Fix "PDF Does Not Print" Issues on Windows

Jun. 26, 2025 / Updated by Seraphina to Windows 10

fix-pdf-does-not-print-issues

Many Windows users encounter issues when printing PDF files—such as no response after clicking "Print", documents stuck in the queue, or error messages like "Print Failed".

This article explains the common causes and offers practical solutions to help you fix PDF printing problems on Windows.

1. Common Symptoms of PDF Printing Issues

Clicking "Print" in a PDF file results in no response
PDF appears in the print queue but doesn't print
System displays messages like "Print Failed" or "Cannot connect to printer"
Some PDFs print correctly, others do not
Printed pages come out blank or with garbled text

2. Main Causes of PDF Printing Failure

Damaged or outdated printer drivers
PDF reader misconfiguration or outdated version
Corrupted or protected PDF file
Print queue is stuck or background services are unresponsive
Insufficient system permissions or incorrect default printer settings

3. How to Fix PDF Printing Issues

Method 1: Check Printer Connection

Ensure your printer is properly connected and powered on.

Press Win + I, go to Settings > Devices > Printers & Scanners.

Make sure the correct default printer is selected.

Try printing a Word document or image to confirm the printer works.

Method 2: Update Printer Drivers

Driver issues are a common cause of PDF printing errors. If you're unfamiliar with manually installing drivers, consider using Driver Talent—a tool that automatically detects and updates drivers to prevent mistakes.

Download Driver Talent

Download and install the latest version of Driver Talent.
Open the software and click "Scan" to detect driver status.
Find your printer in the scan results and click "Update".

driver-update

Restart your computer after updating to apply changes.

Method 3: Try a Different PDF Reader

Some built-in PDF viewers (like Microsoft Edge) may have compatibility issues with complex PDFs.

Try using another reader like Adobe Acrobat Reader or Foxit Reader.

Ensure correct paper size and orientation settings are selected.

Method 4: Use a Virtual PDF Printer

Re-printing the PDF as a new file can help:

Open the PDF and choose "Print".
Select "Microsoft Print to PDF" or "Adobe PDF" as the printer.

use-a-virtual-pdf-printer

Save the new PDF and try printing it again.

Method 5: Restart the Print Spooler Service

Press Win + R, type "services.msc", and hit Enter.

Locate "Print Spooler", right-click it, and select "Restart".

restart-the-print-spooler-service

Go to C:\Windows\System32\spool\PRINTERS and clear all files.

Reboot the computer and try printing again.

Method 6: Convert or Re-Save the PDF

If a specific PDF won't print:

Use Adobe Acrobat or an online tool to convert the PDF to an image (JPG/PNG) and print it.
Alternatively, save the PDF as a new file and try printing the new version.