How to add a user account on a Mac

2 min read · 5 steps · Updated 2 October 2026

A separate account gives another person their own desktop, files, browser history and settings. Your files stay private from them.

Step by step

1. Open System Settings and click Users & Groups

   Click the Apple menu and choose System Settings.

   Done

2. Click Add User

   Enter your own password to allow the change.

   Done

3. Choose the account type

   Standard is right for most people: they can use apps and change their own settings. Administrator can also install software and change settings for everyone. Give that only to someone you trust with the whole Mac.

   Done

4. Fill in name and password

   Type the full name; the account name is filled in for you. Set a password and a hint, and click Create User.

   Done

5. Switch between users

   Click the Apple menu and choose Log Out, or turn on fast user switching in System Settings, Control Centre or Menu Bar, to change users from the menu bar without closing your apps.

   Done

Good to know

For a visitor who needs the Mac briefly, use the Guest User instead: click the i next to Guest User and allow guests to log in. Their files are deleted when they log out.

For a child, create a Standard account, then set limits under System Settings, Screen Time.

To remove an account, click the i next to it and choose Delete User. You are asked whether to keep or delete their files.

In short: System Settings, Users & Groups, Add User.