Add page numbers to a PDF
Number the pages of a PDF, starting anywhere you like.
To add page numbers to PDF files, upload one, choose the start number, one of three bottom positions and a label format, then download the numbered file. Formats include a plain number, Page 1, 1 / 10 and Page 1 of 10. Numbers are printed in small black Helvetica text on every page; you cannot skip the cover or number only some pages in this tool.
How to number a PDF
Choose a PDF up to 25 MiB. Set Start numbering at, which defaults to 1, then pick bottom left, bottom centre or bottom right and one of the four formats. Submit and download the file, named after the original with -numbered added. Zoom in on a few pages to check the numbers do not collide with existing footers.
Formats and start number
The plain format prints 1, 2, 3. Page 1 adds the word. The 1 / 10 and Page 1 of 10 formats also print the total page count. The start number shifts the count only: if you start at 5 on a 10-page file, the pages show 5 to 14, and the total shown in the of-format is still 10 because it is the number of pages in the file.
Limits to know
Every page gets a number, including a title page, and the position is limited to the bottom edge about 12 points up. The text size is 10 points and the colour is black, with no options to change them. Text is drawn on top of what is already there, so busy footers can overlap. For wider changes, edit the source document instead.
Where this fits in a workflow
Combine documents first with Merge PDF, which has a quick page-number checkbox for a single continuous count, then use this tool when you need a different start number, corner or format. If pages are in the wrong order, fix that with Reorder / Delete PDF Pages before numbering, since numbers are stamped in the final page order.
Frequently asked questions
How do I add page numbers to a PDF?
Upload the PDF, pick the start number, position and format, and submit. You download a new PDF with a number stamped near the bottom of every page, such as Page 1 of 10.
Can I start numbering from a number other than 1?
Yes. Set Start numbering at to any whole number of 1 or more. The first page gets that number and the rest follow in order. The total in the of-formats still shows the actual page count.
Can I skip the first page or number only some pages?
No. Every page is numbered. To leave a cover unnumbered, split it off with Split PDF, number the rest, then join them with Merge PDF. The remaining pages will then start at your chosen number.
Can I put page numbers at the top of the page?
No. The options are bottom left, bottom centre and bottom right only. If a footer already uses that space, the number may overlap it, so look over the result before you share it.
Can I change the font or size of the numbers?
No. Numbers use 10 point Helvetica in black. The tool has no font, size or colour settings. Choose the position that sits best on your pages and check the output before sharing it.
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