Your Apple ID is the gateway to all things Apple — from your iCloud data and iMessage chats to app downloads and Apple Music. If someone gains access to your Apple ID, they could potentially reach everything on your Apple devices. That’s why knowing how to change your Apple ID password is essential for your digital safety.
Whether you’re doing it for security reasons, you’ve forgotten your current password, or you’re just being proactive, this guide will walk you through all the ways you can update your Apple ID password in 2025. We’ll also cover troubleshooting tips, best practices, and how to stay protected moving forward.
Why Change Your Apple ID Password?
Here are a few common reasons to update your Apple ID password:
- You forgot your current password.
- You received a security alert or unusual login notification.
- You suspect someone else knows your password.
- You’re following good security habits by updating passwords regularly.
Changing your password helps protect your private data and ensures that only you have access to your Apple services.
How to Change Your Apple ID Password on iPhone or iPad
If you’re signed in on your iPhone or iPad, changing your password is quick and easy. Here are the steps you need to follow:
1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap your Apple ID name at the top of the screen.
3. Choose Sign-In & Security
4. Tap Change Password.
5. Enter your device passcode when prompted.
6. Type a new password and confirm it.
Your new password must be at least 8 characters long and include a combination of upper and lowercase letters and numbers. Avoid using obvious combinations like “password123” or your birthdate.
After saving your new password, all your Apple devices and services will use this updated credential.
How to Change Your Apple ID Password on a Mac
Using a Mac? You can easily update your password through system settings:
Follow these instructions:
1. Click the Apple logo () at the top left of your screen.
2. Select System Settings (or System Preferences on older macOS).
3. Click on your Apple ID.
4. Choose Password & Security.
5. Click Change Password.
6. Enter your Mac login password if required.
7. Enter and confirm your new password.
This method is great for MacBook users who want to manage everything from their laptop.
How to Change Your Apple ID Password Online
If you’re not near an Apple device, don’t worry. You can still change your password from any internet browser:
1. Go to appleid.apple.com.
2. Sign in with your Apple ID and current password.
3. Select Sign-In & Security > Password.
4. Enter your current password, then choose a new one.
5. Click Change Password to save.
This method is especially useful if you need to reset your password while using a non-Apple device.
What to Do If You Forgot Your Apple ID Password
If you can’t remember your Apple ID password, you’ll need to reset it. Here’s how:
On an Apple Device:
1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap your name > Password & Security > Change Password.
3. Use Face ID, Touch ID, or your device passcode to continue.
On the Web:
1. Visit iforgot.apple.com.
2. Enter your Apple ID (email).
3. Follow the steps to reset your password using your recovery email, phone number, or security questions.
Once your identity is verified, you can create a new password.
Tips for Creating a Strong Apple ID Password
Your password is your first line of defense. Here are some best practices:
- Use at least 12 characters (Apple requires 8, but more is better).
- Combine uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Avoid obvious choices like names, birthdays, or repeated patterns.
- Don’t reuse passwords from other websites.
- Change your password regularly (every 6-12 months).
- Use a password manager to keep your credentials safe.
Updating Your New Password Across Devices
After you change your Apple ID password, you might be asked to re-enter it on all your devices and Apple services, such as:
- iPhone or iPad
- Mac or MacBook
- Apple Watch
- iCloud
- Apple Music
- App Store
Make sure to update the saved password in your browser or password manager as well.
Final Thoughts
Changing your Apple ID password might seem like a small step, but it’s a huge move toward protecting your personal information. Whether you’re reacting to a possible security breach or just staying ahead of the curve, updating your password regularly is one of the best habits you can build.
Always use a strong, unique password and enable two-factor authentication. And don’t forget to update your password across all devices and services to avoid getting locked out.
Now that you know how to change your Apple ID password, take a moment to do it today and keep your digital life safe.
FAQs: Change Your Apple ID Password
Can I use an old password again?
Apple doesn’t stop you from reusing old passwords, but it’s safer not to. Reused passwords are easy targets for hackers. If one of your old passwords was leaked, someone could try to use it again.
It’s better to make a new, strong password each time to keep your account safe. Unique passwords lower the risk of unwanted access.
Will changing my password sign me out of all devices?
It might not sign you out of every device right away. Apple will ask you to log in again with your new password. Services like iCloud or iMessage may ask for it the next time you use them. It’s smart to sign out of any old devices you no longer use for safety.
What if I can’t access any trusted device?
Use the iforgot.apple.com website. If you’ve set up account recovery, Apple can still verify your identity through your recovery phone number or email.
How do I turn on two-factor authentication?
Go to Settings > Apple ID > Password & Security, and enable Two-Factor Authentication. This adds a second layer of protection to your account.