Add Page Numbers to PDF
Add page numbers to a PDF free online — choose position, starting number and format like "Page 1" or "1 of N". Private, in-browser.
About the Add Page Numbers to PDF
Add page numbers to any PDF in seconds, directly in your browser. Choose where the numbers go — bottom center, bottom left or right, or along the top — pick a numbering style like plain "1", "Page 1" or "1 of N", set the font size and the number to start from, and download the finished file immediately.
Starting at a custom number is handy when your document is part of a larger set: if a report's front matter ends at page 4, start this file at 5 and the numbering continues seamlessly. The "1 of N" format is popular for contracts and submissions where reviewers need to confirm no pages are missing.
Your PDF never leaves your device — the numbers are drawn into the file locally with the pdf-lib library, so confidential contracts, theses and reports stay private. There are no watermarks, no page limits and no sign-up.
How to Use the Add Page Numbers to PDF
- 1Upload the PDF you want to number.
- 2Choose a position (bottom or top, left, center or right) and a format: 1, Page 1, or 1 of N.
- 3Set the starting number and font size if the defaults don't fit.
- 4Click Add Page Numbers and download the numbered PDF.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I add page numbers to a PDF without Adobe Acrobat?
Upload your PDF here, pick a position and numbering format, and click Add Page Numbers — the tool writes the numbers into every page using open-source PDF technology in your browser and gives you the finished file straight away. No Acrobat licence, no installation and no upload to a server is needed.
Can I start numbering from a page other than 1?
Yes. Set "Start numbering at" to any value — for example 5 if this file continues a document whose front matter ends at page 4, or 0 for zero-based schemes. Every page in the file is then numbered sequentially from that starting value, and the "1 of N" format adjusts its final number to match.
Which position should I choose for page numbers?
Bottom center is the classic choice for reports, books and academic documents. Bottom right suits business letters and contracts, since the eye lands there when flipping pages. Top positions work well when the footer area already contains other content. Whatever you pick, numbers are placed with a consistent margin on every page.
Will page numbers overlap my existing footer content?
The numbers are drawn about 30 points from the page edge, which sits below most body content but can overlap an existing footer or header text. If your PDF already has content in that corner, choose a different position — for example top right instead of bottom center — or a smaller font size to minimise collisions.
Is my PDF uploaded when I add page numbers?
No. The entire operation runs in your browser: the file is read locally, numbers are stamped onto each page on your own device, and the result is saved back to you directly. Nothing touches a server, which makes the tool safe for contracts, financial statements and other confidential documents.