Your Age (Recommended)
Since TikTok has removed the feature to edit your birthdate from its app, you will need to contact their support team to change your age. You can contact support through the app if your account is still working. Otherwise, you will need to contact them through email. Below are the steps to contact support for changing your age through the TikTok app on your smartphone:
Step 1: Open your TikTok app and tap on “Profile” from the bottom right corner. Next, touch on “Three Lines” from the top right corner of the profile screen and access “Settings and Privacy.”
Step 2: Now navigate to the “Support & About” section and tap “Report a Problem.” Press “Account and Profile” on the next screen and tap “Editing Profile.”
Step 3: Here, choose “Other,” and on the next window, press “Need More Help?” It will open a feedback form where you can mention your problem and request the support team to solve it.
Way 2: Create a New TikTok Account to Change Your Age (Not-Recommended)
If your TikTok account has been placed under age restriction, you can create a new TikTok account with the correct age. However, it is not the recommended method, as you will lose all of your old account data and followers.
If you are underage, you should not try to create a new account with a false age. Lying about your age can result in legal difficulties for you if caught. You can create a new TikTok account on your smartphone using TikTok app through these steps:
Step 1: Download and install the TikTok app through Google Play Store or App Store and open it. Agree to their terms and services and tap “Profile” from the bottom right corner to navigate to the signup page.
Step 2: If you choose “Email or Phone,” you will need to provide your “Email” or “Phone” on the next screen. You will need to go through a verification CAPTCHA and, on the next screen, create a password for your account. Provide your correct birthdate and press “Next” to complete the account creation.
Step 3: You can also use your Google, Facebook, Apple, or Twitter account to create your TikTok account. Pressing any of these will take you to the respective app for login verification. Provide the confirmation, and your TikTok account will be created.
How to Verify Age on TikTok
Age verification on TikTok is a crucial security measure that ensures platform compliance and protects younger users. Whether you’re accessing LIVE features, joining TikTok Shop, or resolving age restrictions, understanding the verification process helps maintain full account functionality.
When Age Verification is Required
TikTok enforces age verification in specific situations to comply with safety regulations. Users must be at least 13 years old to use TikTok, while premium features require users to be 18 or older. The verification process becomes mandatory when:
- Attempting to access LIVE streaming capabilities
- Joining TikTok Shop as a creator or seller
- Appealing an age-related account restriction
- Updating incorrectly entered birthdate information
Available Verification Methods
TikTok offers multiple verification pathways depending on your location and circumstances. Each method balances security with user convenience while maintaining accuracy standards.
Method 1: Government ID with Selfie Verification
This method uses third-party verification partners like Incode to authenticate your identity through official documents.
Step 1: When prompted for age verification, select the ID verification option and prepare your government-issued identification.
Step 2: Capture clear photographs of your ID with all text legible and edges visible. Accepted documents include valid passports, driver’s licenses, national ID cards, or state-issued identification.
Step 3: Take a real-time selfie following on-screen instructions. The system analyzes facial features against your ID photo to confirm identity matching.
Step 4: Review and authorize data sharing with TikTok’s verification partner through their privacy agreement.
The process completes within 15 minutes. Note that exiting prematurely requires waiting an additional 15 minutes before reattempting.
Method 2: Facial Age Estimation
For users without immediate ID access, TikTok provides AI-powered age estimation technology partnered with services like Yoti.
Step 1: Select facial age estimation when presented with verification options.
Step 2: Position your face within the designated frame with proper lighting and full visibility. Remove accessories that create shadows, though prescription glasses are acceptable.
Step 3: Submit the real-time capture. Previously saved photos from your gallery are not permitted.
Step 4: The AI system analyzes facial characteristics to estimate your age. Results typically process within minutes.
Note: This method estimates rather than confirms exact age, making it suitable for general access but potentially insufficient for premium features requiring definitive proof.
Method 3: Credit Card Authorization
This financial verification method confirms you possess legal capacity to hold payment instruments, validating adult status.
Step 1: Navigate to the credit card verification option within age confirmation settings.
Step 2: Input valid credit card details including card number, expiration date, and security code.
Step 3: Authorize a temporary verification charge. This nominal amount serves solely for authentication purposes.
Step 4: Receive automatic refund processing once verification completes successfully.
This method typically completes within 15 minutes and requires access to payment instruments issued to individuals 18 or older.
Conclusion
Navigating TikTok’s safety settings can feel like a maze, but getting your birthdate corrected is the key to unlocking the platform’s best features. From joining the Creator Fund to finally going LIVE with your followers, having a verified age ensures you’re getting the full experience without the “underage” restrictions holding you back.
Remember, the best way to avoid future headaches is to be ready with your ID or a quick selfie for their verification team. Once you’re all set, you can get back to what really matters: creating viral content and growing your community.