Add Page Numbers to PDF is a free online tool that stamps numbers on every page of a PDF. Pick a position, use classic "Page X of Y" or legal Bates numbering with a custom prefix, and download the numbered file. Nothing is uploaded; everything runs in your browser.
Add page numbers to a PDF
1. Upload a PDF. 2. Pick a position, format and options below. 3. Click "Add page numbers" and download the file. Your original content is never changed, only numbers are drawn on top.
Drop a PDF file here or click to browse
Processed locally on your device
How to add page numbers to a PDF in 3 steps
- Upload your PDF file by dropping it on the box above or clicking to browse.
- Pick where the numbers go (six positions), choose a format such as "Page X of Y" or Bates, then set the start number, font size and margin.
- Click "Add page numbers" and download the file. The summary shows exactly which labels were stamped, for example "Page 1 of 5 … Page 5 of 5".
What is Bates numbering?
Bates numbering stamps each page with a unique sequential label like EXHIBIT-0001, EXHIBIT-0002. Law firms, courts and medical record teams use it so every page in a document production can be identified and referenced.
Select the Bates format, then set your own prefix (for example your client or exhibit name), the starting number, and how many digits the number part gets (zero-padding). The first page gets the start number unless you turn on "Skip first page".
Will the numbers cover my content?
No, if you place them carefully. Use the margin offset to push numbers into an empty footer or header zone, and pick the corner or center that is free on your pages. The original content is never moved or edited.
Numbers are drawn with the built-in Helvetica font so they look the same on every device, and they stay as crisp vector text at any zoom level.
Does it work on scanned PDFs?
Yes. Numbers are drawn on top of each page, so scanned images, form exports and fillable PDFs all number correctly.
The only files this tool cannot open are password-protected or corrupted PDFs, which you will need to unlock first.
Frequently asked questions
Are my PDF files uploaded to a server?
No. Page numbering runs entirely in your browser with pdf-lib - your files never leave your device.
What is Bates numbering and when do I need it?
Bates numbering stamps each page with a unique sequential label like EXHIBIT-0001, EXHIBIT-0002. Law firms, courts and medical record teams use it so every page in a production set can be identified and referenced.
Can I skip numbering the first page?
Yes. Turn on "Skip first page" and numbering starts on page 2 with your start number, so title or cover pages stay clean.
Will the numbers cover my existing content?
You choose one of six positions (top or bottom corners and centers) plus a margin offset, so you can place numbers in an empty footer or header zone. The original page content is never modified or moved.
Does this work on scanned PDFs?
Yes. Numbers are drawn on top of each page as real text, so it works on scanned images, exports and fillable forms alike, as long as the PDF is not password-protected.