Add Page Numbers to a Scanned PDF
Scanned documents almost never come with page numbers, because the original paper did not have them or the scanner dropped them at the edge. When you scan a stack of receipts, a signed agreement, or a set of records into a single PDF, adding numbers afterwards makes the file far easier to reference and keeps a printed copy in order. FixTools does this without touching the scan itself. It draws a small number on top of each scanned page in the position and format you choose, then hands back the file. Because a scanned page is an image, the tool simply stamps the number over it, so the scan stays exactly as sharp as it was and nothing is re-compressed. The whole thing runs in your browser with pdf-lib, so the document is never uploaded, which matters when scans often hold sensitive information. Choose the file, pick a bottom position and format, and download the numbered copy.
- Cost
- Free tier
- Sign-up
- Not required
- Processing
- Tool-specific
- Privacy
- Clearly disclosed
Numbers drawn on top without altering the scan
The scan is not re-compressed, so quality is kept
Works on image-only scanned PDFs
PDF Tool
Add Page Numbers
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How numbering a scan differs from numbering a text PDF
A scanned PDF is really a stack of page images. There is no selectable text underneath, just a picture of each sheet, which is why a scan cannot renumber itself the way a word processor document can. The number has to be added on top after the fact, and that is exactly what this tool does. It treats each scanned page as a canvas and draws a small, clean number in the spot you pick.
The important part is that the tool does not re-render or re-compress the scan. It leaves the original image exactly as it is and only adds the number as a new element on the page, so a crisp scan stays crisp and a large one does not balloon further. If the scan is heavier than you want after numbering, run it through the compressor as a separate step. And because everything happens in the browser, a scanned contract or a set of personal records never leaves your device, which is often the whole point when the contents are private.
How to use this tool
Upload your scanned PDF, choose a bottom position and a number format, then click Add Page Numbers. The tool stamps a number over each scanned page without changing the image.
How It Works
Step-by-step guide to add page numbers to a scanned pdf:
- 1
Open the tool
Launch FixTools Add Page Numbers in your browser. Nothing to install.
- 2
Upload the scanned PDF
Pick your scanned document. The tool reads it locally and shows how many pages it holds.
- 3
Choose position and format
Select bottom center, right, or left, and choose plain numbers or "Page 1 of N".
- 4
Stamp the numbers
Click Add Page Numbers. The tool draws a number over each scanned page without changing the image.
- 5
Download the numbered copy
Save the file. The scan is untouched and each page now carries a number.
Real-world examples
Common situations where this approach makes a real difference:
Signed agreement
Someone scans a signed multi-page agreement and numbers it so both parties can reference clauses by page.
Expense receipts
A worker scans a month of receipts into one PDF and numbers them for an expense claim.
Archived records
A small office numbers scanned records before filing them so pages stay in order.
Handwritten notes
A student scans handwritten lecture notes and numbers the pages to keep them sequenced.
Pro tips
Get better results with these expert suggestions:
Straighten pages first
If a scan came in sideways, rotate it before numbering so the number lands the right way up.
Merge scans before numbering
Combine separate scans into one PDF first, so the numbers run continuously across the whole set.
Pick a clear corner
On a busy scan, a bottom corner keeps the number away from stamps, signatures, or dense text.
Compress afterwards if needed
Scans can be large, so compress the numbered file separately if it must fit an upload limit.
Frequently asked questions
Related guides
More use-case guides for the same tool:
Related tools
Other tools you might find useful:
PDF Merger
Combine several scans into one file before numbering them.
PDF Rotator
Straighten sideways scanned pages before numbering.
PDF Compressor
Reduce the size of a heavy scanned PDF after numbering.
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Ready to get started?
Open Add Page Numbers to review its free limits and processing method.
Open Add Page Numbers →Free tier · No account needed · Transparent limits