How to unlock PDF online
To unlock a PDF, open one or more files. Each is checked: a file with an open password gets its own password field, a file that only has printing or copying limits needs no password at all. Click Unlock PDF and a copy without a password or restrictions downloads. This works for files you have the password for; it does not crack unknown passwords.
Step by step
Three steps. Most files take a few seconds.
Step 1: Open the locked PDF
Drop one or more files. Each is checked for a password or restrictions.
Step 2: Enter the password
Type the password for each locked file. Files with only restrictions need none.
Step 3: Unlock and download
Click Unlock PDF. The unlocked copy downloads.
Why use this tool
Stop retyping passwords
Keep an unlocked copy of your own documents for everyday use.
Removes restrictions
Printing and copying limits are lifted along with the open password.
Password never kept
Neither the file nor the password is stored.
Your file is never stored
Your document is used only to produce the result you asked for. Once the download is ready and you leave the page, the file is gone. There is no copy to keep, no account that holds it, and nothing to delete later.
That makes it safe for invoices, contracts, bank statements, ID scans, medical records, and anything else you would rather keep to yourself.
Read how it worksFrequently asked questions
Can I unlock a PDF without the password?
No. This tool removes protection from files whose password you know. Encryption with an unknown password cannot be bypassed.
The file opens without a password but I cannot print. Can this help?
Yes, if you know the owner password. Enter it and the restrictions are removed. If the file has an empty user password and only an owner password you do not know, the restrictions cannot be removed.
Is it legal to unlock a PDF?
Unlocking your own documents or files you are authorised to use is fine. Do not remove protection from documents you do not have rights to.
Is it safe to use this with confidential documents?
Yes. Your file is used only to produce the result you asked for and is never stored. We do not keep copies, read the contents, or share them with anyone. Once you download the result and close the page, the file is gone.
Is this really free?
Yes. Every tool on PDF Editor Box is free to use without signing up. We may show an ad outside the work area, but we never gate features, add watermarks to your output, or limit how many files you process.