Send a Google Doc as PDF Attachment from Gmail
Sending a Google Doc as a PDF attachment from Gmail is a common workflow for anyone who shares documents externally. Export the doc, then attach the PDF in Gmail. The whole process takes under a minute.
Export and attach workflow
Open the Google Doc and click the Docs to PDF extension icon. The PDF downloads. Switch to Gmail, compose your email, and click the paperclip icon to attach the PDF. Navigate to your downloads folder and select the file.
Attaching from Drive in Gmail
If you configured the extension to save exports to Drive, use the Google Drive icon in Gmail's compose window instead. Navigate to the PDF in Drive and attach it without touching your local downloads folder.
Multiple attachments
To send multiple PDFs in one email, batch export all documents first, then attach them all in one step from your downloads folder. Hold Ctrl or Cmd while selecting files in the attach dialog to pick multiple at once.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I send a Google Doc as PDF from Gmail without downloading the file?
Yes. If the PDF is saved to Google Drive, use the Drive attachment option in Gmail's compose window.
What is the maximum size of a PDF I can send in Gmail?
Gmail supports up to 25 MB per attachment. Use a file larger than that as a Drive link instead.
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