How to set screen time limits on Mac

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting for setting screen time limits on Mac.

7-10 min read

Expert Verified

Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To set screen time limits on a Mac, you can use the built-in Screen Time feature available in macOS Catalina (10.15) and later. This feature allows you to monitor and limit the time spent on applications and websites, helping to promote healthier usage habits.

Beginner/Intermediate⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before setting screen time limits on your Mac, ensure you meet the following requirements.

•macOS Catalina (10.15) or later is required.
•Administrator access to the Mac is necessary to configure Screen Time settings.
•Ensure your Mac is updated to the latest version of macOS for optimal performance.
•Consider backing up important data using Time Machine or another backup solution before making system changes.

Method 1: Using System Preferences

This method is the primary way to set screen time limits directly through the macOS interface.

•Step 1: Click on the Apple menu () in the top-left corner of your screen and select 'System Preferences'.
•Step 2: In the System Preferences window, click on 'Screen Time'.
•Step 3: If prompted, enter your administrator password to access Screen Time settings.
•Step 4: Select 'App Limits' from the left sidebar, then click the '+' button to add a new limit.
•Step 5: Choose the apps or categories you want to limit, set the desired time limit, and click 'Add'.
•Step 6: To verify, check the 'App Limits' section to see your newly added limits.
•Step 7: If it doesn't work, ensure that Screen Time is enabled and that you have the correct permissions.

For macOS Monterey (12) and later

In macOS Monterey and later, the interface has minor updates for better usability.

•Step 1: Follow the same initial steps to access 'Screen Time'.
•Step 2: The interface may include additional options for 'Focus' which can also help manage screen time.
•Step 3: Use the 'Focus' feature to limit notifications during specific times.

For macOS Big Sur (11) and earlier

In earlier versions like Big Sur, the layout may differ slightly.

•Step 1: Access 'Screen Time' as described above.
•Step 2: The 'App Limits' section may not have as many customization options as in later versions.

Method 2: Using Terminal Commands

For advanced users, setting screen time limits can also be accomplished using Terminal commands.

•Step 1: Open 'Terminal' from Applications > Utilities.
•Step 2: Use the command 'defaults write com.apple.ScreenTime Agent -dict-add AppLimits -array '<app_identifier>' '<time_limit>'', replacing '<app_identifier>' with the app's bundle identifier and '<time_limit>' with the desired limit in minutes.
•Step 3: Press 'Enter' to execute the command.
•Step 4: To verify, check the Screen Time settings in System Preferences.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while setting screen time limits, consider the following solutions.

•Error: 'Screen Time is not available' - Solution: Ensure your macOS version is Catalina (10.15) or later and that you have administrator access.
•Issue: 'Limits not applying' - Fix: Double-check that Screen Time is enabled and that the limits are correctly set in the App Limits section.
•Problem: 'Cannot access Screen Time settings' - Workaround: Restart your Mac and try again, or check for macOS updates.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your experience with these power user tips and shortcuts.

•Keyboard shortcut: Command + Space - Opens Spotlight for quick access to applications.
•Command line: 'killall -HUP cfprefsd' - Refreshes preferences if changes do not appear immediately.
•Hidden feature: 'Downtime' - Set specific times when only allowed apps are accessible, promoting focused usage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best results in managing screen time, combine app limits with downtime settings to create a balanced approach to device usage.