Preview and PDF: Remove a password which I do know

[jsx97]

I have a protected PDF file, in which I cannot highlight text using Preview and which I cannot print without a password.

I do know a password, but I cannot understand how to remove it from the document. I can click **File** > **Enter Password** and then **Unlock as Owner**, but the next time I open the document, it will be required to type the password again. How to do this?

Just in case, I know about options like using qpdf, but since I do know the password, I would prefer to not use third-party tools.

 

[ab22]

File - Print - (click the PDF button bottom left) - Save as PDF - but don't set security options...

seems to work here on Ventura 13.5

although I can imagine some variance in results, depending on the content / original creator.

 

[ab22]

There's a long thread with solutions at https://discussions.apple.com/thread/253305236?answerId=256754149022#256754149022

and another with detailed background : https://discussions.apple.com/thread/253535174?answerId=256619803022#256619803022

some users say opening troublesome pdfs in a browser makes Print - (PDF) - Save as PDF available if Preview has it grayed out.



Although if you're OK with there being a password, but not needing it… using Edit Permissions - then checking every box & saving is quicker