How to fix a "filter failed" error when printing PDFs on macOS

Questions

  • What does the "Stopped - Filter Failed" error mean when printing PDFs on macOS?
  • Why am I seeing "Unable to convert PostScript file" when printing from my Mac?
  • Did the latest macOS update change the printing system?
  • How do I fix printer errors after upgrading to the newest macOS version?

Environment

This applies to Macs running the latest version of macOS (macOS Sonoma as of 2024) where printing PDFs results in errors such as “Stopped - Filter Failed” or “Unable to convert PostScript file.” These issues commonly occur after upgrading from an older version of macOS due to significant changes in the printing architecture, driver compatibility, or use of legacy PostScript workflow components.

Resolution

  1. Confirm admin access
    • You need administrator permissions. Bowdoin faculty and staff can use the Privileges app to temporarily gain admin access.
  2. Reset the printing system in macOS Sonoma or newer
    1. Click the Apple menu and choose System Settings.
    2. Scroll down the left-hand sidebar and select Printers & Scanners.
    3. Note the details of your installed printers, including names, queues, and driver information.
    4. Right-click or Control-click in the printers list and choose Reset Printing System.
    5. Click Reset when prompted.
    6. Enter your administrator username and password, then press Return.
    7. Wait until the list is empty, then restart your Mac.
  3. Reinstall your printers
    1. Open the Print Deploy app in your Applications folder.
    2. Find and install the desired printer(s).
    3. If your printer does not appear in Self Service:
      • Go to System Settings > Printers & Scanners.
      • Click the Add Printer, Scanner, or Fax button (+).
      • Select the printer from the list or enter its IP address if adding manually.
      • Choose an updated macOS-compatible printer driver (avoid older PostScript-only drivers when possible).
  4. Verify PDF printing
    • Open a PDF in Preview or another PDF viewer and try re-printing to the reinstalled printer.
    • If errors persist, ensure you are using the latest printer driver from the manufacturer’s website compatible with macOS Sonoma or later.
    • You may also try printing by choosing “Save as PDF” from the print dialog, then printing the saved copy.
  5. For Apple’s official guidance on managing macOS printer settings, see Apple: Reset the printing system on your Mac.
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