Select All tools > Protect a PDF, then select Manage security policies under ADVANCED OPTIONS.
Last updated on
Jun 7, 2026
Learn how to create a password security policy and apply consistent security across multiple PDFs.
Password security policies let you define password and permission settings once. You can store these settings as a policy and reuse them across multiple PDFs, reducing manual effort and ensuring consistent protection.
Create a password security policy
Select New in the dialog box that opens, select Use passwords, and then select Next.
Type a descriptive name and optional description for the policy.
Select Save passwords with the policy to store passwords and restriction settings.
Select Next to continue. The Password Security - Settings dialog box opens.
Configure the document open and permissions passwords, then set the allowed printing and editing options.
Select a compatible Acrobat version from the Compatibility dropdown menu, then select OK to save your password configuration.
Review the policy summary, then select Finish.
The password policy is saved and appears in the list of available security policies.
Apply a password security policy to a PDF
Open the PDF you want to protect.
Select All tools > Protect a PDF > Manage security policies.
Select the password policy you want to use.
Select Apply to Document.
Save the PDF to apply the policy.
Work smarter with Acrobat on your desktop
Create, edit, and organize PDFs with powerful tools that help you stay productive anywhere.
