Stacked 2D PDF417 barcodes. Everything runs in your browser — no sign-up, no watermark, unlimited downloads.
PDF417 Generator at a glance
- Stacked 2D format, up to roughly 1,850 text characters
- Each row is a linear sequence; rows stack vertically
- Selectable error-correction level 0 to 8
- Encodes text, numbers or raw bytes
How to use the PDF417 Generator
- Enter the data to encode — PDF417 holds far more than a linear barcode.
- Choose the error-correction level based on how much wear the label will take.
- Download and print; keep the aspect ratio so the rows stay readable.
Where it is used
- Driving licences and government identity documents
- Airline boarding passes
- Shipping manifests and inspection paperwork
Frequently asked questions
What does PDF417 stand for?
Portable Data File. The 417 refers to the structure of each codeword: four bars and spaces across 17 modules.
How much can it hold?
Around 1,850 text characters, or roughly 1,100 bytes, depending on the error-correction level chosen.
Why do IDs use PDF417 rather than QR?
It stores a large structured record in a rectangle that fits a card, and the standard predates widespread QR adoption in that sector.