can you create a fillable pdf in adobe reader dc

April 30, 2025 4 min read

Adobe Reader DC is a widely used tool for viewing, signing, and annotating PDF documents. Many users wonder, "can you create a fillable pdf in adobe reader dc?" The answer is nuanced: while Adobe Reader DC allows you to fill in existing fillable PDF forms, it does not natively allow you to create fillable forms from scratch or edit existing non-fillable PDFs into fillable ones. This functionality is reserved for Adobe Acrobat Pro DC, a paid subscription service.

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Limitations of Adobe Reader DC

Adobe Reader DC offers excellent features for interacting with PDFs. You can open, view, and print PDF documents with ease. Filling in forms is also a key feature, where you can type into pre-defined fields and save the data. However, creating those pre-defined fillable fields is where Adobe Reader DC falls short. You cannot add text fields, checkboxes, or signature fields to a regular PDF using Adobe Reader DC alone.

Creating Fillable PDFs: Adobe Acrobat Pro DC

To create fillable PDFs using Adobe's suite of products, you need Adobe Acrobat Pro DC. This paid software provides the necessary tools to add interactive form fields. With Acrobat Pro DC, you can convert existing documents (like Word files or scanned images) into fillable PDFs. The software offers features like automatic form field detection, making the process more efficient. Learn more about the differences in creating fillable forms with Acrobat Pro DC.

Alternative Solutions: Breeze PDF

If you need a simple and free solution for creating fillable PDFs, Breeze PDF offers an excellent alternative. Breeze PDF allows you to add input boxes, text, signatures, and images to any PDF document directly in your browser. A great feature is that it operates 100% privately, meaning your documents never leave your device. You don't need to sign up or download anything; it's all done online.

How to Create a Fillable PDF with Breeze PDF

Creating fillable PDFs with Breeze PDF is straightforward. Simply upload your PDF to the Breeze PDF editor. Then, use the input box icon to add fillable fields wherever you need them. Drag and resize the input boxes to fit your layout. You can also add text, signatures, and images to further customize your form.

Breeze PDF also provides functionalities like: Typing on the PDF by using the letter icon to add and drag text around, signing PDFs using the scribble icon to draw and insert signatures, and adding images with the image icon and password protecting them with the lock icon. Furthermore, you can merge PDFs and delete PDF pages if needed. All these features are available without any cost.

Key Features of Breeze PDF

  • Add Input Boxes: Easily insert fillable fields into your PDF documents.
  • Type on PDF: Add text anywhere on your document with customizable font size and color.
  • Sign PDFs: Create and insert your signature with a simple drawing tool.
  • Add Images: Enhance your forms with logos, photos, or other visual elements.
  • Password Protection: Secure your PDF with a password to prevent unauthorized access. You can also explore options to add fillable boxes to your PDFs.

Privacy and Security with Breeze PDF

One of the most significant advantages of Breeze PDF is its commitment to privacy. Unlike many online PDF editors, Breeze PDF processes your documents entirely within your browser. Your files are never uploaded to a server, ensuring that your sensitive information remains secure. This makes it a great alternative to online PDF form makers, where you risk your privacy.

Conclusion

While Adobe Reader DC is excellent for filling out existing forms, it does not allow you to create fillable PDFs. Adobe Acrobat Pro DC is required for that functionality within the Adobe ecosystem. However, if you're looking for a free, easy-to-use, and private alternative, Breeze PDF offers a compelling solution. You can create fillable forms directly in your browser without any downloads or sign-ups. This makes Breeze PDF a great choice for quickly creating and sharing fillable documents.