Create PDF417 barcodes for documents and IDs

When to use a PDF417 barcode

PDF417 is built for more data than a simple 1D barcode. It appears in forms, IDs, logistics labels and document workflows where the barcode needs to carry a larger text payload.

Reserve space for PDF417

PDF417 can hold more data, but it needs room to stay readable.

• Use it for documents, passes or IDs that expect this format.
• Avoid squeezing the symbol into a small corner.
• Scan a printed sample before using it on forms.

If the data is short, a simpler barcode may scan faster.

Create a PDF417 barcode

1. Enter the document, ID, logistics or form data that should be encoded.
2. Keep the payload structured if a downstream system will parse it.
3. Generate the PDF417 barcode and check the physical size needed for clean scanning.
4. Drop the SVG into the document layout and run print proofs from the PNG or PDF.
5. Scan the printed barcode with the target scanner before using it operationally.

Where PDF417 works

• Document workflows
• ID-style payloads
• Logistics labels with more data

PDF417 data checks

• PDF417 can hold more data, but more data means a larger printed symbol.
• It is useful for document and ID workflows where the scanner expects PDF417.
• Do not use PDF417 just because it looks official. Match the format to the workflow.

PDF417 mistakes to avoid

• Choosing PDF417 for phone-camera marketing scans where a QR code would be more familiar.
• Encoding too much text and then shrinking the symbol to fit a small label.
• Skipping a scanner compatibility check in the real document workflow.

PDF417 barcode questions