PDF417 Barcode Generator for US Driver’s License Templates
The PDF417 stacked linear barcode symbol is the standard format used on the back of United States driver’s licenses and identification cards. It stores a significant amount of data, including the cardholder’s biometric information, address, and license class, encoded according to the AAMVA (American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators) design standards.
Our **Free PDF417 Generator** allows developers, designers, and QA engineers to create valid, scannable barcodes for testing ID verification systems, populating mockup templates, or debugging scanner hardware.
Generate Your Barcode
Enter the data fields to generate a high-resolution PDF417 barcode. The output is optimized for scanning and template integration.
Why Use an AAMVA-Compliant Generator?
Standard barcode generators often fail to format the data header correctly for ID scanners. Our tool is specifically optimized for this use case:
- Scanner Testing: If you are developing an age-verification app or a POS system for bars and retail, you need to ensure your hardware allows data parsing correctly. Use our generated barcodes to perform regression testing.
- AAMVA Standards: We support the proper data structure (Header, File Type, Issuer Identification Number) required for US and Canadian jurisdictions.
- High Density: PDF417 allows for encoding over a kilobyte of data in a small space. Our generator ensures the error correction level is set appropriately so the barcode remains readable even if slightly damaged.
- Template Integration: Perfect for graphic designers creating props for movies or mockup templates who need a visual element that looks and scans authentically.
Understanding the PDF417 Format
Unlike QR codes, PDF417 (Portable Data File 417) is a stacked barcode. “417” signifies that each pattern in the code consists of 4 bars and spaces in a 17-module codeword. This complexity makes it ideal for government-issued IDs as it can store:
- Full Legal Name
- Date of Birth (DOB)
- Physical Address (City, State, Zip)
- License Expiration Date
- Document Discriminator
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Will these barcodes work on real scanners?
Yes. If you input valid data formatting, the generated PDF417 image is technically readable by standard 2D barcode scanners and smartphone ID scanning applications.
Is this tool for creating fake IDs?
No. This tool is strictly for educational, testing, and design purposes (e.g., movie props, software debugging). Creating fraudulent government documents for illegal use is a serious crime. We do not support or condone the forgery of legal documents.
Can I customize the error correction level?
Our generator automatically applies the optimal error correction level (usually Level 4 or 5) to ensure the barcode is robust enough for printing and scanning.