To save a Google Doc as a PDF on your phone, open the document in the Google Docs app, tap the three-dot More menu, and choose Share & export. On Android, tap Save as > PDF document > OK to save a PDF copy to Google Drive. On iPhone or iPad, tap Send a copy > PDF > OK, then choose Save to Files or share it directly.
Save as PDF on iPhone or iPad
- Open the document in the Google Docs app.
- Tap the three dots (More) in the top-right corner.
- Tap Share & export > Send a copy.
- Select PDF and tap OK.
- In the share sheet, tap Save to Files and choose a folder, or send it by Mail, Messages, or another app.
Save as PDF on Android
- Open the document in Google Docs.
- Tap the three dots > Share & export.
- Tap Save as, choose PDF document, and tap OK.
A PDF copy opens and is saved in the same Google Drive folder as the original. To keep it on your phone, open it in Drive, tap the three dots, and choose Download.
To email it right away, choose Send a copy > PDF instead of Save as.
Alternative: Print to PDF
- Android: Tap the three dots > Share & export > Print, choose Save as PDF as the printer, and tap the PDF button.
- iPhone: Tap the three dots > Share & export > Print, then use the share button in the print preview to save or send the PDF.
Save as PDF on a computer
Click File > Download > PDF document (.pdf). The file goes to your Downloads folder.
Tips
- Links, headings, and images carry over to the PDF.
- Comments and suggested edits aren’t included. Accept or reject suggestions first.
- Check Page setup for paper size and margins before exporting.
Frequently asked questions
Where did my PDF go on Android?
If you used Save as, it’s in Google Drive in the same folder as the original document.
Can I save a Google Doc as a PDF offline?
Exporting needs an internet connection. Make the document available offline for editing, then export when you’re back online.
Why don’t I see Share & export?
Update the Google Docs app. Older versions list Share & export options under the three-dot menu with slightly different names.
Can I save as Word instead?
Yes. In Send a copy or Save as, choose Word (.docx).
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.