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7.1. How to reset your Mac password (recovery mode)

How to reset your Mac password

Apple provides a tool to replace Mac’s password by bypassing all of the previous steps. This is the best option if you don’t have a password hint, can’t log in via another account, and have completely forgotten your password.

For Intel-based Mac:

1. Go to Apple menu > Restart.
2. Immediately press and hold Command+R.
3. Don’t release the keys until you hear Mac’s startup sound or until the Apple logo appears.

For Mac with Apple silicon:

1. When turning on your Mac, press and hold the Power button.
2. Keep it pressed until you see startup options.
3. Click the Gears icon (Options) and hit Continue.
4. You may be asked to select a user and enter their administrator password. Follow on-screen instructions and click Next after any action you take.

Now, your Mac will boot into recovery mode — when you see the load bar appear, you can let go of the keys. The next thing to do is to select ‘Disk Utility’ and click Continue. Now, follow these steps:

1. Go to Utilities > Terminal.
2. Enter ‘resetpassword’ and press the Return key.
3. Select the main hard drive.
4. Select the User Account (the account you’d like to change).
5. Enter a new password and create a password hint.
6. Click Save: a warning will appear that the Keychain Password hasn’t changed. Click OK.
7. Shut Down your Mac and start it up again. Now, you can log in using the new password.