Problems with recovering Macbook password

Hello, after restarting my MacBook, I was asked for my user password. Previously, I was using touch id. However, the password was incorrect (even though I hadn't changed it). After several attempts, I decided to reset the password, but I was asked for a 24-digit disk code that I hadn't saved. Now, I can't reinstall the system or change the password. What should I do?

MacBook Pro 14″, macOS 26.0

Posted on Oct 24, 2025 4:40 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Oct 26, 2025 9:57 AM

That code is a FileVault Recovery key: FileVault recovery options - Apple Support. If you no longer have that code and you eventually exhaust all attempts to retrieve it (from iCloud, for example) then the only recourse is to erase the startup disk:


Erase and reinstall macOS


How to start up from macOS Recovery - Apple Support


Use macOS Recovery on a Mac with Apple silicon - Apple Support


If you still don't get anywhere please write back and I'll attempt to duplicate the concern. Let us know how far you get.

5 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Oct 26, 2025 9:57 AM in response to Gorynych007

That code is a FileVault Recovery key: FileVault recovery options - Apple Support. If you no longer have that code and you eventually exhaust all attempts to retrieve it (from iCloud, for example) then the only recourse is to erase the startup disk:


Erase and reinstall macOS


How to start up from macOS Recovery - Apple Support


Use macOS Recovery on a Mac with Apple silicon - Apple Support


If you still don't get anywhere please write back and I'll attempt to duplicate the concern. Let us know how far you get.

Oct 26, 2025 10:18 AM in response to Gorynych007

Then it's simple, because you did not bother to safely store the password you need to take the computer to your local Apple Authorized Service Provider along with proof of ownership and they can unlock it for you.


Not to lecture you, but you should be using either a third party password manager such as 1Password or start using the Password app on your computer and sync with your other devices using iCloud so you can safely manage passwords and other information you need to have. Operating any device and solely using your memory to remember is a poor idea.

Oct 26, 2025 11:50 AM in response to John Galt

John Galt wrote:
...

If you still don't get anywhere please write back and I'll attempt to duplicate the concern.


I did. To follow up, what you need to do after booting Recovery is to ignore requests for a password or a FV Recovery Key or anything else you don't know. Instead, select the Recovery Assistant menu at the upper left, adjacent to the  (Apple) menu, and select Erase Mac...


Not one but two confirmation dialogs will appear asking if that's what you really want to do. When it finishes you will need to reinstall macOS, followed by restoring its content from a Time Machine backup. Otherwise, set it up as a new Mac the same way you did when you bought it.


That's all you can do and there is no more. If you still encounter problems by all means write back — perhaps I missed a step or two — but at that point your only recourse may be to schedule a Genius Bar reservation. Should things reach that point you will absolutely, positively require that Mac's original dated sales receipt or invoice unequivocally demonstrating to their satisfaction that you are that Mac's rightful owner. Apple is deadly serious about your data security, so expect rigid adherence to that requirement.


I'll await your report of success.

Problems with recovering Macbook password

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