Forgotten pin on my Surface

Dominique 20 Reputation points
2026-11-04T17:47:20.45+00:00

Hello! Can someone help me to restart my Surface tablet. I have forgotten my pin, when I start the tablet they asked me to enter a code next they asked me to put my pin , but they do not give me the a option to re enter a new pin. I am locked into a "loop"

Surface | Surface Laptop | Safety and security
Answer accepted by question author
Ian-T 15,880 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
2026-11-04T23:03:49.3533333+00:00

Hi @Dominique

The code shown after several incorrect attempts is only a challenge phrase. Enter it exactly as displayed, but when Windows asks for the PIN afterward, select Sign-in options.

Choose the password/key icon and sign in using your Microsoft account password. Once signed in, open Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options > PIN (Windows Hello), select I forgot my PIN, and create a new one.

If I forgot my PIN appears directly below the PIN box, you can use that instead. This option is available for Microsoft accounts, but not local accounts.

If neither the password option nor I forgot my PIN is displayed, please confirm whether the Surface uses a Microsoft account or a local account, and which icons appear under Sign-in options.

Was this answer helpful?

3 people found this answer helpful.
0 comments

1 additional answer

Sort by: Oldest
Most helpful Newest Oldest
  1. Dominique 20 Reputation points
    2026-11-08T22:07:02.4066667+00:00

    Hi ian.

    Thank you but I do not have the password offer . But after several attempts I manage go member my pin. I am laughing again. Thank you and every one else for all your help and encouragement.

    Regard Dominique

    Was this answer helpful?

Your answer

Answers can be marked as 'Accepted' by the question author and 'Recommended' by moderators, which helps users know the answer solved the author's problem.