How to Fix 'The Document Could Not Be Printed' Error in Acrobat XI
Question details
The user is unable to print PDF documents using Adobe Acrobat XI and needs a solution to resolve the printing failure.
- Product
- Adobe Acrobat XI
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to print a PDF file using physical or virtual printers in Acrobat XI.
- Observed behavior
- The application displays 'The document could not be printed' error, even though printing works successfully in other software like Adobe Reader and Acrobat DC.
Ensure your printer is properly connected, turned on, and has the latest drivers installed. Because Acrobat XI is an older software version, try opening and printing the file in an alternative PDF reader to confirm the document itself is not corrupted.
Use the 'Print as Image' Option
Bypass complex rendering errors by sending the PDF to the printer as a simple image file.
PDFs containing complex vectors, embedded fonts, or layering can sometimes overwhelm older PDF processors or printer memory. Using the 'Print as Image' feature rasterizes the document before printing, which reliably bypasses most data processing errors.
Launch Adobe Acrobat XI, open your PDF file, and click on 'File' > 'Print' from the top menu.
In the Print dialog box, locate and click the 'Advanced' button near the top of the window.
Check the box next to 'Print As Image'. You can leave the default resolution settings as they are, then click 'OK'.
Click the 'Print' button to send the rasterized document to your printer and verify if the error is resolved.
Repair the Acrobat XI Installation
Fix missing or corrupted program files that might be causing the application to fail during the printing process.
Install the Latest Point Update
Apply the final available patches for Acrobat XI to resolve known software bugs related to printing.
Print and Edit PDFs Seamlessly with WPS Office
Avoid outdated software errors by using the built-in WPS PDF tool. It offers fast, error-free printing, seamless viewing, and comprehensive editing features in one lightweight application.
- 1. Open Your PDF: Download and launch WPS Office, then open your PDF document using the WPS PDF viewer.
- 2. Access Print Settings: Click on the 'Print' icon on the top toolbar or press the 'Ctrl + P' keyboard shortcut.
- 3. Configure and Print: Select your active printer from the drop-down list, adjust page sizing and orientation if needed, and click 'Print'.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Acrobat XI say 'The document could not be printed'?
This error in Acrobat XI is typically caused by outdated software bugs, corrupted PDF data, or compatibility conflicts with modern printer drivers. Because the software is no longer updated, these bugs remain unpatched.
What does 'Print as Image' actually do?
'Print as Image' converts the entire PDF page into a single picture before sending it to the printer. This bypasses complex font processing or vector rendering errors that usually cause print failures.
Is Adobe Acrobat XI still supported?
No, Adobe officially ended all support and security updates for Acrobat XI in October 2017. Transitioning to a newer PDF editor like WPS Office is recommended for continued security and hardware compatibility.
Can corrupted fonts cause PDF printing errors?
Yes, if a PDF uses embedded fonts that your printer's memory cannot process correctly, it may throw a printing error. Printing the document as an image usually resolves font-related print failures.
