Using the Device Passcode Feature on a Garmin Watch

Garmin watches that support the Device Passcode feature can set up a personalized pin code for additional enhanced privacy and data security. With this feature enabled, you can create a personalized 4-digit pin for an extra layer of protection to help safeguard your personal data when the watch is not on your wrist.

The passcode is required each time when the watch is detected off of the wrist, or after an extended period of time has passed since you last entered it. This is typically around once a week but may change depending on your device use. If the watch is not properly fitted on your wrist it may detect that it is off the wrist even if you wear it all day. For proper fit guidelines please see: Garmin Watch Optical Heart Rate Accuracy Tips.

What Can Be Accessed if the Garmin Device Is Locked?

• An active activity

• Assistance alert

• Watch face

• Answering a phone call

• Flashlight

• And other select features 

  NOTE: Some personal health related data fields may be blocked and the passcode must be entered to view them.

Setting Up, Changing, or Turning Off a Passcode

The steps for setting up, changing, or turning off the Passcode feature can vary by model. For specific instructions, search for “Watch Passcode” in your owner's manual. 

What Happens if I Enter the Wrong Passcode?

If you have entered an incorrect passcode the watch will vibrate and clear out the entered code. After 3 failed passcode attempts, you will see a notification with a 60-second countdown and note that you have 2 attempts remaining. After the next failed attempt, you will have to wait 15 minutes before trying your last attempt.

After failing a passcode attempt, you can reset or change the passcode with the Garmin Connect app . If you enter the passcode incorrectly 5 times and the watch is not paired to your phone, the watch will delete data, including added payment cards, and reset to factory settings.

What If I Forget My Passcode?

If you have forgotten your passcode, or if you enter the passcode incorrectly 5 times, you will need to open the Garmin Connect™ app on your paired, compatible smartphone to reset the passcode.

Resetting The Passcode With the Garmin Connect App

You can use the Garmin Connect app to reset the passcode if you have been locked out.

1. Open the Garmin Connect app.

2. Touch the “Incorrect Passcode” banner.

3. Select Reset Passcode.

4. Select Reset.

The reset may take a short time to process. Once completed, your device passcode is now removed. You can set up a new passcode through your device settings in the Garmin Connect app, or on the watch .

Compatible Watches

Current support requires the Beta Software for the below products and the latest version of the Garmin Connect App.

• Enduro™ 3

• fēnix® E

• fēnix® 8 - AMOLED Edition | fēnix® 8 - Solar Edition

• Forerunner® 165 | Forerunner® 165 Music

• Forerunner® 255 | Forerunner® 255S | Forerunner® 255 Music | Forerunner® 255S Music

• Forerunner® 265 | Forerunner® 265S

• Forerunner® 955 | Forerunner® 955 Solar

• Forerunner® 965

• Venu® 3 | Venu® 3S

• vívoactive® 5