OCR PDF
Make scanned PDFs searchable: recognise the text on every page and add a hidden text layer you can select, copy and search.
Private by design: your files are processed inside your browser and are never uploaded to our server.
About OCR PDF
Scanned PDFs are just pictures of text, so you cannot search or copy them. OCR reads the words on every page and adds an invisible text layer, so Ctrl+F, copy and screen readers work.
How to use OCR PDF
- Step 1Select your file(s) or drag and drop them into the box.
- Step 2Choose the OCR PDF settings you want.
- Step 3Click the button and download your result.
Questions & answers
Which languages are supported?
English, Hindi, Arabic, French, Spanish and German can be recognised. Searchable layers currently work best for English and other Latin-script languages.
Does OCR change how the PDF looks?
No. The page images stay the same; only an invisible text layer is added.
Is OCR PDF free?
Yes. Every tool on this site is free to use, with no signup, no watermark and no daily limit.
Are my files uploaded to a server?
No. Your files are processed inside your own browser on your device. They are never uploaded, so nobody else can see them.
Is there a file size limit?
There is no fixed limit. Because processing happens on your device, very large files depend on your phone or computer memory. Most files up to a few hundred MB work fine.
Does it work with password-protected PDFs?
Yes. If a PDF needs a password to open, the tool asks for it and then works normally. The password never leaves your browser.
Does it work on mobile?
Yes. It works in Chrome, Safari, Edge and Firefox on Android, iPhone, Windows and Mac.