How to Change Age on TikTok: Simple & Essential Guide

Your TikTok age determines what content you can access and create. Whether you entered the wrong birthdate during signup or need to update your information, learning how to change age on TikTok is straightforward. This guide walks you through every method available, from mobile apps to desktop browsers, ensuring your profile reflects accurate information.

Tools & Materials Needed

• TikTok app (iOS or Android) or web browser
• Active TikTok account with login credentials
• Valid birthdate information
• Smartphone or computer with internet connection
• Optional: Email address associated with account

How to Change Age on TikTok (Mobile)

The mobile app offers the most convenient way to update your age. How to change age on TikTok using your smartphone takes just a few minutes and requires no special permissions. This method works identically on both iOS and Android devices, making it the universal solution for most users.

1. Open TikTok and tap the Profile icon (person silhouette) in the bottom-right corner
2. Tap the three-line menu (hamburger icon) in the top-right corner of your profile
3. Select “Settings and Privacy” from the dropdown menu
4. Tap “Account” to access account settings
5. Choose “Personal Information” from the list
6. Tap your current birthdate to open the date picker
7. Adjust the date using the scroll wheels for month, day, and year
8. Confirm your new age by tapping “Save” or “Done”

Once you’ve completed these steps, your age updates immediately across your account. TikTok may require you to verify your identity if you’re making significant changes. If you’re changing from a minor to adult account or vice versa, expect content restrictions to adjust within 24 hours.

According to WikiHow’s comprehensive guides on social media management, updating personal information regularly helps maintain account security and ensures appropriate content recommendations. The process is intentionally simple to encourage users to keep their profiles accurate.

How to Change Age on TikTok Desktop

If you prefer using a computer, how to change age on TikTok works through the web browser as well. This method is ideal for users who want a larger screen or need to manage multiple accounts. Desktop access provides the same functionality with a slightly different navigation path.

1. Visit settings.tiktok.com in your web browser
2. Log in with your TikTok credentials if not already signed in
3. Click “Account” in the left sidebar
4. Select “Personal Information” from the menu options
5. Click on the birthdate field to reveal the date picker
6. Enter your new date of birth using the calendar interface
7. Click “Save” to confirm changes

The desktop version provides identical functionality to the mobile app, with the advantage of keyboard navigation. Some users find the calendar interface easier to use on larger screens when selecting dates far in the past. Changes save automatically and sync across all your devices within minutes.

As noted by Instructables’ tech community, desktop platforms often provide clearer visibility of settings and confirmation dialogs, reducing the chance of accidental changes. This makes the web method preferable for users updating sensitive information.

Understanding TikTok Age Restrictions

TikTok enforces different rules based on user age, which is why knowing how to change age on TikTok matters beyond simple preference. Users under 13 cannot create accounts at all, while those aged 13-17 face significant content and feature restrictions. Understanding these boundaries helps you maintain compliance with platform policies.

Age-based restrictions include:

• Under 13: Account creation prohibited; parental consent required in some regions
• 13-17: Limited direct messaging, restricted live streaming, reduced discoverability
• 18+: Full access to all features, including monetization programs and mature content

When you update your age, these restrictions adjust automatically. If you change from an adult to minor account, TikTok disables certain features immediately. The algorithm also recalibrates content recommendations within 24 hours to match your new age group’s guidelines. This automatic adjustment protects younger users from inappropriate content while expanding opportunities for adult creators.

TikTok’s age verification system uses your birthdate to determine eligibility for features like TikTok Creator Fund, which requires users to be at least 18. If you’re planning to monetize your content, ensure your age is accurate before applying for these programs.

Why You Might Need to Change Your Age

Understanding when to change your age helps maintain an accurate profile. How to change age on TikTok becomes necessary in several legitimate scenarios. The most common reason is correcting a typo made during initial account creation, especially if you entered the wrong year or month.

Common reasons to update your age include:

• Correcting a data entry error from account signup
• Celebrating your actual birthday and wanting your profile to reflect the correct year
• Transitioning from a minor to adult account to access creator monetization
• Updating after significant life changes
• Ensuring content recommendations match your actual age group

If you’re a parent managing a teen’s account, updating their age ensures they receive age-appropriate content and safety features. Many parents create accounts for young teens and need to adjust the birthdate to match their child’s actual age. TikTok’s one-change-per-year policy encourages careful consideration before updating, ensuring users don’t make frivolous changes.

For creators planning to apply for monetization programs, accurate age information is essential. TikTok requires proof of age for creator fund applications, and mismatched information can result in account suspension. Taking time to verify your details now prevents complications later.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Most users update their age without problems, but occasional issues arise. If you’re having trouble with how to change age on TikTok, these solutions address the most common obstacles. Technical glitches are rare but easily resolved with basic troubleshooting steps.

Problem: “Save” button won’t respond

If the save button appears unresponsive, try closing and reopening the app. Clear your app cache by following steps in our guide on how to clear app cache on iPhone, which applies to TikTok’s temporary files. Log out completely and sign back in to refresh your session. If using desktop, try a different browser or clear your browser cache.

Problem: Age change won’t save or reverts

This usually indicates a connection issue. Ensure you have stable internet connectivity before attempting changes. Wait 24 hours, as TikTok sometimes needs time to process updates across servers. If it still doesn’t work, contact TikTok support through the app’s Help Center.

Problem: “You can only change your age once per year” message

TikTok restricts age changes to once yearly for security purposes. If you’ve already changed your age recently, you’ll need to wait until the anniversary of your last change. Make note of when you changed it so you know when you’re eligible again.

Problem: Features disappeared after age change

If you changed from an adult to minor account, restricted features are expected. If you changed to adult and still see restrictions, wait 24-48 hours for the system to update. Log out and back in to force a refresh. As detailed in our guide on how to unhide apps on iPhone, sometimes hidden settings require a full app refresh.

Privacy & Security Considerations

Your birthdate is sensitive personal information, so protecting it matters when learning how to change age on TikTok. TikTok encrypts this data, but you should still follow security best practices. Never share your birthdate with other users or third-party apps claiming to help with account management.

Security tips when updating your age:

• Use a secure, private internet connection (avoid public WiFi)
• Ensure two-factor authentication is enabled on your account
• Don’t share your birthdate in comments, messages, or videos
• Verify you’re on the official TikTok app or settings.tiktok.com
• Review your account’s connected apps and revoke access to unused services

If you share your device with family members, ensure your account is password-protected. Similar to managing Instagram privacy settings as covered in our guide on how to turn off active status on Instagram, controlling who sees your personal information is essential. Consider making your account private if you’re concerned about data exposure.

TikTok’s privacy policy outlines how they use birthdate information. They use it to enforce age restrictions, customize content, and comply with legal requirements. Your age is never shared with third parties without your explicit consent, and you can request data deletion through your account settings.

As emphasized by Consumer Reports’ digital privacy resources, regularly auditing your social media settings helps protect personal information. Set a quarterly reminder to review which apps have access to your TikTok account and what permissions you’ve granted.

Alternative Solutions & Account Recovery

If you can’t access your account to change your age, recovery options exist. Account lockouts sometimes prevent age updates, requiring you to regain access first. TikTok provides multiple recovery methods depending on your situation.

If you forgot your password: Use the “Forgot password?” link on the login screen. TikTok sends a reset link to your email address. Follow the link to create a new password, then proceed with how to change age on TikTok normally.

If your account is suspended: Check your email for details about the suspension. Most suspensions are temporary and lift within 24 hours. Once reinstated, you can update your age. If the suspension is permanent, you’ll need to create a new account.

If you can’t verify your identity: TikTok may require identity verification for major account changes. Provide a government-issued ID photo through the app’s support form. This process typically takes 3-5 business days.

For additional account management guidance, Lifehacker’s tech support section offers comprehensive troubleshooting for social media platforms. They provide step-by-step recovery procedures that complement TikTok’s official support.

FAQ

Can I change my TikTok age multiple times?

No, TikTok limits age changes to once per year. After changing your age, you must wait 12 months before making another change. This policy prevents misuse and protects younger users from circumventing age restrictions.

Will changing my age delete my videos or followers?

Changing your age doesn’t delete content or remove followers. However, your videos’ visibility may change if you transition between age groups. Videos marked for mature audiences might become hidden if you change to a minor account.

How long does an age change take to process?

Age updates take effect immediately in your settings, but content restrictions adjust within 24 hours. Some features may take up to 48 hours to fully update across all TikTok servers.

What if TikTok says I’m too young for my account?

If your age is under 13, TikTok will restrict your account or request deletion. You must be at least 13 to maintain an active account. Update your birthdate to 13 or older, or delete the account if you’re younger.

Can I change my age if I’m under 18?

Yes, users of any age can change their birthdate once per year. However, minors face content restrictions regardless of what age they claim. These restrictions exist for legal compliance and cannot be bypassed.

Do I need to verify my identity to change my age?

For most age changes, no verification is required. However, if you’re making a large jump in age (like from 16 to 40), TikTok may request identity verification. Provide a government ID through the app’s support form.

What happens if I lie about my age on TikTok?

Providing false information violates TikTok’s terms of service. If detected, your account may be suspended or permanently banned. TikTok uses various methods to detect age fraud, including cross-referencing with connected accounts and payment information.

Can parents change their child’s age on TikTok?

Parents can only change their child’s age if they have account access. If you created the account for your child, you have permission to update it. If your child created the account, they must approve the change or you need their password.

Is my birthdate visible to other TikTok users?

No, your birthdate is private and never displayed on your profile. Only you and TikTok staff can see this information. Your age appears only as a restriction level, not as a specific date.

What if I need to change my age more than once per year?

Contact TikTok support and explain your situation. They may grant exceptions for genuine errors or extenuating circumstances. Use the Help Center in the app to submit a request with details about why you need an exception.