Automatically Print Files from a Google Drive Folder
For recurring print workflows, like weekly reports or regular class materials, automating the PDF conversion step removes most of the manual work. Google Apps Script can export a Drive folder to PDF on a schedule. Once the PDFs are ready, you can print them from your downloads folder without any conversion steps.
Automating the conversion with Apps Script
Google Apps Script has access to the Drive API and can export any Google Doc, Sheet, or Slides file to PDF programmatically. Write a script that iterates over a specified folder, exports each file, and saves the PDFs to a target Drive folder or sends them to your email. Set a time-based trigger to run the script daily, weekly, or at any interval you choose.
Chrome extension vs automation
The Docs to PDF Chrome extension is the right tool for on-demand batch printing. For automated, unattended workflows where you want PDFs ready at a set time, Apps Script is a better fit. Use the extension when you are in Drive and want to print now, and use Apps Script when you want PDFs prepared in advance on a schedule.
Combining both approaches
A practical workflow: Apps Script exports your weekly report folder to a Drive folder every Monday morning. When you arrive, the PDFs are already there. Open the Drive folder with the PDFs, select them all, and print. No conversion waiting time at all.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Chrome extension run on a schedule without me clicking?
No. The extension requires user interaction. For unattended scheduled exports, use Google Apps Script.
Does Apps Script require a paid Google Workspace account?
No. Apps Script is free and available on all Google accounts. Workspace accounts have higher execution quotas.
Ready to Try It?
Install the free Chrome extension and start converting your Google Docs to PDF in one click.
Install Free Extension