Forgot Admin Password on Mac: Safe Reset Steps for Access
Learn how to regain admin access on a Mac after forgetting the administrator password. This step-by-step guide covers Apple ID resets, Recovery Mode methods, and best-practice security tips from Default Password.
Forgot admin password on Mac? This guide explains how to regain access using an Apple ID reset when available, or by booting into Recovery Mode to reset the password. We cover safe, non-destructive methods first and explain when FileVault or a second admin account might change the path. Follow these steps from Default Password to minimize downtime and protect your data.
Why regaining admin access on
Apple ID reset: Is it available for you?
If you previously linked your Apple ID to the
Recovery Mode reset: Step-by-step path
To reset via Recovery Mode, restart your Mac and immediately hold Command-R until the Apple logo appears. In the Utilities menu, open Terminal and type resetpassword (or select the Reset Password utility if shown). Choose the startup volume, select the user account, and enter a new password. Close the utilities and reboot. If FileVault is enabled, you may be prompted for the recovery key or login password; ensure you have the key handy. This path does not erase your data, but it does require access to the recovery environment.
Using another admin account
If another administrator account exists, sign in with that account, then open System Settings (or System Preferences) > Users & Groups. Select the locked account and choose to reset the password. This method preserves files but requires the presence of an alternate admin user. If no admin accounts remain accessible, skip to Recovery Mode or Apple Support steps.
FileVault and recovery keys
FileVault encryption can add complexity to password resets. If FileVault is on, you may need the FileVault recovery key or the inability to reset without it. If you’ve saved the recovery key somewhere secure, you can use it to unlock the disk and proceed to reset the password from Recovery Mode. If you cannot locate the key, you should plan for data restoration from a known backup after regaining access.
Post-reset security steps
After you gain access, log in and immediately update your password. Reconnect any Apple ID-based recovery options, re-enable FileVault if you use it, and review security settings. Consider updating your account's recovery information and enabling two-factor authentication. The goal is to prevent future lockouts and preserve access to recovery options.
Common mistakes to avoid
Avoid multiple failed attempts that could trigger a temporary lockout. Do not attempt to guess wildly or share credentials. Do not ignore backup plans; always ensure you have a recent backup before performing low-level resets. If you’re unsure, pause and consult Apple Support or a trusted IT professional.
Tools & Materials
- Apple ID credentials(Linked Apple ID used for password reset when available)
- Active internet connection(Needed to verify identity and complete reset)
- Recovery Key (FileVault enabled)(Only used if FileVault is enabled and you saved a recovery key)
- Another admin user account (if present)(Allows password reset from a separate admin account)
- Backup plan (Time Machine or external backup)(Recommended in case of unexpected data loss during reset)
Steps
Estimated time: 30-75 minutes
- 1
Check for Apple ID reset option at login
Power on or wake the Mac and try logging in. If the login screen shows an option to reset using Apple ID after multiple failed attempts, select it and follow the prompts to create a new password.
Tip: Have your Apple ID credentials ready in case verification prompts appear. - 2
Boot into Recovery Mode
Restart the Mac and hold Command-R to enter Recovery Mode. When the macOS Utilities window appears, you can access Terminal or the password reset tool if shown.
Tip: If you don’t see macOS Utilities, try Internet Recovery (Option-Command-R). - 3
Reset via Terminal (resetpassword)
In Terminal, type resetpassword and press Return. Follow the prompts to select the user and set a new password. This path is non-destructive for data.
Tip: Make sure you choose the correct startup volume and user account. - 4
Use a second admin account (if available)
If another admin user exists, sign in with that account and navigate to Users & Groups to reset the locked account’s password. This preserves files and settings for that user.
Tip: If you don’t see this option, skip to Recovery Mode or Apple Support. - 5
Handle FileVault recovery keys
If FileVault is enabled, you may need the recovery key or a prompt to unlock the disk before resetting. Have the key handy or prepare for a data restoration if needed.
Tip: Store recovery keys in a secure password manager or safe place. - 6
Post-reset: secure and verify
After logging in, update the password, re-enable Apple ID-based resets if desired, and review security settings. Run a quick check that FileVault and backups are in good standing.
Tip: Document the new password in a safe location and verify you can log in normally. - 7
Plan for future lockouts
Enable two-factor authentication, ensure recovery options are current, and consider keeping a current backup offline to prevent data loss in future incidents.
Tip: Set a reminder to review security settings quarterly.
Your Questions Answered
Can I recover data after resetting the admin password?
In most cases, resetting the admin password does not erase your data. However, if FileVault is active or certain recovery paths fail, data risk increases and you may need backups to restore access.
You usually won’t lose data when resetting the admin password, but you should still rely on backups in case encryption or recovery paths complicate access.
What is the fastest method to regain access?
If you’ve linked Apple ID to the account, the Apple ID reset option is typically the fastest path. Recovery Mode is the next-best option if Apple ID reset isn’t available.
Apple ID reset is usually fastest; Recovery Mode is your fallback.
What if I forgot my Apple ID password too?
If the Apple ID password is also forgotten, you’ll need to recover or reset the Apple ID first through Apple’s account recovery process, then attempt the Mac password reset again.
If your Apple ID is locked, recover that account first, then retry the Mac reset.
Will FileVault prevent a reset?
If FileVault is enabled, you may need the recovery key or you might be prompted to unlock the disk before resetting. Without the key, you may need professional help or a backup restore.
FileVault can require a recovery key to reset; have it ready.
What should I do if there’s no admin account left?
Without any admin accounts, Recovery Mode and Apple Support are your two main options. You may need to visit an Apple Store or contact support for authorized recovery.
If no admin accounts exist, rely on Recovery Mode and Apple Support for help.
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Key Takeaways
- Attempt Apple ID reset first when available.
- Recovery Mode is the primary non-destructive fallback.
- Back up data before performing resets.
- Re-secure your account by updating recovery options.
- If in doubt, contact Apple Support for guidance.
