How to Remove a Password from a PDF

Removing a password from a PDF is simple when you know the current password. This guide covers the most common methods across platforms so you can choose the one that fits your setup.

Method 1: Mac Preview

Open the PDF in Preview. Enter the password when prompted. Go to File > Export as PDF. Leave the password field empty. Click Save. The new file has no password.

Method 2: Chrome print to PDF

Open Chrome, open the PDF, enter the password. Press Ctrl+P or Cmd+P. Set the destination to 'Save as PDF.' Click Save. The saved file has no password.

Method 3: PDF24

Go to pdf24.org and select Unlock PDF. Upload the file and enter the password. Download the unlocked version. PDF24 also has a desktop version that handles this locally.

Method 4: Adobe Acrobat

Open the PDF in Acrobat, enter the password. Go to File > Properties > Security. Change the Security Method to No Security. Click OK and save.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to install software to remove a PDF password?

Not necessarily. Chrome and Mac Preview can remove passwords without any extra software. PDF24.org works in the browser on any platform.

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