About Unlock PDF
Unlock PDF removes password security from a PDF you are allowed to open. Enter the current password and PDF Maker creates an unprotected copy, entirely in your browser. It does not guess or crack passwords.
How to use Unlock PDF
- Select the protected PDF.
- Enter its password, or leave the box empty if it opens without one but restricts printing or copying.
- Select Unlock PDF to download an unprotected copy.
What to check
Files that open freely but restrict printing, editing or copying are copied into a new PDF without those restrictions, keeping their text. Files that need a password to open are rebuilt from page images, so their text is no longer selectable — run the result through OCR PDF to make it searchable again.
Limitations
You must know the password. Password-to-open files lose selectable text, form fields and links in the unlocked copy. Only unlock documents you own or are authorised to modify.
Frequently asked questions
Can you remove a password I don't know?
No. The tool needs the correct password and does not attempt to crack it.
Why can't I select text after unlocking?
Files that required a password to open are rebuilt from page images. Use OCR PDF to add a searchable text layer.
Is my password sent anywhere?
No. The file and password stay in your browser.