How to Generate a PDF417 Barcode (Free, Step by Step)

PDF417 is a stacked 2D barcode that holds a lot of data — up to ~1.1 KB — which is why it shows up on shipping labels, boarding passes, inventory tags, and forms. This guide shows you how to generate a clean, scannable PDF417 barcode in a couple of minutes, and which settings actually affect whether it scans.

Generate one now: open the free PDF417 generator — no signup required.

Step 1 — Enter your data

Type or paste the text you want to encode. PDF417 handles letters, numbers, and binary data. Keep it to what you actually need: more data means a physically larger barcode, which needs more print space to stay scannable.

Step 2 — Choose the settings that matter

A few parameters decide whether your barcode scans on the first try:

• Columns — how wide the symbol is. More columns = wider, shorter barcode; fewer columns = narrower, taller. Pick what fits your label.
• Error correction level (0–8) — higher levels add redundancy so the code still scans if it's smudged or partially damaged. Level 2–5 is a good default for print; go higher for rough handling, lower only when space is tight.
• Module width — the width of the smallest bar, in pixels. Bigger = easier to scan but larger output. Don't go below your printer's reliable resolution.
• Row height — taller rows are more forgiving for handheld scanners.
• Quiet zone (padding) — the blank margin around the barcode. Don't skip this. A too-small quiet zone is the #1 reason a barcode won't scan.

Step 3 — Pick colors (and transparency if you need it)

Black on white scans best. If you're placing the barcode on a colored label, use a transparent background and keep high contrast between the bars and whatever's behind them. Low contrast is the #2 reason scans fail.

Step 4 — Download and test

Export the PNG and — this matters — scan the printed output, not just the screen. Print at the real size, scan with the device your users will use, and confirm it reads before you commit to a print run.

Generating PDF417 barcodes at scale (API)

If you need barcodes generated from your own app, the same controls are available over a JSON API:

POST /api/generate { "payload": "YOUR-DATA", "columns": 6, "errorCorrection": 4, "moduleWidth": 3 }

The response is a base64 PNG plus metadata. See the API docs for the full parameter list and rate limits.

Common questions

Why won't my PDF417 scan? Almost always one of: quiet zone too small, contrast too low, printed too small for the module width, or error correction too low for a damaged surface.

How much data can it hold? Up to roughly 1,100 bytes, but smaller payloads scan more reliably at a given print size.

Can I generate a driver's license or ID barcode? No — this tool is for lawful barcode generation and validation. It does not produce official credential or ID payloads.

Generate yours now

Open the free PDF417 generator → — tune the settings above, download a print-ready PNG, and scan-test before you print.