Is there a way to unlock PDF documents?

I realize most PDF documents are locked for a reason, but I spend several hours a week editing datasheets provided directly from my vendors to be sent to customers. Obviously it's very annoying and somewhat of a show-stopper when I download a datasheet in PDF format, then I am not able to draw boxes, add comments, or draw arrows to the supplied product.

One of our vendors told us the way around that was to print a physical copy, then scan it in as a PDF - not the most technological or aesthetically pleasing solution I have found.

I at least would like to be able to print the PDF to another PDF so that the new copy is unlocked for editing. Is there any way around this?

I know this might not the solution you're looking for, but I'll try my luck...Okular has the option to ignore any DRM-Settings of a PDF-File.

Assuming that you know the Password to the PDF, the most simplest method would be:

• Open the PDF in a Browser by putting in pwd (like Chrome or any application that can read it natively and can print it as well)
• Print the document (CTRL + P or Cmd + P, usually). But in the Print dialog, choose to Save as PDF, instead of actually printing

Done.

PDFTK can help you create shell commands as a Service, or a Workflow in Automator in Advanced OSs like Mac, so that you just right click a PDF and say "Unlock this PDF"

Refer this SO question for above

There is a piece of software called PDF reDirect that allows you to create PDF documents from just about any program that can print. The software installs a printer called "PDF reDirect" on your computer and when you want to use the software you print the document to that printer. Perhaps you can print the document to that software and then you can resave it after that without the DRM.

I have never tried this before, just a thought.