Getting error message, ‘Paper too short for auto duplex’ when trying to print,

[Mzzrock]

Getting error message, ‘Paper too short for auto duplex’ while trying to print remotely. Double sided printing turned OFF, using letter-sized paper. How to fix????

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @Mzzrock 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

Thanks for explaining the issue—seeing a “Paper too short for auto duplex” error when duplex printing is turned off is confusing and frustrating. This message typically appears when the printer mistakenly thinks it needs to flip the page, even though you've disabled double-sided printing.

Here’s how to fix it:

 

Step-by-Step Fix for “Paper Too Short for Auto Duplex” Error

1. Confirm Duplex Setting Is Fully Disabled

Even if you turned off double-sided printing, some apps or drivers may override it.

On your PC:

• Go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers
• Right-click your HP printer → Printing Preferences
• Under the Finishing or Layout tab, make sure “Print on both sides” is set to Off
• Click Apply and OK

In your printing app (Word, PDF viewer, browser):

• Open the Print dialog
• Look for “Print on both sides” or “Duplex printing”
• Make sure it’s unchecked

 

2. Check Paper Size and Type Settings

• Ensure the paper size is set to Letter (8.5 x 11 inches) in both:
  • Printer driver settings
  • Application print settings
• Also check the paper type—some printers restrict duplexing on certain media types (e.g., photo paper, envelopes)

 

3. Reset the Printer’s Print Job Queue

• Cancel all pending print jobs
• Power off the printer
• Unplug it for 60 seconds
• Plug it back in and power on

 

4. Update Printer Firmware and Driver

• Visit your printer’s support page:
  HP Printer Drivers & Firmware
• Download and install the latest:
  • Full feature driver
  • Firmware update
• Restart your PC and printer after installation

Let me know your exact printer model if you'd like tailored steps or a direct driver link. 

You’ve already done the right thing by checking the basics—let’s make sure your printer stops second-guessing your settings.

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Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye