Apple Intelligence is now available on iPhone, iPad, and Mac!

Looks like no one’s replied in a while. To start the conversation again, simply ask a new question.

How do I unlock my MacBook if I forgot the password?

Is there a way for me to get back into a computer that I haven’t used for awhile if I can’t remember the admin password?


[Re-Titled by Moderator]

MacBook Pro 13″, macOS 11.6

Posted on Jun 17, 2023 5:25 PM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jun 18, 2023 3:25 AM

Reset Computer Password  for the Administrator Account Password


Intel Computer


1 - Shutdown the computer 


1A - Restart computer and immediately hold the two keyboard combo Command  r 


1B - If using a Bluetooth Keyboard with Rechargeable Battery - Cable the Keyboard to computer for this unique purpose. Bluetooth Kernel may not load soon enough to execute the 2 keyboard commands 


2 - Top Tool Bar >> Utilities >> Terminal


3 - Type resetpassword as one word and no spaces


4 - Press Return key


5 - Follow the prompts and remember the New Password


Apple Silicon M1 / M2 Computer 


1 - Choose Apple menu > > Shut Down


1B - If using a Bluetooth Keyboard with Rechargeable Battery - Cable the Keyboard to computer for this unique purpose.


2- Do not  attempt a Restart to access this feature. The computer Must be Shutdown and pause for about 10 seconds before moving forwards 


 3 - Press and hold the power button on your Mac until you see “Loading startup options.”


4 - Click Options, then click Continue. 


5 - Top Tool Bar >> Utilities >> Terminal


6 - Type resetpassword as one word and no spaces


7 - Press Return key


8 - Follow the prompts and remember the New Password

3 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jun 18, 2023 3:25 AM in response to Lori_S

Reset Computer Password  for the Administrator Account Password


Intel Computer


1 - Shutdown the computer 


1A - Restart computer and immediately hold the two keyboard combo Command  r 


1B - If using a Bluetooth Keyboard with Rechargeable Battery - Cable the Keyboard to computer for this unique purpose. Bluetooth Kernel may not load soon enough to execute the 2 keyboard commands 


2 - Top Tool Bar >> Utilities >> Terminal


3 - Type resetpassword as one word and no spaces


4 - Press Return key


5 - Follow the prompts and remember the New Password


Apple Silicon M1 / M2 Computer 


1 - Choose Apple menu > > Shut Down


1B - If using a Bluetooth Keyboard with Rechargeable Battery - Cable the Keyboard to computer for this unique purpose.


2- Do not  attempt a Restart to access this feature. The computer Must be Shutdown and pause for about 10 seconds before moving forwards 


 3 - Press and hold the power button on your Mac until you see “Loading startup options.”


4 - Click Options, then click Continue. 


5 - Top Tool Bar >> Utilities >> Terminal


6 - Type resetpassword as one word and no spaces


7 - Press Return key


8 - Follow the prompts and remember the New Password

How do I unlock my MacBook if I forgot the password?

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.