How to Edit a PDF on iPhone & iPad Using the Files App

Learning how to use the Files app on iPhone and iPad will make it easy for you to create, edit, and sign PDFs directly on your handheld device! The Files app is native to your iPhone and iPad, and you can use it to edit existing PDF documents, fill them out, and mark them up.

Jump To:

• How to Edit PDF Files on iPhone & iPad
• How to Sign PDF on iPhone & iPad
• How to Use Files App on iPhone & iPad 101

How to Edit PDF Files on iPhone& iPad

What is the Files app on iPhone? It is Apple's file management app. Files lets you access all your files, even those from third-party apps such as Google Drive, across your devices. The quickest way to edit a PDF on your iPhone or iPad is by using the Files app.

1. Open Files app.
   
   
    
2. Tap on the PDF you want to edit.
   
   
    
3. Tap the Markup icon.
   
   
    
4. You’ll be able to draw, scribble, and highlight anywhere on the document by tapping on the various markers.
   
   
    
5. Tap the plus icon.
   
   
    
6. Here you can add a signature, text, magnifier, and shapes.
   
   

Now you know how to edit a PDF using Files. For more tips on how to use Markup on your images and documents, read this. To discover even more ways to use your iPhone, sign up for our free Tip of the Day newsletter.

How to Sign PDF on iPhone & iPad

Did you know that e-signatures are often accepted on official documents so that you can tap a few buttons to save you time printing, signing, scanning, and re-sending documents? The first time you do this, you will have to add a new signature. You can have several saved signatures that you then add by tapping the plus button, then placing and sizing the signature as needed on the document.

How to Use Files App on iPhone & iPad 101

Files app comes pre-installed on your device and is the easiest way to edit a PDF on iPhones and iPads.

How to Fill Out PDF on iPhone & iPad

There are third-party apps such as PDF Expert (free with subscription options) that can help you fill out forms. However, you can also use the text function or write it with one of the marks mentioned in the how to edit a PDF section. This can be more time-consuming, but it can be done for free using the native Files app!

Where Is the Files App on iPhone & iPad

Where is the Files app on my iPhone or iPad? It may be on one of your Home screens or your App Library. The quickest way to find it is using Spotlight search or in the App Store. Simply find the PDF in the Files app and tap to open it.

How to Open PDF on iPhone & iPad

Unless you are using an app that allows you to open a PDF within it, such as Google Drive, you will need to save the PDF to the Files app.

Pro Tip: Before you can open and edit a PDF, you need to have a PDF document on your device. Read this to learn how to download a PDF document or convert a file from your iPhone or iPad. 

Now you know how to use Files app on iPad and iPhone! Use it to edit PDFs, sign documents, and make other changes to PDFs. Next, learn how to browse your iCloud files using the Files app and how to use Enhanced AutoFill on iPadOS 17.