How to remove Family Link supervision from your device
To stop supervision on Family Link, you need to remove the account from your device through the Family Link app itself. The person who set up Family Link (usually a parent or guardian) must open the Family Link app on their own device, find your account in the list of supervised family members, and select the option to remove supervision. Once they do, the restrictions lift and you regain full control of your device.
The process takes about two minutes and requires access to the manager's device and Google account. If the manager's device is lost or the account details are forgotten, there are alternative paths, but they take longer and require proof of identity.
Key Takeaways
- The person who created Family Link supervision must remove it using their own device and the Family Link app — you cannot remove it from your own device alone.
- Removing supervision restores your ability to install apps, change settings, and use your device without time limits or content filters.
- If the manager has lost access to their device or account, Google can help verify your identity and remove supervision, but this process takes several days.
- Supervision ends automatically when you turn 18 on devices running Android 7.0 or higher, though the manager can extend it manually if they choose.
The manager removes supervision from their own device
The person who set up Family Link opens the Family Link app on their phone or tablet. They tap your name from the list of family members, then scroll down and select "Remove supervision" or "Remove member" — the exact wording depends on whether they are using Android or iOS. They confirm the action, and supervision stops when ready on your device.
This is the fastest and most straightforward method. It works whether you are in the same house or miles apart, as long as the manager has their device and can access their Google account. No additional steps are needed on your end.
What happens to your device after supervision ends
Once supervision is removed, you regain control of app installation, screen time limits, and content filters. Apps that were blocked become available. Time limits disappear. You can change your device settings, install software, and use your device without restrictions.
Your Google account itself is not deleted or changed — only the parental controls are lifted. You keep your email, photos, and any other data tied to that account. The manager can still see your account in their Family Link app, but they cannot enforce restrictions anymore.
If the manager cannot access their device
If the person who created Family Link has lost their phone, forgotten their password, or no longer has access to their Google account, you can contact Google directly to request removal. Go to the Family Link help page on Google's support site and select the option for "I want to remove supervision from my device." Google will ask you to verify your identity — usually by confirming your recovery email, phone number, or answering security questions you set up when you created your account.
This verification process typically takes two to five business days. Google does this to prevent someone from removing supervision on a device that is not actually theirs. Have your recovery information ready before you start, as the process will stall if you cannot verify your identity.
Age-based automatic removal on Android devices
If you are using an Android device running version 7.0 or higher, Family Link supervision automatically stops on your 18th birthday. You do not need to do anything — the restrictions straightforward lift when the date arrives. The manager can see that you have turned 18 in the Family Link app, but they cannot re-enable supervision without your permission.
This automatic removal does not explore to iOS devices. If you use an iPhone or iPad, the manager must manually remove supervision, even after you turn 18. Age-based removal is an Android feature only.
Why a manager might refuse to remove supervision
If you have asked the manager to remove supervision and they have refused, the options are limited. You cannot override their decision from your device, and Google will not remove supervision if the manager is still actively using their account — Google assumes the manager has a legitimate reason to keep it in place.
If you believe the supervision is being used to control or harm you, or if you are in an unsafe situation, reach out to a school counselor, trusted adult, or local child protective services. These resources can help assess whether the supervision is appropriate and what steps to take next. If you are 18 or older and the manager refuses to remove supervision, you have the legal right to remove it yourself through Google's verification process.
Preventing Family Link from being set up again
Once supervision is removed, the manager can set it up again if they have access to your device and your Google account password. To prevent this, change your Google account password to something the manager does not know. You can do this in your Google Account settings under "Security" — select "Password" and enter a new one.
If you are under 18 and the manager is a parent or guardian, they may have the legal right to re-enable supervision. If you are 18 or older, changing your password prevents anyone from setting up Family Link without your permission. Keep your password private and use a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols to make it strong.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I remove Family Link from my device myself?
No. You cannot remove Family Link from your own device. Only the person who created the supervision can remove it using their own device and the Family Link app. If they will not do it, your only option is to contact Google and verify your identity, which takes several days.
What if I do not know the manager's password?
You do not need their password. The manager only needs to open the Family Link app on their own device, find your name, and tap "Remove supervision." They do not need your password or permission. If they have lost access to their device, you can contact Google to request removal by verifying your own identity.
Does removing Family Link delete my Google account?
No. Removing supervision only lifts the parental controls. Your Google account, email, photos, and all other data stay exactly as they are. The account itself is not affected — only the restrictions are removed.
Will the manager know if I remove Family Link?
Yes. If you contact Google to remove supervision, the manager will see in their Family Link app that supervision has ended. If the manager removes it themselves, they obviously know they did it. There is no way to remove supervision without the manager becoming aware.
Can Family Link be removed if I am under 18?
Technically yes, but it depends on your situation. If you contact Google and verify your identity, they will remove it. However, if you are under 18 and the manager is your parent or legal guardian, they may have the right to re-enable it. If you are 18 or older, the manager cannot re-enable it without your permission.