Anyone setting up a new iPad might see a message saying “Waiting for approval.” This can be confusing, especially if it appears without clear instructions. To approve your iPad, go to the settings on your iPhone or another device that’s signed in to your Apple ID.
If you don’t see an approval request, you might need to get a verification code. Go to Settings on your iPhone, tap on your name, then Password & Security, and finally Get Verification Code. Enter this code on your new iPad.
It’s important to understand that this process is part of Apple’s security features. It helps keep your data safe by ensuring only trusted devices are linked to your account. Once your iPad is approved, you can start using it with your Apple ID.
Why Does “Approve This iPad” Appear?
This message shows up when:
- You signed in with your Apple ID on a new or reset iPad
- Two‑Factor Authentication (2FA) is enabled
- Apple needs to confirm it’s really you
Apple will send a notification or verification code to one of your trusted devices (like your iPhone or Mac).
✅ Method 1: Approve Using Another Apple Device (Fastest Way)
If you have another Apple device signed in to the same Apple ID:
Step 1:
Unlock your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
Step 2:
Look for a pop-up that says:
“Apple ID Sign-In Request”
Step 3:
Tap Allow
Step 4:
Enter the 6-digit verification code shown on that device into your iPad.
✅ Your iPad will now be approved.
✅ Method 2: Manually Get a Verification Code
If you didn’t receive a pop-up notification:
On iPhone or iPad:
- Open Settings
- Tap your Apple ID name at the top
- Tap Sign-In & Security
- Tap Two-Factor Authentication
- Tap Get Verification Code
- Enter the code on your iPad
On Mac:
- Open System Settings
- Click your Apple ID
- Click Sign-In & Security
- Click Two-Factor Authentication
- Select Get Verification Code
Enter that code on the iPad.
✅ Method 3: Use a Trusted Phone Number
If you don’t have access to another Apple device:
- On the iPad, tap “Didn’t get a code?”
- Choose Text Message or Phone Call
- Enter the verification code sent to your trusted number
✅ Method 4: Fix “Waiting for Approval” That Won’t Go Away
If your iPad is stuck on “Waiting for Approval”:
Try these steps:
✔ Make sure both devices are connected to Wi‑Fi
✔ Restart the iPad
✔ Restart your other Apple device
✔ Sign out and back into Apple ID (Settings → Apple ID → Sign Out)
If that doesn’t work:
- Go to Settings
- Tap your Apple ID
- Scroll down and remove the new iPad from your account
- Restart and sign in again
When You May Need Account Recovery
If you:
- Don’t have access to trusted devices
- Don’t have access to your trusted phone number
You may need to start Apple ID Account Recovery:
Go to:
👉 https://iforgot.apple.com
Follow the instructions to verify your identity.
Note: Account recovery can take several days.
Why Apple Uses This System
The approval process protects you from:
- Unauthorized account access
- Identity theft
- Hackers signing into your Apple ID
Even though it can feel inconvenient, it’s an important security feature.
Quick Fix Summary
| Situation | What To Do |
|---|---|
| Have another Apple device | Approve sign-in notification |
| No notification received | Manually get verification code |
| No device available | Use trusted phone number |
| Still stuck | Restart devices or sign out/in |
| No access at all | Start account recovery |
Key Takeaways
- To approve your iPad, check Settings on your other Apple devices.
- Use a verification code if you don’t see an approval screen.
- This process keeps your Apple devices secure.
Understanding the Approval Process for Apple Devices
To use a new Apple device, you need to approve it from an existing device. This step helps secure your data and manage access to your account.
The Role of iCloud Keychain in Approval
iCloud Keychain stores and encrypts passwords on your devices. When you sign in on a new device, iCloud Keychain ensures it is really you. Approval requires authentication, like entering a passcode. iCloud encrypts the data, so no one else can read it. During setup, entering the correct passcode on an existing device will sync the Keychain passwords. This keeps your data safe and lets you start using the new device.
Navigating Approval Notifications on iOS
When setting up a new iPad, you might see a “Waiting for Approval” message. This means that the device needs permission to access your account. A notification appears on other devices logged into the same Apple ID. Tap the notification and follow prompts to approve the new device. Enter any required verification codes. If no notification appears, you can go to Settings on another device and generate a verification code manually.
Why Your iPad May Wait for Approval
Your iPad might hang on “Waiting for Approval” if there’s a connection issue or if the verification code isn’t entered quickly. Ensure your devices are connected to the internet. Check for any pending updates and install them. Double-check if the correct Apple ID is in use. If necessary, restart both devices or visit Apple Support. These steps can help resolve any issues that cause delays in the approval process.
