All tools

Set PDF permissions — restrict printing, copying and editing

Control printing, copying, editing and form filling.

Drop your file here

or click to browse — one file at a time

How to restrict PDF permissions in your browser

Control what readers can do with your document. Permission flags are enforced with encryption, so recipients can still open the PDF but cannot print, copy text or edit it unless you allow it.

  1. 1Upload the PDF.
  2. 2Toggle the permissions you want to allow.
  3. 3Set an owner password if you have one.
  4. 4Download the restricted PDF.

What this restrict PDF permissions tool does

Granular controls

Toggle printing, high-resolution printing, content copying, editing, annotation and form filling independently.

Readable without a password

Leave the open password empty so the file opens normally while the restrictions still apply.

Owner password protection

An owner password prevents the restrictions from being lifted by the recipient.

Why people use it

  • Free with no account, no email and no watermark
  • Runs in the browser — documents stay on your device
  • Works on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android and iOS
  • Also great for disable printing PDF and prevent copying from PDF

Frequently asked questions

Are PDF permissions strong security?

They are enforced by compliant viewers. For strict confidentiality add an open password as well.

Can I remove restrictions later?

Yes, with the Unlock PDF tool if you know the owner password.

Related PDF tools

Continue your workflow with another free PDF tool from PaperWorksPDF.

Browse all PDF tools

More security tools