Get permission to open a file or folder

If you can’t open a file, it could be because:

• You don’t have permission.
• You're signed in to a Google Account that doesn’t have access.
• Someone removed your permission to open the file.

Get permission to open a file

1. On your computer, open the file.
2. On the "You need permission" page, click Request access.
3. Look for an email that says the owner of the file granted you access.

Tip: If you need immediate access, contact the owner of the file and ask them to share it.

Try a different Google Account

If you have more than one Google Account, try to switch accounts to open the file.

1. On your computer, open the file.
2. On the "You need permission" page, click Switch accounts.
3. Sign in with a different Google Account. 
4. Check if you can open the file.

Get more help

If you still can’t open a file or folder, check out the Google Drive forum.