Restrict PDF Permissions
Block printing, copying or editing a PDF.
Click to upload or drag & drop
Select a PDF file
How to use the Restrict PDF Permissions
- 1Upload your PDF
Drag and drop or click to select the PDF.
- 2Choose restrictions
Set an owner password and allow or deny printing, copying and editing.
- 3Apply
Click Restrict PDF and our server applies the permissions with qpdf.
- 4Download
The restricted PDF downloads automatically.
Restrict what people can do with a PDF
This tool locks down a PDF's permissions — printing, copying text and editing — while still letting anyone open it without a password. The restrictions are enforced with an owner password set with qpdf on our server.
When to use it
- Stop a shared document from being printed or edited.
- Prevent people copying text out of a report.
- Distribute a read-only PDF that still opens freely.
Private & secure
Your file is uploaded over an encrypted HTTPS connection, converted on our server and streamed straight back to your device. Each request runs in its own isolated workspace that is deleted the instant the result is returned, so nothing is ever stored or shared.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will people still be able to open the PDF?
Yes. The document opens with no password; only the actions you deny (printing, copying, editing) are blocked. The owner password protects those settings.
How strong are these restrictions?
Permission flags are respected by mainstream PDF readers. They are a strong deterrent, though determined users with specialist tools can sometimes bypass permission-only protection — use Protect PDF with an open password for stronger security.
Are my files uploaded to a server?
Yes. Unlike our browser-based tools, the Restrict PDF Permissions runs on our secure server because it needs professional desktop-grade software to do the job well. Your file is processed in an isolated workspace and deleted automatically the moment the result is sent back — nothing is stored, logged or shared.
Is it free? Is there a watermark or size limit?
It is completely free with no sign-up and no watermark. Files up to 100 MB are supported per conversion.