Unlock PDF Files the Easy Way

How To Unlock a PDF

Smallpdf’s Unlock PDF tool lets you quickly remove the password from your PDF, so you don’t have to type it every time you open, edit, or send the document:

1. Go to the Unlock PDF tool.
2. Drag and drop your encrypted PDF into the toolbox.
3. Enter the correct password.
4. Click “Unlock” and download the password-free version.

That’s it. Your file is now open and ready to use, with no password required next time you need to work on it. And when you’re finished working with it? You can relock it just as easily using the Protect PDF tool.

This comes in handy for documents you use frequently, like invoices, contracts, or reports. You can even send the unlocked version to colleagues or clients without needing to share the password.

What About PDFs With Editing or Printing Restrictions?

Some files let you open them but block you from printing, copying text, or filling in forms. These are known as permission restrictions, and they’re just as frustrating as a forgotten password.

Luckily, Smallpdf can help there, too. If you're able to open the file, the Unlock PDF tool can usually unprotect PDF permissions and unlock secured PDFs for editing or printing. But only if you know the password. Once that’s done, you can annotate, fill, or print the file just like any other.

There’s a Desktop Option if You’d Rather Not Upload

If you’re not keen on uploading your file, no matter how secure the site is, we totally get it.

For times like that, there’s the Smallpdf Desktop App for Windows. It works completely offline once installed, and unlocking a file is just as easy.

Open the app, click “Unlock,” drop in your file, type in your password, and hit the button. That’s it. You can even unlock a whole bunch of files at once, and the app will save your new versions in the same folder so you’re not hunting around for them later.

If you’re not a Pro user, no stress. You can try it out for free with a 7-day trial.

Why Remove Passwords and Restrictions?

Removing the password isn’t about making your file less secure; it’s about making life easier. If you’re the file owner and already know the password, removing it saves you time and makes collaboration easier.

Similarly, removing restrictions like printing or copying lets you get more done without unnecessary roadblocks. Whether you're editing text, merging files, or just printing a form, having full access to your document helps you work faster.

And if you need to resecure your file later? Just head to our Protect PDF tool and apply a new password—stronger, longer, and easier to remember.

Is It Safe To Unlock PDFs With Smallpdf?

Absolutely. Smallpdf transfers files for all our tools via a super secure connection. Our site uses TLS encryption to ensure the best security for you and your information while using our services. Your files are never read, analyzed, or downloaded.

We permanently delete your files an hour after processing. They’re only available long enough to guarantee you have time to download or share your files once you’re done working on them.

If you want complete peace of mind, just use the desktop app. It keeps everything on your device and doesn’t need to connect to the internet after setup.

Let’s Clear a Few Questions Up

Can I unlock a PDF if I don’t know the password?

Nope. You’ll need the right password first. We can’t unlock files without it.

Can I remove editing restrictions?

Yep! If you can open it, you can probably remove editing, copying, and printing restrictions too.

What is a permissions-restricted PDF?

These are PDFs that let you view the file but block other actions like printing or form filling. Smallpdf helps unprotect PDF permissions so you can use the file fully. If you know the password

Is unlocking a PDF legal?

If the file belongs to you, or you’ve been given permission to use it, then yes. Just don’t use any tool to bypass someone else’s file security without their consent.

Can I relock the PDF after I’ve removed the password?

Absolutely. Use the Protect PDF tool to apply a new password. We recommend using one that’s long, unique, and saved somewhere secure.

Does Smallpdf offer a PDF password remover online?

Yes—our Unlock PDF tool is a fully online PDF password remover designed for documents you already have access to. It’s fast, free to try, and doesn’t require installation.

Make Life Easier Next Time

You can avoid all this in future by keeping an unsecured backup just in case. Before you send it to anyone, add printing or editing restrictions, and a password if it is confidential.

Now that your PDF is unlocked, you can do a lot more with it. Need to trim the file size before emailing it? Use Compress PDF. Want to make a quick change or fill in a form? Go to Edit PDF. Combine it with another file? Merge PDF has you covered.

We’ve got over 20 tools ready to help. No fuss, no fluff, just done.