If you’re asked to confirm that you’re an adult

When creating a new Apple Account or using Apple services, you may see a prompt to confirm that you’re an adult. This is required by law in some countries and regions.

In certain countries and regions, you may be required to confirm that you’re an adult before downloading apps, changing certain settings or taking other actions with your Apple Account.

Find out more about the country and region-specific age requirements for managing an Apple Account

How to confirm that you’re an adult

Depending on your country or region, you may be asked to confirm that you’re an adult when you create a new Apple Account, update the software on your device, try to change certain safety settings, or try to download or purchase apps with an age rating of 18+.

Different options may be available to confirm that you’re an adult:

• Existing Apple Account information — Apple may ask to look at information associated with your account, including whether you have a credit card on file or how long you’ve had an Apple Account to help confirm that you’re an adult.

• Use a credit card — You can add a credit card that belongs to you to your Apple Account to confirm that you’re an adult. If you use a credit card, you have the option to add it as a payment method for your Apple Account. Debit cards aren’t eligible.

• Scan your ID — You can scan your passport (available in the UK)*, driver’s licence or government-issued ID to confirm that you’re an adult. To help scan your ID successfully, make sure that you’re in a well-lit place (indoors works best). Place your ID against a neutral background and avoid glare. Make sure the image of your ID is clear and in focus before submitting.

To confirm you’re an adult, Apple may use details such as information related to your Apple Account, a credit card on file, or your passport, driver’s licence or government-issued ID. Your credit card or ID isn’t stored unless you choose to save it for other purposes, such as adding a payment method to your account.

If you choose not to confirm your age

• If you decide not to confirm your age when prompted, you can continue to use your device — but you need to confirm before you can turn off certain safety settings or download apps that are rated 18+.

• To confirm later, you may see a message in the Settings app where you can choose to confirm, or you may be prompted to confirm the next time you take that action (such as when trying to download an app with an age rating of 18+).

If you can’t confirm on your device

If you can’t confirm that you’re an adult on your device:

• Update your software: Make sure your device has the latest software version.

• Use a supported method: You can use your passport (available in the UK), driver’s licence or government-issued ID, or a credit card that belongs to you to confirm that you’re an adult. Debit cards and gift cards aren’t supported.

• Try a different device: Some confirmation methods are available only on iPhone and iPad. If you’re using a Mac, Apple Watch, Apple TV or Apple Vision Pro, try confirming on your iPhone or iPad.

If you’re not an adult

Depending on where you live, you may be required to connect to a Family Sharing group with an adult who has confirmed their age to take certain actions on your Apple Account — such as downloading apps or changing certain safety settings. In some cases, certain actions may not be available until you turn 18.

Find out how to connect to a Family Sharing group