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

If you’ve ever been frustrated by your iPad suddenly locking up because of a time limit, you’re not alone. Apple’s Screen Time feature is designed to help users manage device usage, but sometimes it feels more like a roadblock than a helpful tool. Whether you set it yourself, or someone else (like a parent) did, you may be wondering: Can I actually remove the time limit on my iPad?

The good news is—yes, you can. In this guide, I’ll walk you through step-by-step methods to remove or bypass time limits on your iPad and enjoy unlimited usage. Let’s dive right in.

Table of Contents

What is the Screen Time Limit on iPad?

Before we get into the how-to, let’s clarify what this feature actually does.

Screen Time Explained

Screen Time is Apple’s built-in parental control and productivity feature. It allows you to:

Set app limits (like only 1 hour of TikTok per day).
Restrict downtime (specific hours where the iPad becomes locked).
Block or allow content and websites.

Why People Want to Remove It

Sure, it’s helpful for kids, but adults often find it unnecessary. If you’re using your iPad for work, streaming, or gaming, those constant reminders can feel more like an annoying babysitter than a productivity booster.

Things to Know Before You Remove Time Limits

Before you dive into the settings, keep these points in mind:

You’ll need your Screen Time passcode (if one is set).
If you forgot the passcode, there are still ways to reset it.
If the iPad is managed by a parent or guardian, you may need their Apple ID credentials.

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

Let’s break it down into simple steps so you can follow along easily.

Step 1: Open the Settings App

The Settings app is your control center. Simply tap the gray gear icon on your iPad’s home screen.

Step 2: Navigate to Screen Time

Once in Settings, scroll down until you see Screen Time. Tap it.

Step 3: Enter Your Screen Time Passcode

If Screen Time has a passcode set, you’ll need to enter it here. This passcode is different from your regular device passcode.

👉 Forgot your passcode? Don’t panic—we’ll cover that in a moment.

Step 4: Turn Off App Limits

Tap App Limits.
Select the apps with time restrictions.
Tap Delete Limit.

Boom—no more daily app restrictions.

Step 5: Disable Downtime

Go back to the main Screen Time page.
Tap Downtime.
Toggle Downtime off.

This stops your iPad from auto-locking during certain hours.

Step 6: Turn Off Screen Time Completely (Optional)

Want to get rid of all restrictions? Here’s how:

Scroll down to the bottom of the Screen Time page.
Tap Turn Off Screen Time.
Enter your passcode if prompted.

And just like that—your iPad is completely free from time limits.

What If You Forgot Your Screen Time Passcode?

Don’t remember the passcode? Don’t worry—it happens more often than you think. Here’s what to do:

Method 1: Use Apple ID Recovery

On the Screen Time page, tap Forgot Passcode?
Enter your Apple ID and password.
Follow the prompts to reset your passcode.

Method 2: Reset iPad via Finder or iTunes

If you can’t recover it with Apple ID:

Connect your iPad to a computer.
Open Finder (Mac) or iTunes (Windows).
Put your iPad into recovery mode.
Choose Restore.

⚠️ This will erase your device, so make sure you back up first.

How to Bypass Screen Time Without a Passcode (For Kids & Teens)

Now, this is where things get interesting. Kids are clever—and many have figured out workarounds. While I don’t encourage breaking parental rules, here are a few known tricks:

Change the Time Zone: Go to Settings > General > Date & Time. Turn off Set Automatically and adjust the time to “reset” limits.
Reinstall Apps: Delete the restricted app and reinstall it. Sometimes limits don’t carry over.
Use Safari: Instead of a blocked app, just use the website version (e.g., YouTube.com).

Again—use responsibly.

Advanced Methods to Remove Time Limits

For tech-savvy users, here are some extra tricks:

Method 1: Use a Third-Party Tool

Apps like iMyFone LockWiper or Tenorshare 4uKey can remove Screen Time passcodes without data loss.

Method 2: Restore from Backup

If you previously backed up your iPad before Screen Time was enabled, restoring from that backup can remove restrictions.

Pros and Cons of Removing Time Limits

Let’s keep it real—removing Screen Time has both benefits and drawbacks.

Pros

Unlimited freedom to use your iPad.
No interruptions during gaming, streaming, or work.
More control over your own device.

Cons

Easier to lose track of time and overuse.
Kids may get unrestricted access (bad news for parents).
Less balance between productivity and entertainment.

When Should You Keep Screen Time Enabled?

Sometimes, Screen Time is worth keeping. You may want to keep it on if:

You’re trying to manage your child’s device usage.
You want to cut down on your own screen addiction.
You use it as a reminder to take breaks.

Tips to Manage iPad Usage Without Screen Time

If you don’t want limits but still want balance, try these instead:

1. Use Focus Mode

Set custom Focus profiles (like Work, Sleep, Gaming) to manage notifications and reduce distractions.

2. Practice Self-Discipline

Sometimes, the best control is personal discipline. Try the “Pomodoro Technique”—25 minutes of use followed by a 5-minute break.

3. Use Third-Party Apps

Apps like RescueTime or Forest help track usage without locking you out.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Issue 1: Can’t Turn Off Screen Time

Make sure you’re logged into the correct Apple ID.
Update iPadOS to the latest version.

Issue 2: Screen Time Keeps Coming Back

Sometimes Screen Time reappears after updates. If so, repeat the process to turn it off.

Issue 3: Restrictions Still Apply After Turning Off

Try restarting your iPad or signing out/in of your Apple ID.

Conclusion

Removing the time limit on your iPad is simple once you know your way around the settings. Whether you want to lift app restrictions, disable downtime, or completely turn off Screen Time, Apple gives you the control to do it. Just remember—while freedom is great, balance is key. Unlimited iPad time can be fun, but don’t forget to look up from the screen once in a while.

FAQs

1. Can I remove Screen Time without the passcode?
Yes, by using your Apple ID recovery option or third-party tools like iMyFone LockWiper.

2. Will turning off Screen Time delete my apps or data?
No, it only removes restrictions—it won’t erase your apps, files, or media.

3. Can parents still re-enable Screen Time after I turn it off?
Yes, if they know the passcode or Apple ID linked to the iPad.

4. Is it safe to use third-party tools to remove Screen Time?
Most reputable tools are safe, but always download from official websites to avoid malware.

5. Can I remove Screen Time remotely?
No, you need access to the iPad itself to disable or change Screen Time settings.