How to fill in or create a PDF form
This tool does two jobs. If your PDF already has fillable fields, like many government forms, applications and registration sheets, it lists them so you can type your answers without printing anything. If it has none, you can add your own fields and turn a flat document into a form that anyone can fill in with a normal PDF reader.
The fields you create are real PDF form fields (AcroForm), not text pasted on top.
Step by step
- Upload your PDF. Any existing fields appear under fill existing fields.
- To fill it in, type into each field or tick the checkboxes.
- To create a field, enter a unique name, choose the type and, for a dropdown or radio group, type the options separated by commas.
- Click place field, drag on the page to position it and repeat for the rest.
- Process and download the form.
Field types available
Text: for names, addresses or dates; draw a tall box and the field accepts several lines. Checkbox: for yes/no answers or consent. Dropdown list: the user picks one option from a list. Single-choice options: radio buttons where only one can be selected, for example Yes, No.
Every field needs a unique name. That is the name software sees when it collects or exports the answers, so pick something clear like full_name or date_of_birth rather than field1.
Tips for forms that work
Place fields over the lines or boxes already printed on the document and leave a little room; if the box is too tight, some readers will clip the text. Lists accept up to 30 options.
You can add fields to a scanned form too, since they sit on top of the page. What you cannot do is detect fields that are not there: a scan never comes with fillable fields. Up to 50 pages per PDF and 50 MB per job.
Frequently asked questions
- How do I know if my PDF has fillable fields?
- When you upload it, the tool lists them under fill existing fields. If there are none, it says so and you can create your own.
- Which field types can I add?
- Text fields, checkboxes, dropdown lists and single-choice radio buttons.
- Will the form work in Adobe Reader and other readers?
- Yes, the tool creates standard PDF form fields that any compatible reader can fill in.
- Can I fill existing fields and add new ones in the same file?
- Yes, both in a single job.
- Can I sign the form?
- Use Sign PDF afterwards to add a visual signature or a certificate-based signature.