Last updated: October 2026
How to add page numbers to a PDF
Short answer: drop your PDF above, choose the position and number format, set the starting number, and click Add page numbers. The preview line shows exactly what the first stamped page will read.
- Choose the PDF you want to number — it stays in your browser and is never uploaded.
- Pick the position (bottom center, bottom right, top, and more) and the format: plain number, “Page 1”, “Page 1 of N”, or roman numerals.
- Set the starting number — use 1 for a fresh document, or a higher number to continue an existing sequence.
- Click “Add page numbers” and download the numbered PDF.
Why number the pages of a PDF?
Make long documents navigable — readers, reviewers and printers all rely on page numbers to find and cite content. Keep multi-part files in order — a starting number lets you continue numbering across split documents. Look professional — “Page 1 of 12” in the footer is the finishing touch on reports, theses and contracts. For legal filings that need a formal prefix, use our Bates numbering tool instead; to add running headers as well, see Add Header & Footer to PDF.
Frequently asked questions
Is my PDF uploaded anywhere?
No. The entire numbering runs in your browser with JavaScript — your PDF never leaves your device, which makes this safe for sensitive documents.
What number formats are available?
Four: a plain number (1, 2, 3), “Page 1”, “Page 1 of N” with the total page count, and roman numerals (I, II, III) for front matter like prefaces.
Can I start numbering from a number other than 1?
Yes. Set the starting number to anything — for example, start at 5 to continue a document that was split into two files.
Can I number only some pages?
Yes. Choose a page range so the cover or title page stays unnumbered while the rest of the document is numbered.
Will the numbers overlap my content?
They sit in the margin you choose (36 pt by default). If your pages have tight margins, increase the margin setting or pick a corner position with more room.
Do the numbers update if I reorder pages later?
No — the numbers are stamped as permanent page text. Reorder your pages first, then number the final order.
What is the difference from Bates numbering?
Page numbers are simple sequential numbers for reading. Bates numbering adds a fixed prefix plus zero-padded numbers (for example EXHIBIT000123) as a legal exhibit stamp — see our Bates numbering tool for that.
Can I remove page numbers later?
The numbers are drawn into the page content, so there is no one-click undo. Keep your original unnumbered file and save the numbered copy separately.