About Unlock PDF
Some PDFs open normally but block printing, copying or editing. Unlock PDF makes a fresh copy with those limits removed, so you can use files that belong to you.
Some PDFs open fine but block printing, copying or editing. This tool makes a fresh copy with those limits gone, so you can use files that belong to you. To do that, every page is redrawn as a sharp image, which means the new file's text is not selectable. Please only use it on files you have the right to change. It cannot open a PDF that asks for a password just to view it.
How to use Unlock PDF
- Choose your PDF.
- Press Unlock PDF.
- Download the unlocked copy.
When to use Unlock PDF
- Print a PDF that opens fine but has the print option greyed out.
- Use your own document after losing the settings that restricted it.
- Merge or split a file that other tools refuse to process.
- Archive a copy of your own paperwork without usage limits.
Tips for better results
- Use this tool only on files you own or have the right to change.
- Every page is redrawn as a sharp image, so text in the new file cannot be selected.
- It cannot open a PDF that needs a password just to view it.
Why use 40PDF for this?
The unlocking is done in your browser, so your document is never uploaded while its restrictions are being removed.
Unlock PDF: questions and answers
Why can't I select text in the unlocked file?
To remove the restrictions, each page is saved as a picture in a brand new PDF. Text looks the same but is no longer selectable.
Can it crack a forgotten password?
No. If a PDF asks for a password to open, this tool cannot bypass it.
Is this legal?
Using it on your own files is fine. Do not use it to get around restrictions on documents you do not have rights to.
How do I remove restrictions from a PDF?
Open Unlock PDF, add your file and press Unlock PDF. Download the new copy without printing and editing limits.
Can this tool recover a forgotten password?
No. It removes editing and printing limits only. It cannot open a file that requires a password to be viewed.
Is it legal to unlock a PDF?
Unlocking your own documents is generally fine. Do not use it to bypass protection on files you have no right to change.