How to remove a password from a PDF on a Mac, when you know it
Tired of typing the password every time you open your own PDF? Save an unlocked copy on a Mac with Preview in a minute. You need the current password.
Bank statements and payslips often arrive locked with a password, usually a date of birth or part of an account number. Once you have it, you can save a copy that opens without it.
The free way: Preview
- Open the PDF in Preview and type the password.
- Choose File > Export.
- Make sure Encrypt is not ticked.
- Save under a new name.
If Export keeps the lock, use File > Print, then PDF > Save as PDF instead.
If Preview will not let you
Some PDFs open freely but block printing, copying or changes. Preview says it needs the owner password to save. If you have that password, enter it with File > Enter Password, or with the Inspector's lock icon.
If you do not know the password
Ask whoever sent it. Banks usually explain their password pattern in the email or on their website. Nothing here gets round a password you do not have.
Keep it safe
An unlocked bank statement is readable by anyone who gets the file. Keep unlocked copies somewhere private.
The one click way
Simply PDF's Password tool unlocks a PDF with its current password and saves an unlocked copy beside the original.
Questions
How do I remove a password from a PDF on a Mac?
Open it in Preview with the password, choose File > Export, leave Encrypt unticked and save a new copy.
Can I remove a PDF password without knowing it?
No. You need the current password. Ask the sender, or check their email for the password pattern.