Can I reset my MacBook Pro password if I'm not an administrator

Using Another Admin Account

If there is another user account on the MacBook with admin privileges, you can use that account to reset the password for your account. Here’s how:

1. Log in with the admin account: Use the other admin account to log in to the MacBook.
2. Access Users & Groups: Go to System Preferences > Users & Groups.
3. Unlock the preferences: Click the lock icon at the bottom left and enter the admin password when prompted.
4. Select the user account: Choose the account for which you want to reset the password.
5. Reset the password: Click the Reset Password button and follow the prompts to set a new password.

Using Apple ID (if enabled)

If you had previously enabled the option to reset your password using your Apple ID, you can do so from the login screen:

1. Attempt to log in: Try entering your password a few times until you see a prompt to reset it using your Apple ID.
2. Reset with Apple ID: Click on the option to reset using your Apple ID, enter your Apple ID and password, and follow the on-screen instructions to create a new local account password.

Using macOS Recovery Mode

If you don’t have access to another admin account or Apple ID recovery, you can use macOS Recovery mode:

1. Restart in Recovery mode: Press and hold Command + R while starting up your MacBook until you see the Apple logo or hear the startup chime.
2. Open Terminal: From the Utilities menu at the top of the screen, select Terminal.
3. Reset password: Type `resetpassword` (all one word) and press Return. Close the Terminal window.
4. Follow on-screen instructions: You will be guided to select the user account and reset the password.

Creating a New Admin Account

If you have no other options, you can create a new admin account in Recovery mode by deleting the `.AppleSetupDone` file. However, this method will erase all existing user accounts and settings:

1. Restart in Recovery mode: As described above.
2. Open Terminal: From the Utilities menu, select Terminal.
3. Delete `.AppleSetupDone`: Type `rm /var/db/.AppleSetupDone` and press Return.
4. Reboot: Restart your MacBook. It will prompt you to set up the device as if it were new, allowing you to create a new admin account.

Important Considerations

- Data Security: Resetting or creating new accounts may result in losing access to saved passwords and other sensitive data stored in the Keychain.
- Privacy Risks: If you are resetting a MacBook that was previously used by someone else, ensure that all personal data is securely erased before setting it up for new use.

If none of these methods work, you may need to visit an Apple Store or authorized service provider for further assistance.