How to Print PDF Files in Java

Printing PDFs programmatically from Java applications allows you to automate document handling and seamlessly integrate printing functionality. With IronPDF for Java, you can send PDFs directly to a physical printer, providing precise control over print settings such as copies, page ranges, and more. This guide demonstrates how to use IronPDF’s features to streamline printing tasks within your Java applications.

Print PDF

The first step is to load the PDF document you want to print. The print method opens the standard print dialog, allowing you to select the printer, page range, and other options before printing. Here's an example:

import com.ironsoftware.ironpdf.License;
import com.ironsoftware.ironpdf.PdfDocument;

// Set the license key for IronPDF
License.setLicenseKey("IRONPDF-MYLICENSE-KEY-1EF01");

// Render HTML to a PDF document
PdfDocument pdf = PdfDocument.renderHtmlAsPdf("<h1>testing</h1>");

// Print the PDF with a print dialog for user interaction
pdf.print();
import com.ironsoftware.ironpdf.License;
import com.ironsoftware.ironpdf.PdfDocument;

// Set the license key for IronPDF
License.setLicenseKey("IRONPDF-MYLICENSE-KEY-1EF01");

// Render HTML to a PDF document
PdfDocument pdf = PdfDocument.renderHtmlAsPdf("<h1>testing</h1>");

// Print the PDF with a print dialog for user interaction
pdf.print();
JAVA

You will be prompted with a print dialog to select the printer and options, as shown below.

Print Dialog


Print PDF without the Print Dialog

The printWithoutDialog method bypasses the print dialog and sends the document straight to the default printer. This is useful in automation scenarios where no user interaction is needed.

import com.ironsoftware.ironpdf.License;
import com.ironsoftware.ironpdf.PdfDocument;

// Set the license key for IronPDF
License.setLicenseKey("IRONPDF-MYLICENSE-KEY-1EF01");

// Render HTML to a PDF document
PdfDocument pdf = PdfDocument.renderHtmlAsPdf("<h1>testing</h1>");

// Print the PDF directly without showing a print dialog
pdf.printWithoutDialog();
import com.ironsoftware.ironpdf.License;
import com.ironsoftware.ironpdf.PdfDocument;

// Set the license key for IronPDF
License.setLicenseKey("IRONPDF-MYLICENSE-KEY-1EF01");

// Render HTML to a PDF document
PdfDocument pdf = PdfDocument.renderHtmlAsPdf("<h1>testing</h1>");

// Print the PDF directly without showing a print dialog
pdf.printWithoutDialog();
JAVA

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I print a PDF file in Java using IronPDF?

To print a PDF file in Java using IronPDF, first install the IronPDF library, load an existing PDF or create a new one, and then use the print method to open a print dialog or printWithoutDialog method to print directly.

What is the IronPDF library for Java?

IronPDF for Java is a library that allows you to manage and manipulate PDF documents, including rendering HTML as PDF, merging documents, and printing PDFs to physical printers.

How can I print a PDF file without showing a print dialog in Java?

Use the printWithoutDialog method provided by IronPDF for Java to send a PDF directly to the default printer without displaying a print dialog.

What are the prerequisites for using IronPDF to print a PDF in Java?

You need to install the IronPDF library and set a valid license key. Additionally, ensure your Java environment is properly configured to use external libraries.

Can I control print settings like page range using IronPDF in Java?

Yes, when using the print method, a print dialog will appear allowing you to select various print settings such as printer selection, page range, and number of copies.

Is it possible to automate PDF printing in Java applications?

Yes, using IronPDF for Java, you can automate PDF printing by using the printWithoutDialog method to send documents directly to a printer without user interaction.

How do I install the IronPDF library in my Java project?

To install IronPDF, download the library from the official website and include it in your Java project’s classpath. You can also follow the installation instructions provided in the library documentation.

What is the purpose of setting a license key in IronPDF?

Setting a license key in IronPDF unlocks the full capabilities of the library and removes any limitations associated with the trial version.

Darrius Serrant
Full Stack Software Engineer (WebOps)

Darrius Serrant holds a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from the University of Miami and works as a Full Stack WebOps Marketing Engineer at Iron Software. Drawn to coding from a young age, he saw computing as both mysterious and accessible, making it the perfect medium for creativity and problem-solving.

At Iron Software, Darrius enjoys creating new things and simplifying complex concepts to make them more understandable. As one of our resident developers, he has also volunteered to teach students, sharing his expertise with the next generation.

For Darrius, his work is fulfilling because it is valued and has a real impact.

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