Renumber pages in PDFs

Last updated on Aug 16, 2025

Learn how to update or customize page numbers in your PDF to match the document’s structure and improve navigation.

The page numbers shown in thumbnails and the navigation toolbar may not match the printed numbers on the document. Page numbers are added sequentially by default, starting with 1, but PDFs often include front matter, like a cover page or table of contents.

To match the displayed page numbers with your document’s structure, use Roman numerals for introductory pages, standard numbers for body pages, and add prefixes for chapter-based numbering. For example, 1-1, 1-2 for Chapter 1 and 2-1, 2-2 for Chapter 2.

Adobe Acrobat deeplink

Try it in the app
Rearrange the pages in your PDF in a few simple steps.

Select All tools > Organize pages > Page labels.

In the Page labels dialog box that opens, specify a page range.

Choose one of the following options:

  • Begin new section: Start a new numbering sequence. Choose a style and enter the starting number and optionally add a prefix.
  • Extend numbering used in preceding section to selected pages: Continue numbering from previous pages without resetting the sequence.
The Organize pages panel shows the Page labels dialog with options to begin a new section or extend the numbering used in the preceding section.
Customize PDF page numbering by starting a new sequence, extending it, or continuing from previous pages.

Select OK to apply.

Note

The Page labels tool only changes the labels shown in thumbnails and page navigation; it doesn’t add visible page numbers. To display page numbers on the document itself, use the Header and footer tool.