Make a scanned PDF searchable (OCR)
Add an invisible text layer to scanned PDFs so you can search, select and copy the text — while the pages look exactly the same.
- Files never uploaded
- Free, no sign-up
- Works on any device
- Works offline
Drop your file here
or drag and drop · One PDF file
Stays on your device — nothing is uploaded
How to use the OCR PDF
Choose a scanned PDF
Drop a PDF made from a scanner or phone camera.
Recognize text
Pick the language and start. Each page is read in turn.
Download
Save a searchable PDF, or copy the extracted text.
About OCR PDF
How a searchable PDF works
Your scanned page stays exactly as it is. Underneath, an invisible layer of recognized text is lined up with the words, so Ctrl+F, selecting and copying all work.
Speed
Recognition takes a few seconds per page, depending on your device. Keep this tab open until it finishes.
Your files never leave your device
Most online PDF sites upload your documents to their servers. DocuVault doesn’t. Everything happens inside your browser, so there is nothing for anyone to see, store or leak.
Check it yourself
Use a tool once, then turn off your Wi-Fi or switch to airplane mode and use it again — it still works. Developers can watch the Network tab: no file is ever sent.
Step 1
You choose a file
Your browser opens it directly from your device — like opening it in an app.
Step 2
Your device does the work
The processing code runs inside this browser tab. No server ever receives your file.
Step 3
You save the result
The new file goes straight to your downloads. Close the tab and everything is gone.
Frequently asked questions
Will the PDF look different?
No. The original page images are kept; only an invisible text layer is added.
My PDF already has selectable text. Do I need this?
No — OCR is for scans and photos. If you can already select text, the PDF is searchable.