Unlock a PDF
Take the lock off a document you are entitled to open, so it can be edited, printed and combined normally. Only use this on files you have the right to unlock.
How to unlock a PDF
Upload the protected PDF.
Enter the password if the file needs one to open.
Download the unlocked PDF.
Frequently asked questions
Can it open a PDF without the password?
No. This removes protection from documents you can already open — it does not break encryption or guess passwords.
Does it remove printing and copying limits?
Yes. Permission restrictions are cleared along with the password.
Related tools
- Password protect a PDFEncrypt a PDF with a password using AES-256, and control whether recipients can print, copy or edit it. Free online.
- Redact a PDFPermanently delete sensitive content from a PDF — search terms, auto-detected personal data, or areas you draw. Free online.
- Merge PDF filesCombine multiple PDFs into one file in the order you choose. Free, fast, and no account needed — your files are deleted automatically.
- Compress a PDFShrink large PDFs to get under email and upload limits, while keeping text sharp and selectable. Choose a compression level. Free online.
Your files stay private
Files you upload without an account are processed and then deleted automatically — they are never added to anyone's storage and are not used to train anything. Transfers are encrypted in both directions. Create a free account if you would rather keep your documents in a private vault, or see the pricing plans for unlimited use.