How to set up Face ID on iPad

Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
iPadOS 18.4 - iPad Pro M4
You will need
iPad Pro or iPad Air with Face ID hardware

Step by step

  1. 30 sec

    Open Face ID & Passcode settings

    Launch the Settings app from your Home Screen. Navigate to the left sidebar, tap Face ID & Passcode, and enter your current device passcode when prompted.

    Note: If you do not have a passcode set, you will be required to create one before enabling Face ID.
  2. 1 min

    Start the face enrollment process

    Tap Set Up Face ID within the menu. Hold your iPad in portrait or landscape orientation, ensuring your face is positioned within the camera frame displayed on the screen.

    Note: Face ID works in both portrait and landscape orientations on compatible iPad models.
  3. 1 min

    Complete the initial facial scan

    Follow the on-screen instructions by moving your head slowly in a circle to capture all angles of your face. Ensure the TrueDepth camera system maintains a clear view of your features throughout the scan.

  4. 30 sec

    Finish the scan and verify

    Once the first scan concludes, tap Continue to perform the second, final facial scan. Repeat the head-movement gesture until the progress bar reaches completion, then tap Done.

  5. 1 min

    Configure Face ID usage preferences

    Review the Use Face ID For section within the Face ID & Passcode menu. Toggle the switches for iPad Unlock, iTunes & App Store, Wallet & Apple Pay, and Password Autofill to suit your security preferences.

    Note: Enabling Attention Awareness requires the camera to verify you are looking at the screen before unlocking.