Flatten a PDF
Turn filled-in form fields into fixed text so answers can't be edited, or flatten everything so the PDF prints and looks the same everywhere.
Nothing is uploaded. Your files stay private.
Popular uses
Opens the tool with the right settings already chosen.
How to flatten a PDF
Three steps, about ten seconds.
- 01
Add your PDF
Drop it in the box, or tap to choose it.
- 02
Choose what to flatten
Form fields keeps text selectable. Everything turns pages into images.
- 03
Download
Press Flatten PDF to save the locked copy.
Good to know
When you fill in a PDF form, the answers sit in editable boxes that anyone can change, and some apps don't show them at all. Flattening writes the answers onto the page, so the form looks the same everywhere and can't be quietly altered.
Form fields flattens only the boxes and keeps everything else as it is, including selectable text. Everything draws each page as an image, which also locks comments, highlights, signatures and drawings, at the cost of text selection and a larger file.
Flatten after you've signed or filled a form and before you send it. If the result is too large to upload, run it through Compress PDF.
Frequently asked questions
How do I make a PDF non-editable?
Choose Everything and download. Each page becomes an image, so text, form answers, comments and signatures can't be changed separately.
What does flattening a PDF mean?
It merges form answers and annotations into the page itself, so they become part of the document and can't be edited separately.
Will I still be able to select text?
With Form fields, yes. With Everything, no: each page becomes an image.
Why is my flattened PDF bigger?
Everything stores each page as a picture. Use Standard quality, or compress the result afterwards.
Is my PDF uploaded?
No. Flattening happens in your browser, so the PDF stays on your device.