Mac

Printer not working with Mac

Printing issues on a Mac are usually caused by the printer being offline, outdated drivers/software, or a stuck print queue rather than a fault with the Mac itself.

Difficulty
Easy
Time
15–30 minutes
DIY cost
$0
Pro cost
$0

Symptoms

  • Print jobs sit in the queue without printing
  • Printer shows as 'Offline' or 'Paused' in System Settings
  • An error message appears when trying to print
  • Printer works with other devices but not this Mac

Likely causes

  • CommonThe printer being powered off, disconnected, or out of paper/inkBasic printer status issues are the most common cause.
  • CommonA stuck print job blocking the queueOne problematic job can prevent all subsequent jobs from printing.
  • CommonOutdated printer drivers or software on the MacManufacturers periodically update drivers for compatibility with new macOS versions.
  • PossibleA network connectivity issue for a Wi-Fi printerThe Mac and printer need to be on the same network to communicate.
  • PossibleThe printer needing to be re-added after a macOS updateOccasionally updates can require re-adding a printer.

What to do

  1. Check the printer itself: powered on, has paper and ink/toner, and shows no error lights or messages.
  2. Open System Settings > Printers & Scanners, select the printer, and click 'Open Print Queue' to see and clear any stuck jobs.
  3. If the printer shows Paused, click Resume; if Offline, try removing and re-adding the printer.
  4. Confirm the printer and Mac are connected to the same Wi-Fi network if it's a wireless printer.
  5. Check for and install the latest printer driver/software from the manufacturer's website.
  6. Restart both the printer and the Mac.
  7. Remove the printer entirely from System Settings > Printers & Scanners and add it again from scratch.
  8. Check for macOS updates, since printer compatibility fixes are sometimes included.

Tools and parts

  • None required

When to call a pro

This is almost always a software or connectivity issue resolvable yourself; contact the printer manufacturer's support for persistent driver issues.

Safety

Generally low risk

Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.

Related guides

Operator provides AI-generated troubleshooting information. It can be wrong. For safety-critical, electrical, gas, structural, medical, automotive safety, or other high-risk problems, consult a qualified professional.