An iPhone has two different codes: the device passcode unlocks the iPhone, while the Screen Time passcode locks Screen Time settings. Apple uses a four-digit Screen Time passcode. Menu names can differ by iOS version, so use Apple's guide for the installed version.
Set a Screen Time Passcode
- Open Settings > Screen Time.
- Tap Lock Screen Time Settings. On some versions, first turn on Screen Time or App & Website Activity.
- Enter a four-digit code, then enter it again to confirm.
- Follow the prompts to set up Screen Time Passcode Recovery with your Apple Account.
The Screen Time passcode prevents changes to the Screen Time settings it protects. It does not replace the code you use to unlock your iPhone. Choose a code that is hard for other people to guess.
Change a Screen Time Passcode
- Open Settings > Screen Time.
- Tap Change Screen Time Passcode, then tap it again.
- Enter the current Screen Time passcode.
- Enter a new four-digit code, then enter it again to confirm.
If you manage a child's settings through Family Sharing, open the child's Screen Time settings on the parent or guardian's device. The current menu path can vary by iOS version. Apple's child passcode guide has the current steps.
If You Forgot the Code
For your own iPhone, open Settings > Screen Time > Change Screen Time Passcode and follow the recovery prompt. Use the same Apple Account that you selected when you set up Screen Time Passcode Recovery. For a child managed through Family Sharing, the family organizer or parent/guardian resets it from their own device. See Apple's recovery instructions.
These steps can differ on older iOS versions. Apple's iOS 27 guide covers current iPhone menus. You can also use Sandflow to view a live app-session timer; it does not lock Screen Time settings or block app access.
