How to Remove Time Limit on iPad: Step-by-Step Guide

If you’ve ever been locked out of your favorite app or your iPad suddenly reminded you that your screen time is over, you’ve probably wondered how to remove the time limit on your iPad. Apple’s Screen Time feature is great for parents who want to limit kids’ usage, but it can be frustrating if you want full control of your device.

Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! In this guide, I’ll walk you through different ways to remove or adjust time limits on your iPad. Whether you’ve forgotten your Screen Time passcode, want to disable restrictions, or just want to tweak the settings, this step-by-step guide will make it simple.

Table of Contents

What Is Screen Time on iPad?

Screen Time is Apple’s built-in digital wellbeing tool. It helps track how much time you spend on apps, websites, and overall device usage. Parents also use it to set restrictions for kids, like app limits, downtime, and content filters.

But here’s the thing: sometimes those restrictions can feel too strict. That’s where removing or adjusting the time limit comes in.

Why Remove the Time Limit on iPad?

You might want to remove Screen Time limits for several reasons:

You accidentally set restrictions too tight.
You’re using the iPad for work or study and need unlimited access.
You no longer want parental controls.
You forgot the Screen Time passcode.

In short, removing time limits gives you more freedom to use your iPad your way.

Step 1: Open Settings on Your iPad

The first step is simple:

Unlock your iPad.
Tap on the Settings app (the gray gear icon).

This is where all Screen Time features are managed.

Step 2: Go to Screen Time

Scroll down and tap Screen Time.
You’ll see your daily and weekly reports along with options like Downtime, App Limits, and Content & Privacy Restrictions.

This is the control center for time limits.

Step 3: Remove App Time Limits

If your apps are restricted by a time limit:

Tap App Limits.
Select the app or category that has a time restriction.
Tap Delete Limit and confirm.

Boom! The limit is gone, and you can use your app without interruptions.

Step 4: Turn Off Downtime

Downtime restricts device use during certain hours (like bedtime). To turn it off:

Go to Downtime.
Toggle the switch off.

Now, your iPad will no longer lock you out during scheduled times.

Step 5: Disable All Screen Time Restrictions

If you want to completely get rid of restrictions:

Scroll to the bottom of the Screen Time page.
Tap Turn Off Screen Time.
Enter your Screen Time passcode (if you set one).

Your iPad will now be completely free of time limits.

Step 6: Forgot Your Screen Time Passcode?

Here’s where things get tricky. If you don’t remember your passcode, don’t panic. You have a few options:

Option 1: Use Apple ID – On newer iOS versions, you can reset Screen Time passcode using your Apple ID. Just follow the on-screen instructions.
Option 2: Reset Device Settings – This will reset restrictions but keep your data intact. Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPad > Reset > Reset All Settings.
Option 3: Restore with iTunes/Finder – If all else fails, you can erase and restore your iPad. This removes the passcode but also clears your device.

Step 7: Temporarily Bypass App Limits

Don’t want to remove limits completely but need a little extra time? You can:

When the “Time Limit Reached” screen appears, tap Ask For More Time.
Enter the Screen Time passcode.
Choose 15 minutes, 1 hour, or All day.

It’s like hitting snooze on your restrictions!

Step 8: Use Family Sharing Controls

If your iPad is managed under Family Sharing, only the family organizer can remove or change the time limit.

Ask the family organizer to open Settings > Screen Time.
From there, they can adjust or remove your restrictions.

Step 9: Update iOS for Easier Control

Sometimes older iOS versions make it harder to manage Screen Time. Updating your iPad ensures you get the latest features like passcode recovery with Apple ID.

Go to Settings > General > Software Update and install the latest version.

Step 10: Consider Third-Party Tools

If you’re locked out completely and standard methods don’t work, there are third-party tools like iToolab UnlockGo, Tenorshare 4uKey, or iMyFone LockWiper that can remove Screen Time passcodes.

⚠️ Warning: Use these tools carefully. Stick to trusted software to avoid security risks.

Pros of Removing Screen Time Limits

Unlimited access to apps and games.
No annoying interruptions while working.
Greater control over your own device.

Cons of Removing Screen Time Limits

Can lead to overuse or distraction.
Kids may spend too much time on devices.
Less parental control.

Like most things, balance is key.

Tips to Manage Screen Time Without Limits

If you’re removing limits but still want healthy habits, try these:

Set personal alarms or reminders.
Use focus modes (Work, Sleep, Do Not Disturb).
Track your own screen time reports.
Take regular breaks (20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds).

When Should You Keep Time Limits?

Time limits are useful if:

You’re managing a child’s iPad.
You want to reduce social media addiction.
You need to focus on work or studies.

Removing them makes sense only when you truly need full control.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to remove time limits on your iPad gives you freedom and flexibility. Whether you want to disable app restrictions, turn off downtime, or completely remove Screen Time, the steps above make it easy. Just remember: unlimited access can be both a blessing and a curse. Use it wisely!

FAQs

Q1: Can I remove Screen Time without the passcode?
Yes, you can reset it using your Apple ID, reset all settings, or use third-party tools if needed.

Q2: Does turning off Screen Time delete my data?
No, your apps and files stay safe. Only restrictions are removed.

Q3: Can kids bypass Screen Time limits easily?
Not unless they know the passcode or Apple ID linked to Screen Time.

Q4: Is Screen Time available on all iPads?
Yes, it works on iPads running iOS 12 or later.

Q5: Should I update iOS before removing Screen Time?
Yes, updating makes the process smoother and gives you recovery options with your Apple ID.