How to Scan Documents on iPhone: 5 Fast and Simple Steps

Scanning documents on your iPhone is quick, free, and requires no extra apps. Using the built-in Notes app, you can turn any physical paper (like homework, receipts, or contracts) into a clear, sharable PDF in seconds. Here’s how to scan documents on iPhone:

  1. Open the Notes app → Tap the New Note button.
  2. Tap the Camera/Paperclip icon → Select Scan Documents.
  3. Point your camera at the document → Capture the scan.
  4. Adjust, save, and share your PDF.

Now, let’s break this down step-by-step.

What You’ll Need

  • An iPhone running iOS 11 or later (most iPhones from the last 5 years).
  • The Notes app (pre-installed on all iPhones).
  • A well-lit area to scan your document.

How to Scan Documents on iPhone

Step 1: Open the Notes App and Create a New Note

The Notes app isn’t just for writing reminders—it’s also a powerful scanner. Here’s how to start:

  1. Open the Notes app (it’s yellow with a white notepad icon).
  2. Tap the New Note button at the bottom-right corner (looks like a pencil on paper).

This opens a blank note where your scan will be saved.

Step 2: Start the Document Scanner

Next, access the scanner tool:

  1. In your new note, tap the Camera/Paperclip icon above the keyboard.
    • On iOS 17 or older: This looks like a camera.
    • On iOS 18: It’s a paperclip. Tap it → Select Scan Documents.
  2. Your camera will activate. Point it at the document you want to scan.

Step 3: Capture Your Scan

Your iPhone can scan in Auto mode (recommended) or Manual mode:

Auto Mode Manual Mode
iPhone automatically detects edges and snaps a photo when the document is aligned. Tap the shutter button yourself.
Best for quick scanning. Use if lighting is poor or edges aren’t detected.

Tips for a clear scan:

  • Lay the document on a flat surface.
  • Avoid shadows over the paper.
  • Hold the iPhone parallel to the document.

If the scan looks blurry or crooked, tap Retake.

Step 4: Adjust and Edit Your Scan

After capturing, you can:

  1. Crop the edges: Drag the corners to fit the document perfectly.

  2. Change filters: Tap the Filter icon to switch between:

    • Color (default).
    • Grayscale (black-and-white).
    • Black & White (sharpens text).
    • Photo (keeps original colors).

  3. Add more pages: Tap Scan Again to include multiple pages in one PDF.

Step 5: Save and Share Your Scan

Once done:

  1. Tap Save to store the scan in your note.
  2. To share it:
    • Tap the scan thumbnail → Tap the Share icon.
    • Choose Email, Messages, or Save to Files.

Need to email the PDF? Make sure your email is set up on your iPhone first. Learn how in our guide: How to Add Email to iPhone.

Pro Tips for Better Scans

  1. Use “Find My iPhone” for Security
    If you lose your iPhone, enable Find My iPhone to track or lock it remotely. This keeps your scanned documents safe.

  2. Organize Scans in Folders
    Create folders in the Notes app (e.g., “School Work” or “Receipts”) to keep scans organized.

  3. Scan Hands-Free
    Enable Timer Mode if you need to position the document without holding the iPhone.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Problem: The scanner won’t detect edges.
Fix: Switch to Manual mode and adjust lighting.

Problem: Scanned text looks faded.
Fix: Use the Black & White filter for sharper text.

Problem: Pop-ups block the Notes app.
Fix: Disable them temporarily. Learn how: How to Turn Off Pop-Up Blocker on iPhone.

Why Use the Notes App Instead of Other Scanner Apps?

  • No ads or fees: It’s completely free.
  • Searchable text: Scanned PDFs let you search for words (e.g., “math homework”).
  • iCloud sync: Access scans on your iPad, Mac, or iCloud.com.

For heavy scanning needs (like 50+ pages), apps like Adobe Scan or Scanner Pro offer advanced tools.

FAQ: 5 Common Questions About Scanning Documents on iPhone

Q1: Can I scan documents without using the Notes app?

A: Yes, but the Notes app is the easiest and fastest way to scan documents on iPhone. It’s free, built into your phone, and requires no extra downloads. If you want more features (like password protection or advanced editing), try apps like Documents by Readdle or Scanner Pro.

Q2: Where do my scanned documents save?

A: Scans save directly to the note you created in the Notes app. You can also export them to the Files app or your photo library. To find them later, open Notes and search for keywords like “scan” or “document.”

Q3: Can I edit a scan after saving it?

A: Yes! Tap the scan in your note, then select “Markup” to add text, drawings, or highlights. You can also crop it again or change the color filter (like switching to black-and-white).

Q4: What if I need to scan a textbook or thick book?

A: Press the pages flat as much as possible to avoid shadows. Use Manual Mode (tap the Auto/Manual toggle) to adjust the edges if the iPhone doesn’t detect them automatically.

Q5: Can I share scans with someone who doesn’t have an iPhone?

A: Absolutely! When you share a scan as a PDF, it works on any device—Android phones, Windows computers, or Chromebooks. Just email it or send it through messaging apps like WhatsApp.

Conclusion

Scanning documents on your iPhone is a quick, free, and super useful skill. Whether you’re turning in homework, saving important papers, or organizing recipes, the Notes app makes it easy to create clear, professional-looking scans. Remember:

  • Use Auto Mode for fast scans.
  • Adjust colors and cropping if the scan isn’t perfect.
  • Share your PDFs with anyone, even if they don’t use Apple devices.

Now it’s your turn! Grab a permission slip, a drawing, or a worksheet and practice scanning. The more you use it, the easier it gets.