Make a scanned PDF searchable
Add a text layer to a scan, without uploading it.
A scanned PDF is just images, so you cannot search or select its words. OCR reads the text and adds an invisible layer over the scan, making it searchable. This runs in your browser, so the document is never uploaded.
How to make a scanned PDF searchable
- 1
Add your scan
Drop in the scanned PDF you want to search.
- 2
Run OCR
The text is recognised on your device and added as a layer.
- 3
Download
Save a searchable PDF that looks the same but has selectable text.
Why OCR on your device
OCR services normally upload your scan to read it. Running it in the browser means even sensitive documents are recognised locally, with nothing sent to a server.
Frequently asked questions
Does the page still look the same?+
Yes. OCR adds an invisible text layer over the scan, so the appearance is unchanged but the words are now selectable and searchable.
Is my scan uploaded?+
No. Recognition runs in your browser, so the document never leaves your device.
Which languages are supported?+
The tool recognises common scripts; accuracy is best on clear, straight scans.
Is it free?+
Yes, with no sign-up.