Open a PDF in Acrobat.
Last updated on
Jun 7, 2026
Learn how to edit the properties of layers in a PDF.
Layers help you organize content and control visibility when reviewing or presenting PDFs. Use layer properties to rename layers, set initial visibility, customize print behavior, or group related layers.
Before you begin
Make sure the PDF contains layers.
Access the Layer Properties dialog box to modify visibility, print settings, and default states for PDF layers. Changes apply only when you select Allow layer state to be set by user information in document preferences.
Select Layers from the right-side panel to open the Layers panel.
Tip
If Layers isn’t visible, select Menu > View > Show/Hide > Side panels > Layers.
Select the layer you want to edit in the Layers panel.
Select the Options menu next to the layer name, then select Layer Properties.
Configure the Intent setting. Choose View to toggle the layer on or off, or Reference to keep the layer always visible during editing.
Set the Default State to define initial visibility when the document opens, and configure the Visibility setting to control onscreen display of the layer.
Set the Print option to control how the document prints, and the Export option to determine if the layer appears when exporting the PDF to supported layered formats.
Select OK to apply your changes.
The layer now reflects your property changes. Your changes are saved with the document.
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