How to change your Android lock screen PIN

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

Changing your Android lock screen PIN can be accomplished through the device's settings menu. This process varies slightly depending on the Android version you are using, but generally involves navigating to the Security settings and selecting the option to change your PIN.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before changing your Android lock screen PIN, ensure you meet the following requirements:
  • •An Android device running Android 5.0 (Lollipop) or later.
  • •Access to the device with the current PIN or an alternative unlock method (like fingerprint or pattern).
  • •Sufficient battery charge to complete the process without interruption.
  • •Backup important data if you are concerned about losing access to the device.

Method 1: Changing PIN via Settings

This is the primary method for changing your lock screen PIN and is applicable to most Android devices.
  • •Step 1: Open the 'Settings' app on your device. This can usually be found in the app drawer or by swiping down the notification shade and tapping the gear icon.
  • •Step 2: Scroll down and tap on 'Security' or 'Security & location' depending on your device.
  • •Step 3: Select 'Screen lock' or 'Lock screen' and then choose 'PIN'.
  • •Step 4: Enter your current PIN to verify your identity.
  • •Step 5: Enter your new PIN and confirm it by entering it again.
  • •Step 6: You should see a confirmation message indicating that your PIN has been changed successfully.

For Android 11

Android 11 introduced a more streamlined settings interface.
  • •Step 1: Open 'Settings' and select 'Security'.
  • •Step 2: Tap on 'Screen lock', then select 'PIN'.
  • •Step 3: Follow the same steps as above to change your PIN.

For Android 10

The process is similar to Android 11 but may have slight variations in menu names.
  • •Step 1: Open 'Settings' and navigate to 'Security'.
  • •Step 2: Tap on 'Screen lock', then select 'PIN'.
  • •Step 3: Follow the same steps as above to change your PIN.

Method 2: Using Google Find My Device

If you are unable to access your device normally, you can change your lock screen PIN using Google's Find My Device service.
  • •Step 1: Go to the Find My Device website (https://www.google.com/android/find) on a computer or another device.
  • •Step 2: Log in with the Google account associated with your locked device.
  • •Step 3: Select your device from the list of devices.
  • •Step 4: Click on 'Secure Device' which will allow you to set a new lock screen PIN.
  • •Step 5: Follow the prompts to set a new PIN, which will override the existing one.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while changing your lock screen PIN, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Incorrect PIN' - Solution: Ensure you are entering the correct current PIN. If forgotten, consider using the 'Forgot PIN' option if available.
  • •Issue: 'Screen lock settings not accessible' - Fix: Ensure you are logged into the device as an administrator or owner.
  • •Problem: 'Device locked after too many attempts' - Workaround: Wait for 30 seconds and try again, or use Google Find My Device to reset.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users, here are some tips to enhance your experience:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: N/A - Android does not have specific keyboard shortcuts for this task.
  • •Command line: N/A - Android does not support command line for changing PIN.
  • •Hidden feature: Use biometric unlock (fingerprint or face recognition) for quicker access.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Regularly updating your lock screen PIN enhances security and reduces the risk of unauthorized access.