# How do I OCR a scanned PDF?

_Updated July 2026 · Arthize · https://arthize.com/answers/how-to-ocr-pdf_

OCR adds a searchable text layer to a scanned PDF, turning a picture of text into words you can select, search, copy and convert. In Arthize you open the ocr tool, then add your scan, then run ocr, then download, and download the result — free, with no watermark.

## Answer

OCR adds a searchable text layer to a scanned PDF, turning a picture of text into words you can select, search, copy and convert. In Arthize you open the ocr tool, then add your scan, then run ocr, then download, and download the result — free, with no watermark.

## More about ocr pdf

OCR adds an invisible, selectable text layer over the scanned image.

Without OCR, a scanned PDF is just a picture and can't be searched.

Running OCR first is what makes a scan convert cleanly to Word or Excel.

## How to OCR a scanned PDF

1. **Open the OCR tool** — Sign in and open the OCR tool.
2. **Add your scan** — Upload the scanned or image-only PDF.
3. **Run OCR** — Arthize recognises the text and adds it as an invisible, selectable layer.
4. **Download** — Get a searchable PDF whose text you can copy and convert.

## FAQ

### How do I make a scanned PDF searchable?

OCR adds a searchable text layer to a scanned PDF, turning a picture of text into words you can select, search, copy and convert. On Arthize it's free with no watermark and processed privately.

### What is OCR and why does my scan need it?

OCR adds a searchable text layer to a scanned PDF, turning a picture of text into words you can select, search, copy and convert. On Arthize it's free with no watermark and processed privately.

### Is OCR free on Arthize?

OCR adds a searchable text layer to a scanned PDF, turning a picture of text into words you can select, search, copy and convert. On Arthize it's free with no watermark and processed privately.