Yes, iPhone screens can be replaced, and you have three main routes

Your iPhone screen can be replaced by Apple, by an authorized repair provider, or by an independent repair shop. Apple will replace it at an Apple Store or through mail-in service. Authorized providers — usually carriers like Verizon or AT&T, or retailers like Best Buy — can also do the work. Independent shops exist in most towns and cities. The choice depends on cost, speed, warranty coverage, and whether you want to keep your phone's water resistance intact.

The screen itself is repairable on every iPhone model currently sold. Older models are often cheaper to repair because the parts cost less. Newer iPhones with advanced displays (like the Dynamic Island or ProMotion) cost more to replace because the parts are more expensive.

Key Takeaways

  • Apple charges between $200 and $400 for screen replacement depending on your iPhone model, but the price is the same whether you go to a store or use mail-in service.
  • Authorized repair providers like Best Buy or your carrier often charge less than Apple and may have faster turnaround times.
  • Independent repair shops typically charge the least but may not offer the same warranty or use genuine Apple parts.
  • AppleCare+ covers screen replacement for a $29 service fee if you have the plan, making it the cheapest option if you enrolled before damage occurred.
  • Mail-in repair through Apple takes 5 to 7 business days, while in-store service is usually same-day or next-day.

What Apple charges for screen replacement

Apple's pricing depends on your iPhone model. An iPhone 15 or 15 Pro screen costs $299 to $329. An iPhone 14 costs $279 to $329. Older models like the iPhone 13 or 12 cost $199 to $279. These prices are fixed — Apple charges the same amount whether you visit a store or use their mail-in service.

If you have AppleCare+, the cost drops to $29 per screen replacement. AppleCare+ costs between $3 and $17 per month depending on your model and must be purchased within 60 days of buying your phone. If you already have AppleCare+ and your screen breaks, you pay only the $29 service fee.

Apple's warranty does not cover accidental damage like drops or cracks. The standard one-year limited warranty covers defects in materials or workmanship, which means a screen that fails on its own — not from impact — may be replaced free. If you cracked it, you pay the full price unless you have AppleCare+.

How to get your screen replaced at Apple

You can visit an Apple Store in person or send your phone to Apple by mail. For in-store service, go to apple.com, click "Find a Store," enter your location, and book a Genius Bar appointment. Walk-ins are sometimes possible but appointments are faster. Bring your phone and your ID. The repair usually takes a few hours, though busy stores may take longer.

For mail-in service, go to apple.com/support, select your device, choose "Screen Damage," and follow the prompts to start a repair. Apple will email you a prepaid shipping label. Pack your phone carefully and drop it at any carrier store or shipping location. Apple receives it, repairs it, and ships it back — the whole process takes 5 to 7 business days. You can track your phone's status online.

Apple's repair includes a new screen and a new battery if the battery health has dropped below 80 percent. The screen comes with a one-year limited warranty covering defects, not new damage.

Authorized repair providers and what they charge

Authorized Apple repair providers include Best Buy, your wireless carrier (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, etc.), and some independent shops that have Apple's authorization. These providers charge less than Apple in many cases. Best Buy typically charges $150 to $250 for screen replacement depending on the model. Carrier stores vary — some match Apple's price, others undercut it by $50 to $100.

The advantage of authorized providers is speed. Many can do the repair same-day or next-day, especially for common models. They also use genuine Apple parts and offer the same warranty as Apple does. You can find authorized providers near you by visiting apple.com/support and selecting "Find Locations."

Call ahead before you go. Some locations require an appointment, and parts availability varies by location and model. Newer iPhones sometimes have longer wait times because the parts are in higher demand.

Independent repair shops and what to expect

Independent repair shops — the non-Apple-authorized businesses in your area — typically charge $100 to $200 for screen replacement. They are usually faster than Apple (often same-day) and cheaper. The trade-off is that they may not use genuine Apple parts, and their warranty is usually shorter (30 to 90 days instead of one year).

Some independent shops use high-quality third-party screens that work well. Others use lower-quality parts that may have color issues, touch sensitivity problems, or fail sooner. There is no way to know without asking. Before you hand over your phone, ask whether they use genuine Apple parts or third-party parts, and ask what warranty they offer.

Independent shops also cannot may provide that your phone's water resistance will be the same after repair. Apple uses special adhesives and seals when reassembling the phone. Independent shops may not have access to the exact same materials, so water resistance may be reduced. If water resistance matters to you, stick with Apple or an authorized provider.

Timing: how long each option takes

In-store service at Apple or an authorized provider is fastest. Many locations can do the repair same-day if you arrive early, though you may wait several hours. Some busy stores or locations without parts in stock may take until the next day. Call ahead to ask about wait time.

Mail-in service through Apple takes 5 to 7 business days from the moment Apple receives your phone. Add 2 to 3 days for shipping to Apple and 2 to 3 days for return shipping. Total time is usually 9 to 13 days.

Independent shops often promise same-day or next-day service because they stock common parts and do not need to order them. This speed is one reason people choose them, especially if they need their phone urgently.

What to do before you take your phone in

Back up your data. Use iCloud or a computer to save your photos, messages, and settings. Repair shops do not erase your phone during a screen replacement, but backing up protects you in case something goes wrong.

Bring your ID and proof of purchase if you have it. Apple and authorized providers may ask for it, especially if you are claiming warranty coverage or using AppleCare+. Independent shops usually do not ask, but having it does not hurt.

If your phone is still under warranty or you have AppleCare+, mention it when you arrive. This affects the price you pay. If you are unsure whether you have AppleCare+, go to Settings > General > About and scroll down — it will say "AppleCare+" if you have it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Apple replace screens the same day?

Many Apple Stores can do it same-day if you book an appointment early in the day and the store has the part in stock. Busy locations or stores without the part may take until the next day. Call your local store or check the appointment system online to see what times are available.

Will my phone lose water resistance after a screen replacement?

Apple and authorized providers use proper seals and adhesives, so water resistance should remain the same. Independent shops may not have access to the exact same materials, so water resistance could be reduced. If water resistance is important to you, choose Apple or an authorized provider.

Can I replace the screen myself?

You can buy a replacement screen and tools online, but it is difficult and risky. You may damage the phone further, void any remaining warranty, and lose water resistance. Unless you have experience with phone repair, it is safer and often cheaper to use a repair shop.

What if my screen breaks again after repair?

If it breaks within the warranty period (one year for Apple, 30 to 90 days for independent shops), contact the shop that did the repair. They should replace it free or at a reduced cost. If it breaks after the warranty expires, you pay for a new repair.

Is there a difference between a genuine Apple screen and a third-party screen?

Genuine Apple screens are made by the same manufacturer Apple uses in new phones. Third-party screens work but may have color accuracy issues, slower touch response, or shorter lifespan. They are cheaper, which is why independent shops use them. If you want the exact same quality as a new phone, choose a genuine Apple screen.