What does flattening a PDF do?

It merges all layers and annotations into a single static PDF page.

Can I use this tool for free?

Yes, you can use the flatten PDF tool online for free.

Flatten PDF

Merge annotations, form fields, and layers into a static non-interactive PDF — all in your browser.

or drag and drop here

(Your file stays on your device)

Try vector form flatten first (preserves selectable text) Force rasterize all pages

Raster quality (scale)

Higher = better quality but larger file size. (1.0 = normal)

Flatten PDF – Convert Fillable Forms & Layers into a Non-Editable PDF

PDF files often contain interactive elements such as form fields, layers, annotations, comments, digital signatures, and embedded objects. While these features are useful for editing, they can cause issues when printing, sharing, or uploading documents to online portals. Our Flatten PDF tool converts all interactive components of a PDF into a single, non-editable layer — making the file more secure, stable, and universally compatible.

If you want to protect the flattened PDF with a password, use Lock PDF. If you need to compress the final file, try Compress PDF.

What Does “Flattening a PDF” Mean?

Flattening a PDF means merging all interactive or editable elements into a static document layer. After flattening, all text, images, form fields, annotations, and layers become part of the PDF’s permanent content. This means they can no longer be edited, moved, or removed.

Here are the common interactive elements that flattening removes:

Form fields (text boxes, checkboxes, dropdowns)
Annotations (highlights, comments, notes)
Signatures or signature boxes
Layers (OCG content from design tools)
Embedded graphics or interactive objects

If you also want to modify metadata after flattening, use Edit PDF Metadata.

Why Flatten a PDF File?

Flattening is essential when you must produce a clean, final, and uneditable version of your document. Here are the main reasons why users flatten PDFs:

Fix Viewing Issues: Some devices cannot display form fields or layers correctly.
Secure PDF Content: Prevent others from altering form fields or annotations.
Ensure Consistent Printing: Flattening makes sure the document prints exactly as shown.
Prepare for Upload: Many government and corporate portals require flattened PDFs.
Reduce File Complexity: Removing interactive elements can improve compatibility and performance.

If you want to rotate or reorder pages before flattening, use Rotate PDF or Reorder PDF.

Main Features of Our Flatten PDF Tool

Our tool makes flattening simple, secure, and reliable. Whether your PDF contains form fields, layers, design elements, or annotations, the tool merges everything into a single, non-editable document. Key features include:

Flatten Form Fields: Convert fillable forms into static text.
Flatten Annotations: Merge highlights, comments, and notes into the page.
Flatten Layers: Combine layered content into one visible layer.
Fix Signature Issues: Convert digital signatures to non-editable graphics.
High-Quality Output: Retains the original clarity and layout.
Instant Processing: Flatten your PDF in seconds.
Free & Unlimited: Use the tool as many times as you want.
Secure Conversion: Files are encrypted and auto-deleted after processing.
Fully Online: No installation or plugins required.

If you want to convert your flattened PDF into images, try PDF to JPG or PDF to PNG.

How to Flatten a PDF (Step-by-Step Guide)

Flattening your PDF using our online tool is easy and does not require any technical experience. Follow the steps below:

Click the “Upload PDF File” button.
Wait while the tool analyzes the document and its interactive layers.
Click the “Flatten PDF” button to convert all elements into static content.
Download your flattened PDF instantly.

If your PDF still displays blank pages or errors after flattening, repair it using PDF Repair.

Who Should Use the Flatten PDF Tool?

Flattening PDFs is helpful for many users who want to finalize or secure their documents. Here are the most common cases:

Students: Flatten forms, assignments, and scanned notes before submission.
Teachers: Create uneditable worksheets and handouts.
Office Workers: Finalize reports, invoices, and digital forms.
Lawyers: Prepare clean legal documents without editable fields.
Designers: Flatten layered design PDFs from Adobe, Figma, or other tools.
General Users: Create stable PDFs for printing or archiving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the Flatten PDF tool free?
Yes, the tool is fully free with unlimited usage.

2. Will flattening reduce the quality of my PDF?
No — the tool maintains original text and image clarity.

3. Can I edit the PDF after flattening?
No — flattening makes the document non-editable.

4. Are my files safe?
Absolutely — files are encrypted and deleted automatically after processing.

5. Does the tool support large PDF files?
Yes, it works with PDFs of all sizes, including scanned or multi-page documents.

Conclusion

Our Flatten PDF tool offers a fast, secure, and reliable way to convert interactive PDFs into clean, final, non-editable documents. Whether you're preparing files for printing, sharing, or uploading to portals, this tool ensures maximum stability and compatibility. For more PDF tools, explore PDF Repair, Lock PDF, or Compress PDF. Flatten your PDF today — simple, fast, and completely free!