How to Open a PDF File with Password Protection

This guide shows you how to open a password protected PDF file on Mac, Windows, and mobile devices, plus what to do if you’ve lost your password or need to recover access.

Learning how to open a PDF file with password protection doesn't have to be complicated. You can access secured files on Windows, macOS (Preview), or mobile devices with just a few clicks.

This guide walks you through the process and offers tips for recovering lost or corrupted passwords.

Know the basics of password-protected PDFs

A password-protected PDF is an encrypted file that restricts unauthorized access. Anyone without the correct password will not be able to view or edit its content. These are commonly used for tax forms, contracts, and legal documents.

There are two types of passwords:

1. User password – required to open the PDF file.
2. Owner password – controls permissions like printing or copying.

If you're looking to secure your own PDF, check out these guides:

• How to password protect a PDF on Mac
• How to password protect a PDF on iPhone
• How to protect a PDF from editing without a password

Open a password protected PDF on Windows or Mac

Steps for Windows

1. Locate the PDF and double-click to open it in your default PDF viewer (such as Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome).
2. When prompted, enter the password exactly as it was created. Passwords are case-sensitive.
3. Click OK or press Enter to access the document.

If the file has an owner password, you might still open it but be unable to copy or print unless you also provide the owner password.

Steps for Mac (Preview)

1. Open Finder and locate the secured PDF.
2. Double-click to open it. It usually opens with Preview.
3. Enter the password in the window and press Enter.
4. Once open, you can zoom, annotate, or share the file depending on its permissions.

Open password protected PDF files with Xodo PDF Reader

Xodo PDF Reader is a free desktop software that supports secure PDF access and viewing. Here's how to open a password-protected PDF using it:

1. Download Xodo PDF Reader on your Windows, Mac, or Linux device.
2. Install and launch the app.
3. Go to File > Open, then select the protected PDF.
4. When prompted, enter the correct password.
5. View or annotate the file, depending on its permission settings.

If your PDF is stored in a cloud service like Dropbox, OneDrive, or Google Drive, you can open it directly from within Xodo PDF Reader.

Open secured PDFs on the go

Xodo’s mobile apps for iOS and Android let you access password-protected files from your phone or tablet, with the same secure viewing experience.

Tips to recover lost or corrupted passwords

If you lose or forget your PDF password, try the following:

• Contact the sender: If someone else created the file, ask for the password or a new version of the file.
• Use a password manager: This helps prevent future loss by storing passwords securely.
• Check backup copies: Old versions of the file might have simpler passwords.
• Fix corruption issues: Re-download the original PDF or request a fresh copy if the file won’t open. Corruption usually happens if the file didn’t download fully or was saved incorrectly.

Always keep your passwords in a secure place. Without the correct password, you generally can't open or modify the file.

Frequently asked questions

Can I open a protected PDF in my browser?

Yes. Chrome, Edge, Safari, and other modern browsers support PDF viewing. When you open a protected PDF, you will be prompted to input the password.

Do I need a paid tool to open a locked PDF?

No. Free tools like Xodo PDF Reader, Adobe Acrobat Reader, and browsers can open secured PDFs quickly.

Why won’t my PDF password work?

Check for typos and case sensitivity first. If it still fails, you might have a corrupted file or the password may be outdated.

How do I remove a PDF password?

To remove a password, you’ll need permission or the owner password. In Xodo PDF Reader, go to Document Security (left side pane), then select Details and click Edit. Enter the current password to unlock the file and remove protection.

Can I open multiple protected PDFs at once?

Yes. Each file will prompt for its password. You can open several tabs in your viewer.

Is it risky to share a PDF password over email?

Yes. You should split the password across different methods, like messaging one half and emailing the other.

What to do next

Opening a protected PDF is simple if you have the right password. Free tools like Xodo PDF Reader make it easy to access and view PDF files across Windows, Mac, and Linux.

If you need editing, encryption, or working with PDF forms, consider using Xodo PDF Studio. It offers advanced options for managing PDF security, permissions, and file exports.