How to Create a WordPress Admin User via functions.php or Database

If you’re locked out of your WordPress admin or need to create a new administrator account manually, there are two reliable methods: using functions.php or directly via the database.

This guide covers both approaches step by step.

Method 1: Create Admin User via functions.php

This is the easiest method if you have access to your theme files.

Steps:

  • Open your active theme’s functions.php file
  • Add the following code (update credentials before saving)
function create_new_admin_account() {
    $username = 'newadmin';
    $password = 'StrongPassword123!';
    $email = 'youremail@example.com';

    if ( !username_exists($username) && !email_exists($email) ) {
        $user_id = wp_create_user($username, $password, $email);
        $user = new WP_User($user_id);
        $user->set_role('administrator');
    }
}
add_action('init', 'create_new_admin_account');

Important:

  • Visit your website once after adding the code
  • The admin user will be created automatically
  • Remove the code immediately after execution to prevent security risks

Method 2: Create Admin User via Database

Use this method if you don’t have access to WordPress files but can access the database (via phpMyAdmin).

Step 1: Insert User

INSERT INTO wp_users 
(user_login, user_pass, user_nicename, user_email, user_status, display_name)
VALUES 
('newadmin', MD5('StrongPassword123!'), 'newadmin', 'youremail@example.com', 0, 'newadmin');

Step 2: Get User ID

After inserting, note the ID of the new user (e.g., 7).

Step 3: Assign Administrator Role

INSERT INTO wp_usermeta (user_id, meta_key, meta_value) 
VALUES (7, 'wp_capabilities', 'a:1:{s:13:"administrator";b:1;}');

INSERT INTO wp_usermeta (user_id, meta_key, meta_value) 
VALUES (7, 'wp_user_level', '10');

Note: Replace 7 with your actual user ID and update the table prefix if it’s not wp_.

Conclusion

Both methods are effective for regaining admin access:

  • functions.php: Quick and easy if you have file access
  • Database method: Useful when locked out completely

Security Tip: After creating the admin account, always:

  • Remove any temporary code
  • Use a strong password
  • Delete unused or suspicious users

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