How to Remove Read Only From PDF: Quick and Easy Guide

If you've ever needed to edit or copy text from a protected document, you've likely wondered how to remove read only from PDF files. Many PDFs come with restrictions that prevent printing, editing, or extracting content, which can be frustrating when you need to make quick changes. In this guide, we'll explore simple, effective methods to unlock read-only PDFs so you can work with your documents freely and efficiently.

Part 1. What Is a Read-Only PDF File?

A read-only PDF file is a PDF that has been intentionally restricted so viewers can open and read the document but cannot modify it. Depending on how the permissions are set, users may also be blocked from actions like copying text, printing, or filling out forms.

Key Characteristics of a Read-Only PDF

• Editing is disabled: Users cannot change text, images, or structure.
• Often password-protected: The creator may set a permissions password to prevent alterations.
• Copying and printing may be restricted: These restrictions are optional and depend on settings.
• Useful for finalized documents: For example, contracts, invoices, manuals, academic papers, or any file where the author wants to preserve the original format.

How to Tell if a PDF Is Read-Only

Signs include:

• Editing tools are disabled or grayed out.
• Attempts to modify the file prompt a message like "This document is secured."
• You cannot type, highlight, or move objects in the PDF.

Part 2: How to Remove Read Only From PDF in Easy Ways?

Removing "Read Only" from a PDF depends on whether the file is locked by your operating system (meaning you can't delete or move it) or restricted by the PDF software itself (meaning you can't edit the text).

Here are the solutions for both scenarios.

Scenario 1: The File is Locked by the Computer (OS Level)

If you cannot delete, move, or save over the file, it is likely marked as "Read-only" by Windows or macOS.

On Windows

Step 1. Right-click the PDF file and select Properties.

Step 2. Look for the "Attributes" section at the bottom of the General tab.

Step 3. Uncheck the box labeled Read-only.

Step 4. Click Apply and then OK.

On Mac

Step 1. Select the PDF file in Finder.

Step 2. Press Command + I (or right-click and choose Get Info).

Step 3. In the "General" section, uncheck the box labeled Locked.

Step 4. (Optional) If you still cannot edit it, check the "Sharing & Permissions" section at the bottom to ensure your user account has Read & Write privileges.

Scenario 2: The PDF restricts Editing (Password/Security)

If you can open the file but cannot edit text, print, or copy content, the PDF has "Restrict Editing" security enabled.

Method 1: The "Print to PDF" Trick (Free & Easiest)

This method removes editing restrictions by creating a new copy of the file. It works on almost any computer with a web browser.

Step 1. Open the PDF in a browser like Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge.

Step 2. Click the Print icon (or press Ctrl + P / Cmd + P).

Step 3. In the "Destination" or "Printer" dropdown, select Save as PDF or Microsoft Print to PDF.

Step 4. Click Save. The new file will be an identical copy but without the editing restrictions.

Method 2: Using Adobe Acrobat Pro (Official Method)

If you have the paid version of Adobe Acrobat, you can officially remove the security settings.

Step 1. Open the locked PDF in Adobe Acrobat Pro.

Step 2. Click on the Tools tab and select Protect.

Step 3. Click Advanced Options and choose Remove Security.

Step 4. If the document has a "Permissions Password," you may need to type it in. If you do not know it, you can use TunesKit File Password Recovery to remove your password quickly.

Method 3: Using Google Docs to Open a Read-only PDF

Google Docs doesn't enforce most PDF read-only restrictions. When you open a secured PDF in Google Docs, it converts (OCRs) the file into an editable document, allowing you to make changes and save a new version.

How to edit a read-only PDF with Google Docs:

Step 1. Upload the PDF to Google Drive.

Step 2. Right-click the uploaded file, select Open with, and choose Google Docs.

Step 3. Google Docs will automatically convert the PDF into an editable format.

Step 4. Make your changes as needed.

Step 5. When finished, you can download the edited document as a PDF if you want.

Part 3. How to Change A PDF From Read Only to Editable In 1-Click?

PDF files are the gold standard for document sharing, but their security features can become a major bottleneck when you need to make quick edits. Encountering a "Read Only" restriction often means facing grayed-out toolbars and a halted workflow just when you need to move fast. Furthermore, relying on online converters to unlock these files can pose significant privacy risks for sensitive data.

To solve this instantly, TunesKit File Password Recovery offers a secure and efficient workaround. This professional utility is designed to remove permissions from PDF without damaging your file structure. Instead of struggling with technical passwords, you can rely on TunesKit to remove the "Read Only" status and regain full editing capabilities with just a 1-click.

Here's how to remove read only from PDF using TunesKit File Password Recovery.

Step 1Select the File Type: PDF

Download and launch TunesKit File Password Recovery on your computer. On the main interface, you can see options for different file types. Select the PDF tab to proceed.

Step 2Select Remove PDF Restriction

Then you should choose "Remove PDF Restriction". It is important to choose this mode rather than "Recover Password," as you are trying to bypass editing limits, not necessarily find a lost password to open the file.

Step 3Import Your PDF File to Program

Click the "Add" button (usually a plus sign +) or drag and drop your read-only PDF file into the software window. Once the file is loaded, click the "Start Remove" button. The software will process the file to strip the "Owner Password" that enforces the read-only status.

Step 4Successfully Remove PDF Read Only Restrictions

When the process finishes (usually in a few seconds), the software will indicate success. Open the output folder to find the new copy of your PDF. You should now be able to edit, print, or copy text from this new file without restrictions.

Important Note on Password Types

• If the file opens without a password: The method above works immediately. The "read-only" status is caused by an "Owner Password" which TunesKit can remove directly.
• If the file requires a password to open: You must first use the "Recover PDF Password" mode (using Brute Force or Dictionary attacks) to find the password. Once you have the password to open the file, you can then use the steps above to permanently remove the restrictions.

Part 4. FAQs about How to Remove Read Only From PDF

Part 5. Conclusion

Finding a reliable method for how to remove read only from PDF documents is essential for anyone who needs to edit reports or sign contracts without compromising the file's visual integrity. While many standard workarounds result in blurry text or broken formatting, TunesKit File Password Recovery offers a professional solution that modifies the permission settings directly rather than altering the content.