How to Use Microsoft Print to PDF in Windows
Microsoft Print to PDF creates PDF files from any application in Windows 11 and older versions.
It’s a built-in virtual printer that converts documents into portable document format (PDF) files instead of printing them to paper.
You use this tool whenever you need to save a document in a universally compatible format, perfect for sharing or archiving. PDF ensures your document looks the same on any device.
Once you choose to “print” to PDF, Windows saves the file directly to your computer, ready for you to email, store, or share.
Open your document, select File, then Print. Choose Microsoft Print to PDF from the printer list and click Print. Select a save location and file name, then click Save to create your PDF.
How to Print to PDF
- Open the file or document you want to save.
- Go to the File menu and select Print.
- In the printer list, select Microsoft Print to PDF.
- Click the Print button.
Microsoft Print to PDF lets you save any document as a PDF file right from your computer, no extra software needed. To use Microsoft Print to PDF, just open the file you want to convert, then go to the File menu and choose Print. In the printer options, select ‘Microsoft Print to PDF’ and click Print to save your document as a PDF.
Your document is now saved as a PDF in the folder you selected.
Troubleshooting: Why is Microsoft Print to PDF missing?
If you can’t find Microsoft Print to PDF when you try to print, it’s likely turned off in your Windows settings. Don’t worry, it’s easy to turn back on. You’ll need administrator rights to check this feature. Just search for ‘Turn Windows features on or off’, find ‘Microsoft Print to PDF’ in the list, and make sure the box next to it is checked.
[Requires Admin Privileges]
- Press the Windows key and type Turn Windows features on or off.
- Find Microsoft Print to PDF in the list.
- Uncheck it, click OK, and restart your computer.
- Repeat the steps to check the box again to reinstall the driver.
Advanced Registry and Driver Fixes
If checking Windows features didn’t bring back Microsoft Print to PDF, there are a couple of more advanced ways to fix it. You can check if the print spooler service is running correctly, or use special commands in Windows to repair or reinstall the Microsoft Print to PDF driver. These steps can help if the printer driver itself has become corrupted or is not properly installed.
Check the printer status via Command Prompt:
dism /Online /Get-FeatureInfo /FeatureName:Printing-PrintToPDF-Features
If the printer is missing entirely, use this command to add it back:
dism /Online /Enable-Feature /FeatureName:Printing-PrintToPDF-Features
You can also check the registry path at 🗝️HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Print\Printers to ensure the driver is registered correctly.
Microsoft Print to PDF vs. Save as PDF
Summary
Microsoft Print to PDF is a handy, free tool that lets you easily turn any file into a PDF document for better management.
Is Microsoft Print to PDF free?
Yes, Microsoft Print to PDF is a completely free, built-in feature of the Windows operating system. You do not need to download any extra software or pay for a subscription to use this virtual printer driver to convert your documents into professional PDF files.
How do I fix Microsoft Print to PDF showing as offline?
If the printer shows as offline, open the Services app, find the Print Spooler service, and restart it. You should also check the Device Manager to ensure the virtual printer driver is not showing any yellow warning icons. If issues persist, reinstall the feature via Windows Features.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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