I recently turned 18 and expected the child restrictions on my iPhone to disappear automatically. However, I still can't sign out of the account, and some apps and settings require the Screen Time passcode. I'm estranged from the parent who originally bought the phone and manages the family account, so I can't ask them to change the settings. Is there any way to become an adult account or remove these restrictions myself?
3 Answers
Screen Time restrictions are different from age-based family settings. They don’t disappear just because you reach 18—the person who set the Screen Time passcode normally has to disable them. If you can’t access that account, Apple Support may be worth contacting to ask what account-recovery options are available.
If you’re unable to leave the family group or get the passcode reset, creating a new Apple Account may be the fallback, but that can mean losing access to purchases, backups, and other data tied to the current account. Check whether Apple can help verify ownership before starting over.
I can’t even sign out right now because the device is locked by the current restrictions, which makes starting over difficult.
If the restrictions are controlled through Family Sharing, the family organizer usually has to remove you or update your account. Turning 18 doesn’t necessarily remove every family setting automatically.
The issue is that I’m estranged from that parent because of an abusive situation, so contacting them isn’t safe or realistic.