Unlock a PDF
A PDF that asks for its password every time is a nuisance, and one that opens but refuses to print is worse. Enter the password once and download a copy with no password and no restrictions. This is for documents whose password you know — a bank statement, a payslip, a report you were sent. It tries the one password you give it and nothing more.
Also known as: remove PDF password · PDF password remover · decrypt PDF
Encrypted upload · deleted right after conversion
Your files are deleted automatically
Uploads are removed as soon as processing finishes, and converted files are deleted after 1 hour. Read our privacy policy.
How to unlock a PDF
Step 1
1. Add your PDF file
Drag your PDF file into the box, or choose it from your device. It can be up to 95 MB.
Step 2
2. Choose your settings
If the PDF asks for a password when you open it, type that password in. If it opens without one but will not let you print, copy or edit, leave the field empty.
Step 3
3. Press Unlock PDF
The work happens on our servers, and you can follow its progress.
Step 4
4. Download your PDF file
Your upload is already deleted, and the result is deleted after one hour.
Worth knowing
You need the password. The tool tries the one you enter, once. It does not guess, crack or recover passwords: if the password is wrong, the document stays locked and the message says so. Only unlock documents you have the right to. A PDF that opens without a password but blocks printing or copying can be unlocked with the password field left empty. The tool reads the PDF as soon as you choose it and tells you which kind it is.
Why unlock a PDF?
- Saving a bank or card statement that arrives locked with your date of birth
- Removing the password from a payslip or tax document before filing it
- Lifting print and copy restrictions from a report you have the password to
- Preparing a locked PDF for Merge, Split or Edit & Sign, which cannot open it locked
What changes
| Property | Before | After |
|---|---|---|
| Opening | Password required | Opens straight away |
| Printing and copying | May be restricted | Allowed |
| Pages and text | Original | Unchanged |
| Text | Selectable | Still selectable |
Frequently asked questions
Page updated