How to Fix PDF Cannot Be Printed Error When Printing is Allowed
Question details
The user is unable to print specific official PDF files, receiving an error message despite the document properties indicating that printing is fully permitted.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat and Reader
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to print official PDF documents for physical use or documentation.
- Observed behavior
- Adobe Acrobat and Reader display a 'The document cannot be printed' error message, while other documents continue to print without any issues.
Ensure your printer is turned on, properly connected to your computer, and has enough paper and ink to rule out basic hardware issues before troubleshooting the software.
Print the PDF as an Image
This is the most effective workaround for bypassing rendering or font processing errors within Adobe Acrobat.
Sometimes a PDF file contains complex formatting, corrupted fonts, or intricate layers that your local printer struggles to interpret. Printing the document as an image forces the software to send a simple picture of the document to the printer, bypassing these complex processing errors.
Open the problematic PDF in Adobe Acrobat or Reader, and click on 'File' > 'Print' to open the printing dialog box.
Click on the 'Advanced' button located near the top right of the Print dialog box.
Check the box that says 'Print As Image'. You can also adjust the resolution settings here if needed.
Click 'OK' to close the Advanced settings window, then click 'Print' to send the document to your printer.
Test on Another Computer to Isolate the Issue
Use this method to determine if the problem lies within the PDF file itself or your specific local software installation.
Re-download the File and Update Software
Applies when the file might have been corrupted during the download process or when using outdated software.
Print PDFs Seamlessly with WPS Office
Bypass Adobe Acrobat errors and easily print your PDF documents using the built-in PDF reader in WPS Office. It's fast, free, and highly compatible with all standard document types.
- 1. Download and Install: Download WPS Office for free from the official website and install it on your computer.
- 2. Open the PDF: Launch WPS Office, click on 'Open', and select the problematic PDF file.
- 3. Print with Ease: Click the 'Print' icon or press Ctrl+P, select your printer, and click 'Print' to successfully output your document.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my PDF properties show printing is allowed, but it still fails to print?
This contradiction usually happens due to internal file corruption, outdated PDF reader software, or complex formatting and fonts embedded in the document that your local printer's memory cannot process correctly.
What should I do if the PDF fails to print on multiple computers?
If the issue persists across different devices and printers, the file itself is likely corrupted or was improperly exported by the creator. You should request a newly generated, flattened copy of the PDF from the original sender or organization.
How does printing a PDF as an image help resolve this error?
Printing as an image forces the PDF reader to send a simple rasterized picture of the document to the printer. This bypasses any complicated font rendering or layering issues that typically trigger the 'cannot be printed' error.
