How to Remove a PDF Password / Restrictions — Free
A PDF you own is locked from printing or copying. Remove those restrictions free, in your browser — or open one you already know the password for.
Real-world use — what we verified
We removed print/copy restrictions from a PDF we owned, and it opened freely afterward.
Honest note: this clears usage restrictions you're allowed to lift — it cannot crack an unknown open password on a file you can't unlock.
Two situations
- Restrictions only (can't print/copy) — re-save to strip them; no password needed.
- Opens with a password you know — enter it and the tool re-saves an unrestricted copy.
Step-by-step
- Open the unlock tool.
- Add your PDF.
- If prompted, enter the open password (it's never stored).
- Click “Unlock” and download the unrestricted file.
If you don't know the password
The tool cannot crack an unknown password — that would be both impractical and improper. Only use it on files you're authorized to open.
FAQ
Can it crack an unknown password?
No — it only removes restrictions or re-saves a file you can already open. Unknown passwords can't be recovered here.
Does it remove restrictions only?
Yes — if the file merely blocks printing/copying, those limits are stripped on re-save.
Is this legal?
Only use it on PDFs you own or are permitted to modify. Don't use it to bypass someone else's protections.