You can reset your Facebook password without knowing the old one by using your email address or phone number
Facebook's password reset process does not require you to enter your current password. Instead, you verify your identity using either the email address or phone number linked to your account, then create a new password. This works whether you forgot your old password, think your account was compromised, or simply want to change it for security reasons.
The reset happens through Facebook's account recovery system, which sends a verification code to your email or phone. Once you confirm that code, you can set a new password immediately. The entire process usually takes a few minutes.
Key Takeaways
- Go to facebook.com and click "Forgotten password?" on the login screen to start a password reset without your old password.
- Facebook will ask you to confirm your identity using either your email address or the phone number on your account.
- You will receive a code by email or text message that you must enter to prove you own the account.
- After entering the code, you can create a new password and regain access to your account immediately.
- If you cannot access your email or phone number, Facebook has additional recovery options including security questions and trusted contacts.
Starting the password reset from the login screen
Open facebook.com in your web browser and look at the login box. Below the password field, you will see a link that says "Forgotten password?" Click that link. On mobile, the link appears in the same location on the Facebook app login screen.
Facebook will ask you to enter the email address or phone number associated with your account. Type whichever one you have access to. If you are not sure which email you used, try the one you use most often or the one connected to your phone number. Click "Search" or the next button to continue.
Confirming your identity with a code
Facebook will show you a list of email addresses or phone numbers linked to your account, with some digits hidden. Select the one you want to use for recovery. Facebook will send a verification code to that email or phone number within a few minutes.
Check your email inbox or text messages for the code. It is usually a six-digit number. Enter it into the box Facebook provides. If you do not see the code after five minutes, check your spam or junk folder, or ask Facebook to send the code again.
Creating your new password
Once you enter the correct code, Facebook will take you to a screen where you can create a new password. Your new password should be at least six characters long and something you have not used on this account before. Facebook recommends using a mix of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols to make it stronger.
Type your new password twice to confirm you entered it correctly, then click "Continue" or "Set Password." Facebook will log you out of all your devices and sessions, then return you to the login screen. Log in with your new password to regain access to your account.
What to do if you cannot access your email or phone number
If the email address or phone number on your account no longer works, Facebook has backup recovery methods. On the password reset screen, look for a link that says "No longer have access to these?" or "Need more help?" Click it to see additional options.
Facebook may ask you to answer security questions you set up previously, or to identify photos of your friends. Some accounts have a trusted contact feature — a friend you named in advance who can help you regain access. If you set one up, Facebook will send them a special link they can use to confirm your identity. You can then reset your password.
If none of these methods work, you can file a report through Facebook's help center explaining that you cannot access your account. Facebook's support team will review your request, though responses can take several days or longer.
Protecting your new password
After you reset your password, take steps to keep your account secure. Do not share your password with anyone, even friends or family. Do not use the same password on other websites or apps. Consider turning on two-factor authentication, which requires a code from your phone or an authentication app every time you log in from a new device.
To set up two-factor authentication, go to your Facebook settings, click "Security and login," then find the two-factor authentication option. You can choose to receive codes by text message or through an authentication app like Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator. This adds a second layer of protection even if someone learns your password.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to reset my Facebook password?
The reset usually takes five to ten minutes from start to finish. The verification code arrives within a few minutes of requesting it. Once you enter the code and create your new password, you can log in immediately.
Will resetting my password log me out of Facebook on my phone?
Yes. When you reset your password, Facebook logs you out of all devices and apps. You will need to log in again on your phone, tablet, and computer using your new password.
What if I keep getting the wrong code when I try to reset?
Make sure you are entering the exact code Facebook sent you, including any leading zeros. Check your spam folder if you do not see the email. If the code expired, request a new one. Codes are usually valid for a limited time, typically 15 to 30 minutes.
Can I reset my password if my account was hacked?
Yes. If you think someone else is using your account, resetting your password is the first step. After you reset it, review your login activity in settings to see where your account was accessed. Change your password again if you see logins from places you do not recognize.
Do I need to know my old password to change it?
No. Facebook's password reset process does not ask for your old password. You only need access to the email address or phone number on your account to verify your identity and create a new one.