Locked out of new Macbook Air

Help! I am new to Apple and have a brand new MacBook but I can't remember the password to open it? I signed into iCloud and can't find my device! How do I get rid of the lock or reset it? I


MacBook Air (M3, 2024)

Posted on Mar 5, 2025 08:31 AM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Mar 5, 2025 08:41 AM

I understand how frustrating it can be to get locked out of a new MacBook Air. Here are your options to regain access:

Option 1: Try Password Recovery First

  • Restart your MacBook
  • At the login screen, click on "Forgot password?" or the question mark icon next to the password field
  • If you set up your Apple ID during setup, you can use it to reset your password

Option 2: Recovery Mode Reset

  1. Shut down your MacBook completely
  2. Turn it on while holding Command (⌘) + R until you see the Apple logo
  3. When the Recovery menu appears, select "Utilities" from the top menu bar
  4. Choose "Terminal"
  5. Type resetpassword and press Return
  6. Follow the on-screen instructions to reset your user password

Option 3: If You're Completely Locked Out

If neither of the above methods works:

  • For M1/M2/M3/M4 MacBook Air models: Completely power off, then press and hold the power button until "Loading startup options" appears
  • Select "Options" and continue to Recovery
  • Use "Erase Mac" option (note: this will erase all data)

Finding Your Device in iCloud

If you can't find your device in iCloud:

  • Ensure you're signed in with the same Apple ID you used on the MacBook
  • Go to icloud.com/find or use the Find My app on another Apple device
  • If it still doesn't appear, your MacBook might not be connected to the internet

If you continue to have issues, an Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider can help verify your ownership and assist with unlocking it. Bring your proof of purchase.

3 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Mar 5, 2025 08:41 AM in response to maloneym73

I understand how frustrating it can be to get locked out of a new MacBook Air. Here are your options to regain access:

Option 1: Try Password Recovery First

  • Restart your MacBook
  • At the login screen, click on "Forgot password?" or the question mark icon next to the password field
  • If you set up your Apple ID during setup, you can use it to reset your password

Option 2: Recovery Mode Reset

  1. Shut down your MacBook completely
  2. Turn it on while holding Command (⌘) + R until you see the Apple logo
  3. When the Recovery menu appears, select "Utilities" from the top menu bar
  4. Choose "Terminal"
  5. Type resetpassword and press Return
  6. Follow the on-screen instructions to reset your user password

Option 3: If You're Completely Locked Out

If neither of the above methods works:

  • For M1/M2/M3/M4 MacBook Air models: Completely power off, then press and hold the power button until "Loading startup options" appears
  • Select "Options" and continue to Recovery
  • Use "Erase Mac" option (note: this will erase all data)

Finding Your Device in iCloud

If you can't find your device in iCloud:

  • Ensure you're signed in with the same Apple ID you used on the MacBook
  • Go to icloud.com/find or use the Find My app on another Apple device
  • If it still doesn't appear, your MacBook might not be connected to the internet

If you continue to have issues, an Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider can help verify your ownership and assist with unlocking it. Bring your proof of purchase.

Mar 5, 2025 08:50 AM in response to maloneym73

If you have forgotten your Mac login passcode; after trying three attempts, you should find an option to reset your passcode with your Apple Account.


From there, you simply follow the prompts and your Mac should simply restart like normal.


NOTE: You may need to sign back into iCloud and other services after the successful login.


For a complete step-by-step guide, click here.


Need more help?


Good luck! 👋🏼😉

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Locked out of new Macbook Air

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