Convert Scanned PDF to Searchable Text
Turn image-based PDFs into searchable, editable documents with OCR technology. Convert old scans, photos, and archived PDFs into text you can copy, search, and reuse.
Drop your scanned PDF here
or click to browse files
Supported format: .pdf (scanned documents)
Scanned PDFs look like regular documents, but they are actually images — you cannot select, search, or copy any text. OmnisPDF's OCR converts these image-based PDFs into fully searchable, copyable documents you can work with.
- ✓ Convert scanned PDFs into searchable, selectable text
- ✓ OCR technology reads text from images and photos
- ✓ Multi-language support for international documents
- ✓ Works on Mac, Windows, iOS, Android, and Linux
- ✓ No installation — convert scans in your browser
Convert Old Archives to Searchable Documents
Have boxes of scanned paperwork sitting in PDF form? Convert them into searchable documents so you can find specific information with Ctrl+F instead of scrolling through hundreds of pages manually.
Make Scanned Documents Accessible
Scanned PDFs are not accessible to screen readers or text-to-speech tools. Converting them with OCR adds a text layer, making your documents accessible to people with visual impairments and compliant with accessibility standards.
Prepare Scanned PDFs for Editing
Want to edit a scanned document? First convert it with OCR to make the text selectable, then use OmnisPDF's PDF to Word tool to create an editable document you can modify in Microsoft Word or Google Docs.
How to Convert a Scanned PDF
Upload or drag and drop your scanned PDF into OmnisPDF.
Select the document language and click Run OCR.
Download your searchable PDF or convert it further to Word or TXT.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I convert a scanned PDF to searchable text?
Upload your scanned PDF to OmnisPDF, select the document language, and click Run OCR. OmnisPDF's OCR engine reads the text from the scanned images and produces a searchable, copyable PDF.
What is the quality of OCR conversion?
Conversion quality depends on scan resolution and clarity. High-resolution, well-lit scans produce excellent results. Low-quality scans, handwritten text, or unusual fonts may reduce accuracy.
Can I convert the scanned PDF to an editable Word document?
Yes. First, use OmnisPDF's OCR to make your scanned PDF searchable. Then use the PDF to Word tool to convert it into an editable Word document you can modify freely.
Can I batch convert multiple scanned PDFs?
Batch OCR conversion is available for Pro subscribers. Upload multiple scanned PDFs at once and convert them all to searchable documents with a single click.
Does OCR work on handwritten documents?
OCR works best on printed text. Handwritten documents may produce limited or inaccurate results depending on handwriting clarity. Neatly printed handwriting may work, but cursive is generally not supported.
Can I convert a scanned PDF on my phone?
Yes. OmnisPDF works in mobile browsers — upload your scanned PDF, run OCR conversion, and download the searchable result on iPhone or Android.