How much data fits in a PDF417?

In theory up to roughly 1,800 text characters per symbol. In practice you keep it shorter, because the symbol grows wide quickly and becomes harder to print and scan.

Why PDF417 instead of a QR code?

Usually because a standard or authority requires it, as with driving licences. PDF417 is also rectangular, which fits the narrow strip on a document or ticket better.

Can I create a valid ID or licence here?

No. You can generate the symbology, but official documents require a mandated data structure plus physical security features. Use this tool for your own forms, tickets and internal documents.

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PDF417 generator

Lots of text in one symbol — for documents and tickets.

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PDF417

PDF417 is a stacked 2D symbology that holds hundreds of characters, far more than a linear barcode. You know it from driving licences, ID cards, boarding passes and shipping paperwork. The name describes its structure: each codeword uses 4 bars and 17 modules.

Room for hundreds of characters in a single symbol
Used on driving licences, boarding passes and forms
Keeps reading when partially damaged

Frequently asked questions

All barcode types

EAN-13Enter 12 digits — we calculate the check digit for you.EAN-8Enter 7 digits, the check digit is added automatically.UPC-AEnter 11 digits for a valid 12-digit UPC-A.UPC-EEnter 7 or 8 digits — the compact form of UPC-A.ITF-14For cases, trays and trade units (14 digits).GS1-128With Application Identifiers, e.g. (01)(17)(10).ISBNEnter your ISBN with dashes, for example 978-90-274-3964.ISSNFormat XXXX-XXXX, for example 0317-8471.Code 128Letters, digits and symbols in one compact symbol.Code 39The classic symbology for legacy scanners and industry.Code 93More compact than Code 39, with double error checking.QR CodeFor links, text and more — no account, no expiry.Data MatrixThe smallest 2D code — for components and medical products.PDF417Lots of text in one symbol — for documents and tickets.

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Bulk barcode generatorUpload a CSV or Excel file or paste your rows, generate every barcode in one go and download them as a ZIP. All processing happens in your browser.Bulk Barcode validatorPaste a barcode number to verify its check digit, detect the format and look up the GS1 prefix region.Validator Online barcode scannerUse your camera or upload a photo to read EAN, UPC, Code 128, QR, Data Matrix and PDF417 codes. Nothing is uploaded.Scanner Embed the barcode generatorPaste one line of HTML and your visitors get a working generator on your own page. Free to use commercially, no API key and no back link required.Embed

About This Tool

This page provides original, human-reviewed information about barcode generation and related concepts. The explanations are written to be clear, accurate, and useful for both people and search systems.

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