Convert a Shared Google Doc to PDF
Converting a shared Google Doc to PDF works the same way as converting your own documents. As long as you have at least Viewer access to the document, the Docs to PDF extension can export it to PDF from Drive or from inside the editor.
Access levels that allow PDF export
Viewer, Commenter, and Editor access all allow PDF export through the extension. The extension uses your Google account credentials to call the export API, which checks your access level. If you can open and read the document, you can generally export it to PDF.
When export is blocked
Document owners can restrict downloads by turning off the option to allow viewers and commenters to download, print, and copy. If that restriction is active, the extension will return an error when trying to export. Contact the document owner and ask them to allow downloads if you need a PDF copy.
Exporting from a shared link
If you accessed the document via a shared link rather than being added as a named user, your ability to export depends on the link's access level. View-only shared links typically allow export. If the link is set to restrict downloads, the export will fail.
Shared drives and team files
Files in shared drives follow the same export rules as personal Drive files. If you have been added to the shared drive with Viewer access or higher, you can export any document in it to PDF using the extension.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I convert a Google Doc someone shared with me to PDF?
Yes, if you have at least Viewer access and the owner has not restricted downloads. Open the document or select it in Drive and use the extension as normal.
What do I do if I cannot export a shared document?
The owner has likely restricted downloads. Contact the owner and ask them to enable downloads for viewers. They can do this in Share settings under the gear icon.
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