Free Online Add Page Numbers to PDF
Stamp page numbers with your chosen position, format, and start number.
Upload a PDF to see its page count.
Upload a PDF to begin.
Page numbers are drawn as real text with the standard Helvetica font. They remain selectable and print sharply at any zoom level. Use a margin of at least 24 points so the number is not clipped by printers that cannot print to the paper edge.
About the Add Page Numbers to PDF Tool
Page numbers make long documents easier to navigate, cite, and print. This tool stamps a number on every page of a PDF using your choice of position, wording, starting value, font size, and margin. The numbers are added as real text rather than an image, so they stay sharp when zoomed and remain selectable in the finished file.
Choosing a format and position
The simple 1 format is unobtrusive and works well for reports, books, and manuals. The Page 1 format is clearer for standalone documents where the number might otherwise be mistaken for a figure. The 1 of N format tells the reader how long the document is, which is helpful for forms, applications, and contracts. Bottom center is the most common position; bottom right suits documents with a wide inner margin. Top positions can conflict with an existing letterhead, so check the first page after processing.
Practical tips
- Start at 1 for a normal document. If you are adding a numbered section to a larger binder, start at the next page number instead.
- Use 10-12 point text for most documents. Smaller sizes become hard to read in print.
- Keep a 24-36 point margin from the paper edge to avoid clipping on home printers.
- Check rotated pages: A page with a rotation attribute may place the number in an unexpected corner. Review the result before sharing.
- Existing numbers: The tool adds new numbers without removing any that are already printed on the page.
Frequently asked questions
Can I skip the first page?
This tool numbers every page. If the first page is a cover and should not be numbered, add numbers and then use the Organize PDF Pages tool for more control, or use a PDF editor to remove the cover number. The starting value only changes the number printed, not which pages receive it.
Will the numbers match my document's font?
Numbers use Helvetica, a clean standard font available in every PDF reader. Embedding a custom font would increase the file size and is not necessary for short numeric labels.
Are my files uploaded?
No. The PDF is read and modified in your browser, and the finished file is created locally.