Published 2023-04-10 by TechNet New England
If you forget your Mac login password, the reset process depends on your setup: whether you linked your account to an Apple ID, whether FileVault is enabled, and whether you have another admin account. ## Method 1: Reset Using Apple ID If your Mac account is linked to your Apple ID (this is the most common setup): 1. On the login screen, enter the wrong password three times. 2. A message will appear: "If you forgot your password, you can reset it using your Apple ID." 3. Click the arrow next to the message. 4. Enter your Apple ID email and password. 5. Follow the prompts to create a new login password. 6. Your Mac may need to restart after the reset. ## Method 2: Reset Using Another Admin Account If there is another admin account on the Mac: 1. Sign in to the other admin account. 2. Open **System Settings > Users and Groups**. 3. Click the **Info** button (the "i" icon) next to the account you need to reset. 4. Click **Reset Password**. 5. Enter a new password and a hint. 6. Sign out and sign in to the reset account with the new password. ## Method 3: Reset from Recovery Mode If Apple ID reset is not available and there is no other admin account: **For Apple Silicon Macs (M1, M2, M3, M4):** 1. Shut down the Mac completely. 2. Press and hold the **power button** until you see "Loading startup options." 3. Click **Options** and then **Continue** to enter Recovery Mode. **For Intel Macs:** 1. Restart the Mac. 2. Immediately press and hold **Command + R** until you see the Apple logo or a spinning globe. Once in Recovery Mode: 1. From the menu bar, click **Utilities > Terminal**. 2. Type `resetpassword` and press Return. 3. The Reset Password assistant will open. 4. Select the user account you need to reset. 5. Enter a new password and click **Next**. 6. Restart the Mac and sign in with the new password. ## Important Notes About FileVault If FileVault (disk encryption) is enabled, you may be asked for your FileVault recovery key during the reset process. This is a long alphanumeric code that was generated when FileVault was first enabled. If you do not have the recovery key and cannot reset through Apple ID, contact your IT provider. They may have the recovery key stored in a management system. ## If Your Mac Is Managed by an Organization If your Mac is enrolled in an MDM (Mobile Device Management) system like Jamf or Mosyle, your IT provider can reset your password remotely. Contact your help desk instead of attempting recovery mode, as MDM-managed devices may have restrictions on local password resets.