How to scan documents with Google Drive

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

Scanning documents with Google Drive can be accomplished using the Google Drive mobile app or through the web interface. Both methods allow users to create PDF files from physical documents quickly and efficiently.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before scanning documents with Google Drive, ensure you have the following:
  • •A smartphone or tablet with the Google Drive app installed (iOS 12.0 or later, Android 6.0 or later).
  • •A stable internet connection to upload scanned documents to your Google Drive account.
  • •Sufficient storage space in your Google Drive account.
  • •Permissions to access the camera on your mobile device.
  • •Optional: A Google account to access Google Drive.

Method 1: Scanning Documents Using the Google Drive Mobile App

This method is ideal for users who want to scan documents on-the-go using their mobile devices.
  • •Step 1: Open the Google Drive app on your mobile device.
  • •Step 2: Tap the '+' button located at the bottom right corner of the screen.
  • •Step 3: Select 'Scan' from the menu options.
  • •Step 4: Position your document within the camera frame and tap the shutter button to capture the image.
  • •Step 5: Adjust the cropping if necessary, then tap 'OK' to confirm.
  • •Step 6: Add any additional pages by tapping the '+' button again, or tap 'Save' to finish.
  • •Step 7: Verify the scan by navigating to the folder where it was saved in Google Drive.

For Windows 11

While scanning is primarily done through the mobile app, users can also access Google Drive via a web browser on Windows 11.
  • •Open a web browser and navigate to drive.google.com.
  • •Click on the '+ New' button on the left sidebar.
  • •Select 'File upload' to upload scanned documents from your computer.

For Windows 10

Similar to Windows 11, users can access Google Drive through a web browser.
  • •Open a web browser and go to drive.google.com.
  • •Click on the '+ New' button on the left sidebar.
  • •Select 'File upload' to upload scanned documents from your computer.

Method 2: Scanning Documents Using Google Drive on Desktop

This method is suitable for users who prefer to scan documents using a traditional scanner and then upload them to Google Drive.
  • •Step 1: Use your scanner software to scan the document and save it as a PDF or image file.
  • •Step 2: Open a web browser and go to drive.google.com.
  • •Step 3: Click on the '+ New' button on the left sidebar.
  • •Step 4: Select 'File upload' and navigate to the location where you saved the scanned document.
  • •Step 5: Click 'Open' to upload the document to your Google Drive.
  • •Step 6: Verify the upload by checking the folder where you saved the file.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while scanning documents, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Unable to access camera' - Solution: Check app permissions in your device settings and ensure the camera is not being used by another app.
  • •Issue: 'Scan quality is poor' - Fix: Ensure proper lighting and avoid shadows on the document while scanning.
  • •Problem: 'Upload failed' - Workaround: Check your internet connection and ensure you have enough storage space in your Google Drive.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your scanning experience with these tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + Shift + N - Create a new folder in Google Drive for better organization.
  • •Command line: Use Google Drive's API for automated document uploads if you're familiar with programming.
  • •Hidden feature: Use the 'Scan' feature to create multi-page PDFs by tapping the '+' button after each page.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best scanning results, use a flatbed scanner for high-quality documents and ensure your Google Drive is regularly organized.