Set the default form that appears when you open an Access database

In many Access databases, it is helpful to have the same form open automatically every time that you open the database. To set the default startup form, you specify the form in Access Options.

You can also create an AutoExec macro to perform actions when an Access database starts. For more information, see the article Create a macro that runs when you open a database.

Note: The functionality explained in this article doesn't apply to Access web apps.

Specify the default form in Access Options

This procedure assumes that you have a database open and that you have already created the form that you want to display.

1. Click the File tab, and then under Help, click Options. Note, if you're using Access 2007, click Microsoft Office Button > Access Options.

2. Click Current Database.

3. Under Application Options, in the Display Form list, select the form that you want to display when the database starts.

4. Click OK, and then close and reopen the database to display the startup form.

NOTES:

• To bypass this option and other startup options, hold down the SHIFT key while you start the database. For more information, see the article Bypass startup options when you open a database.

• By attaching macros or VBA code to the startup form's OnOpen or OnLoad event, you can specify more actions that occur every time that the database starts. For more information about how to create macros, see the article Create a macro.