Laserjet 1536dnf driver unavailable and driver error. Printer ok but can't use for scan

[2Happyfeet]

Laserjet 1536dnf driver unavailable and driver error. Printer ok but can't use for scan

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @2Happyfeet,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

Thank you for posting your query. I will be glad to help you.

Thanks for the details. If your HP LaserJet Pro M1536dnf Multifunction Printer is working for printing but not for scanning on Windows 11, and you're seeing “driver unavailable” or “driver error,” then the issue is most likely due to missing or incompatible scanning drivers or software components.

Let’s walk through a few steps to fix this:

Step 1: Use HP Print and Scan Doctor

You can also run HP’s troubleshooting tool:

🔗 HP Print and Scan Doctor: Official HP Print and Scan Doctor for Windows | Free Download hppsdr.exe

It will detect and repair driver conflicts, connection issues, and scan problems.

Step 2: Fully Uninstall Old Drivers and HP Software

1. Unplug the printer's USB or disconnect it from the network.
2. Open Control Panel > Programs and Features, uninstall anything HP-related, like:
   • HP M1536 software or driver packages
   • HP Scan software
   • HP Smart (if not being used)
3. Press Windows + R, type printui /s /t2, and press Enter.
   • Remove the printer and its driver package if listed under the Drivers tab.
4. Restart your computer.

Step 3. Download and Install the Full Feature Software

HP no longer provides the old "HP Solution Center" software, but for scanning to work correctly with this older model, you’ll want to install:

🔗 HP LaserJet Pro M1536dnf Full Software Solution (Windows 10/11)

• Download from:  HP LaserJet Pro M1536dnf Multifunction Printer Software and Driver Downloads | HP® Support
• Run the installer as Administrator (right-click → “Run as administrator”).
• Follow the prompts and connect the printer only when prompted.

Step 4. Check the WIA (Windows Image Acquisition) Service

1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, press Enter.
2. Scroll to Windows Image Acquisition (WIA).
3. Make sure it's set to Automatic and that it’s running.
4. If it's stopped, right-click → Start.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, as it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!

VikramTheGreat

HP Support