How to Add Page Numbers to a PDF
Follow these three steps to number one PDF or apply the same layout to several files. No software installation required.
Add Your PDF Files
Select one or multiple PDFs from your device. Enter the correct password when a protected file needs to be opened.
Choose the Numbering Style
Choose where the numbers should appear and how they should read, such as 1, Page 1, or Page 1 of 12. Adjust the size and margin, set the starting number, and leave the first or last page unnumbered if needed.
Add the Numbers and Download
Click “Add page numbers.” Download one numbered PDF, or download several completed files individually or together in a ZIP file.
How Does PDF Page Numbering Work?
The tool adds a visible number to each included PDF page. It does not merely change the page labels shown in a reader’s sidebar or navigation controls. The starting number determines what appears on the first numbered page, while the selected format controls whether the document shows a simple number, a Page N label, or both the current page and total page count. If several PDFs are added, the same settings are applied to each file independently. Each PDF is processed locally in your browser, and the numbered document is created as a new file without replacing the original.
What "in your browser" means
- Your PDF files are opened and numbered on your device
- The documents are not uploaded to a server
- PDF passwords are used only in your browser
- The numbered PDFs and ZIP file are created locally
Choose a Page Number Format
Use a simple number for a clean layout, or include labels and the total page count when readers need more context.
| Format | Example | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Simple number | 1 | Clean reports, handouts, and printed documents |
| Page label | Page 1 | Formal documents where the number needs a clear label |
| Page and total | Page 1 of 12 | Reports and submissions where the full length matters |
| Number and total | 1 / 12 | Compact page references with a total count |
| Dash format | - 1 - | Centered footer numbering with a traditional print style |
| Custom format | Appendix – 1 / 12 | Adding your own text around the page and total values |
Use {page} for the current number and {pages} for the document’s full page count. The {pages} value still includes pages left unnumbered at the beginning or end.
Why Use This PDF Page Numbering Tool?
Easy to Use
Give an existing PDF page numbers without rebuilding it in a word processor. The focused tool makes a small finishing task approachable.
Clearer Page References
Numbered pages are easier to discuss in reviews, meetings, and correspondence. Readers can point to the same part of the document without describing where it appears.
Less Repetitive Editing
A long document does not need a number typed onto every page by hand. Automatic numbering leaves you more time to review the content itself.
No Installation Required
Finish the PDF directly in your browser without a desktop editing suite. This is useful when the document is complete and only needs page references.
Free Without Signup
Add the finishing detail without paying for software or opening an account. The numbering tool and download are available for free.
Private Document Handling
Unpublished reports and other private PDFs stay on your device. Page numbers are added locally, without uploading your document for processing.
PDF Page Numbers FAQ
How do I add page numbers to a PDF online?
Add page numbers in three steps: 1. Select one or multiple PDF files. 2. Choose the format, position, size, margin, and starting number. 3. Click “Add page numbers,” then download the numbered PDF or ZIP file.
What page number formats can I use?
Choose simple numbers, Page N, Page N of M, - N -, or N / M. You can also create a custom format with {page} for the current number and {pages} for the document’s total page count. Roman numerals and letter sequences are not currently available.
Where can I place the page numbers?
Choose from nine positions: top, center, or bottom of the page, aligned left, center, or right. You can also select a small, medium, or large margin from the page edge.
Can I leave the first or last page unnumbered?
Yes, when the PDF contains more than two pages. You can leave the first page, the last page, or both unnumbered. This is useful for covers, title pages, and closing sheets.
Can page numbering start with a number other than 1?
Yes. Enter the number that should appear on the first numbered page. This is useful when the PDF continues a report, chapter, or document that began elsewhere.
Can I add page numbers to multiple PDFs at once?
Yes. The same format and placement are applied to every added PDF. Each file starts with the selected starting number and remains a separate output; numbering does not continue from one PDF to the next.
Can I number password-protected PDFs?
Yes, when you know the correct password. The file is unlocked and numbered locally in your browser, and the password is not uploaded to a server.
What is the difference between page numbers and Bates numbers?
Regular page numbers help readers navigate within a document. Bates numbers provide unique sequential identifiers for pages across a legal or records production. Use the Bates Numbering tool when the sequence needs to continue across several PDFs.