Saving a PDF form into a non-form file for my printer

[jillg97156481]

I need to know how to save an Acrobat form into a PDF format that can be uploaded into a non-fillable file that can be included in a collection for my printer. I have had to print, then scan the form to make this work. Any suggestions?

[gkaiseril]

If you have Adobe Acrobat, you can use JavaScript to "flatten" the form. This will convert the form fields to the content of the PDF. If you have Acrobat Professional, you can use the 'Print Production" "Prefight" to "flatten" the form.

[jillg81658550]

I have Acrobat Professional DC. I don't see the option anywhere to flatten or print production. In which menu should I find it? I built the original form in LiveCycle. Does that make a difference?

[jillg81658550]

Ohhh. Because I just downloaded the Cloud version from CS5.5, I didn't know how to find the menus. I figured it out. Thank you so very much! This is a lifesaver.

[gkaiseril · Accepted solution]

Click on the "Tools" tab. The "Tools" panel and page will open.

Scroll down the page to the secion "Protect & Standardize".

Open the "Optimize" button. The "Optimize" ribbon will open.

Select the "Prefight" option. The "Prefight" pop-up window will appear.

Open the "PDF fixups" to open all the options under this category.

Highlight the "Flatten annotations and form fields".

Click the "Analyze and fix" button.

Respond to the pop-ups as needed.

Save the form under a different file name.

The flattener is also available the Optimizer tools Transparency flattening (Adobe Acrobat Pro DC)

[JR Boulay]

I have had to print, then scan the form…

[jillg97156481]

Well, I guess we all have to start somewhere; right? I've taught myself almost everything I know about all Adobe software, plus searching online for answers. It's a "fake it until I make it" strategy. 🙂

[gkaiseril]

Others have written a tool to do just such a task

Widgets for Adobe Acrobat : Selective Flattener that is far more selective than the Adobe provided tool.

The U.S. Courts suggest How to Flatten PDF Forms​ but is far from the ideal solution. And these people decide technological issues and rights.

[Paula23960996arv7]

Oh great answer gkaiseril! You saved me! Your instructions were very clear! You should write training guides! Thank you! Paula in Arizona! 🙂