How to OCR a Scanned PDF to Make It Searchable
Turn scanned images into selectable, searchable text.
OCR (optical character recognition) reads the text inside scans so you can search and copy it.
ChangeMyPDF runs entirely in your browser — your files never leave your device, there's nothing to install, and you can start without an account. Here's exactly how to do it.
Step-by-step
- Open the OCR tool and add your scanned PDF or image.
- Pick the document language.
- Run OCR — it processes locally in your browser.
- Copy or download the recognized text.
Tips for the best result
- Higher-resolution scans recognize more accurately.
- Choose the correct language for best results.
Is it safe and free?
Yes. Most ChangeMyPDF tools process files locally in your browser, so documents are never uploaded to a server. Free accounts can run a few operations per hour; a Week Pass or Premium plan removes the limit and ads if you need to do more.
Frequently asked questions
Do my files get uploaded to a server?
For most tools, no — the work happens in your browser, so your documents stay on your device.
Is it really free?
Yes. Free users get a few runs per hour. For unlimited use and no ads, grab a $5 Week Pass or a Premium plan.
Which browsers are supported?
Any modern browser — Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and Safari on desktop and mobile.