How to Bypass Touch ID on iPad [6 Methods]

Touch ID is still a favorite feature for many Apple users, even though newer iPads and iPhones come with Face ID. However, sometimes your iPad Touch ID might not working for several reasons. In this case, you'll need to enter the screen passcode to unlock it. But what if you've forgotten the passcode? How to bypass Touch ID on iPad and access Apple services again?

Don't worry! This article covers 6 methods for solving this issue, including the preconditions and limitations of each, so you can pick the best solution for your situation.

Part 1. Bypass Touch ID on iPad without Data Loss

If you haven't backed up your iPad yet, the best way to bypass Touch ID without losing data is by using iTunes. This will allow you to restore your data later, keeping everything safe. But, there are two things you need to check first, otherwise, you can check more solutions at Part 2 and further content:
◼ Your iPad must have already trusted your computer.
◼ "Find My" must be turned off on your iPad.

Here is how to bypass Touch ID on iPad without data loss via iTunes:

Step 1: Connect your iPad to your trusted computer and run iTunes. If your computer hasn't been trusted, it is necessary to unlock your iPad and tap the Trust option on the prompt.
Step 2: On the top bar, find your iPad icon and you will get into the Summary section.
Step 3: Click Back Up Now to make a backup so as to prevent losing data.
Step 4: After backing up, click Restore iPad and wait for your iPad to restart.

If your computer runs newer macOS version, here is how to proceed with Finder:

Step 1: Connect your iPad to your trusted Mac and run Finder.
Step 2: Select iPhone at the left sidebar and click General > Backups > Back up all of the data on your iPhone to this Mac.
Step 3: Click Restore iPhone and wait for Finder to unlock your iPad.

Part 2. Bypass iPad Touch ID via iPad Unlocker [Least Limitations]

If you're unable to meet the prerequisites of the previous method, don't worry! TunesKit iPhone Unlocker is a powerful tool that can bypass iPad Touch ID with minimal restrictions. Even if you've forgotten your passcode, aren't sure if "Find My" is turned off, or your computer hasn’t been trusted before, this tool can unlock all types of screen locks - Face ID, Touch ID, 4-digit passcode, and more. It's compatible with the latest iOS 17/18 and works with all iPad, iPhone, and iPod models.

In addition to bypassing Touch ID, TunesKit iPhone Unlocker can also unlock Apple ID, disable Screen Time, and bypass MDM (Mobile Device Management), all of which protect your data. However, keep in mind that unless you've backed up your data to iCloud or iTunes, bypassing Touch ID using any method will result in data loss.

Step 1 Select Unlock iOS Screen on TunesKit iPhone Unlocker

Install and run TunesKit iPhone Unlocker on your computer, and use an original USB cable to connect your iPad to the computer. On the main screen, select Unlock iOS Screen and click the Start button.

Step 2 Put iPad into DFU Mode or Recovery Mode

To enter DFU mode, follow the on-screen instructions tailored to your iPad model. If you'd prefer to use Recovery Mode instead, simply click the link at the bottom of the screen to switch to that option. Then, follow the provided guide to manually put your iPad into either DFU or Recovery Mode.

Step 3 Get the Firmware Package Downloaded and Verified

Your iPad will be detected and the device information will be shown on the interface, you can change it in case there is something wrong. If it is correct, click the Download button to get the firmware package downloaded and verified.

Step 4 Begin Bypassing iPad Touch ID without Passcode

Once the matched firmware package is verified, click the Unlock button to begin bypassing Touch ID on your iPad. Wait for a few minutes, your iPad will be unlocked without hassle.

Part 3. Bypass Touch ID on iPad with Data Loss

If you're looking for a free way to unlock your Touch ID, there are 4 alternatives still. However, these ways will result in data loss.

Method 1. Restore iPad in Recovery Mode

The first is to use iTunes to restore your iPad. Unlike the method on Part 1, this method works if your iPad hasn’t been trusted by your computer. Simply put your iPad into recovery mode, and you can restore it as well. After restoring, be aware that you may encounter an activation lock, requiring your Apple ID and password.

Step 1: Launch iTunes and plug your iPad into the computer.
Step 2: Put iPad with Touch ID into recovery mode. Simultaneously hold the Home button and the Power button for a while, and release them when the Apple logo shows up.
Step 3: A prompt will pop up on the iTunes screen. Click the Restore button on the prompt to restore your iPad.

Method 2. Erase iPad on iCloud Page

If Find My feature is enabled on your iPad, you can use iCloud to erase all data, effectively removing Touch ID on iPad without passcode. However, you'll need to have your Apple ID and password on hand to proceed. Here's how to bypass iPad Touch ID via iCloud:

Step 1: Open a browser on any device, enter icloud.com and sign in with your Apple ID.
Step 2: Click your name and look for the Find Devices link.
Step 3: From the All Devices list, select your locked iPad.
Step 4: Click on Erase iPad on the prompt and enter your password to confirm your action.

Method 3. Erase iPad on Another Device

Apart from iCloud, you can also run the Find My app on another Apple device to remove the Touch ID. The prerequisites are the same as using iCloud, so you'll need to have your Apple ID and Find My enabled.

Step 1: Run the Find My app on another Apple device that is signed in with the same Apple account.
Step 2: From the Devices tab, scroll to your iPad and tap on Erase This Device.
Step 3: Tap Continue and enter the information it requires and your iPad will get unlocked.

Method 4. Erase When iPad Is Disabled

If your iPad is disabled, and you're running iOS 15.2 or later, you'll see an Erase iPad option directly on the lock screen. This allows you to bypass Touch ID on iPad without using a computer, provided Find My is enabled, and you have an active internet connection.

Step 1: If Touch ID stops working on your iPad, you will be asked for screen passcode. Just enter the wrong passcodes until you see the Erase iPad option.
Step 2: Tap Erase iPad at the bottom right corner and enter your Apple ID password.
Step 3: Confirm to delete all data on your iPad in order to unlock iPad without Touch ID.

Part 4. Things You May Care about Requiring Touch ID on iPad/iPhone

Conclusion

Now you know how to bypass Touch ID on iPad using 6 different methods. While some of these methods result in data loss, others allow you to keep your information safe. If you want the least hassle and fastest solution, TunesKit iPhone Unlocker is the way to go. With the fewest prerequisites, it can save you time and frustration when bypassing Touch ID on your iPad or iPhone.