How to Scan Documents Using Google Drive on Android

Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
Android 15 - Google Pixel 9
You will need
Android device, Google Drive app, stable internet connection

Step by step

  1. 15 sec

    Open the Google Drive app

    Locate and tap the Google Drive icon on your home screen or in your app drawer. Ensure you are signed into the correct Google account where you want the document saved.

    Note: If you do not have the app, install it from the Google Play Store.
  2. 10 sec

    Access the scanner tool

    Tap the '+' (Plus) button located in the bottom-right corner of the screen. Select 'Scan' from the pop-up menu to activate your device's camera interface.

  3. 30 sec

    Frame and photograph the document

    Position your document on a flat, well-lit surface with a contrasting background. Align the edges of the paper within the camera frame and tap the shutter button to capture the image.

    Note: Ensure the document is laid flat to avoid perspective distortion.
  4. 45 sec

    Refine the scan quality

    Tap 'Adjust' to crop the edges manually if the automatic selection is imprecise. Use the color palette icon to switch between Grayscale, Color, or Black and White filters for better legibility.

    Note: Select 'Done' once the image clarity meets your requirements.
  5. 30 sec

    Add multiple pages

    If your document consists of multiple pages, tap the '+' (Plus) icon in the lower-left corner to continue scanning. Repeat the capturing process until all pages are added to the single PDF file.

  6. 20 sec

    Name and upload the file

    Tap the 'Save' button. Rename your document using a descriptive title and select the target folder within your Google Drive. Tap 'Save' again to finalize the upload to the cloud.

    Note: Files default to PDF format for universal compatibility.