Specify which layers to print

Last updated on Jun 2, 2026

Learn how to use the Print Layers menu in Adobe InDesign to control which layers appear in printed output.

The Print Layers menu in InDesign lets you control which layers appear in printed output. You can print different versions of a document, such as with or without annotations or with alternate language layers. Layer print settings apply to the current print job and to PDF exports.

Before you begin

Ensure each layer's print settings are configured appropriately. You can verify these settings in the Layers panel by double-clicking a layer name and reviewing the Print Layer and Show Layer options in the Layer Options dialog box.

Select File > Print.

In the General section of the Print dialog box, locate the Print Layers menu.

Select one of the following options:

  • Visible & Printable Layers: Prints only layers that are both visible and set to print.
  • Visible Layers: Prints all visible layers regardless of print settings.
  • All Layers: Prints every layer in the document.

Verify the page preview in the Print dialog reflects your layer selection.

Configure any additional print settings, then select Print.