Tech Tip - Printer Stuck Initializing HP Pro LaserJet and Color LaserJet Printers

Ebben

Author: Ebben Joslin, Technical Support Supervisor

Published on May 29th, 2025


Covers:

  • – HP Pro LaserJet and Color LaserJet Printers

Description:

After powering on, these printers can get stuck in the “Initializing” step. Generally, this occurs if the device is unable to load the printer’s firmware or if the formatter has failed.

Example of printer stuck initializing:

HP Pinter Stuck Initializing
Diagnosing and Resolving Issue:
  1. Power off the printer, then disconnect all data cables from the printer. Power the printer on and check if issue persists.
  2. If still stuck initializing, perform a NVRAM reset. **NOTE: The following steps will reset settings to default and they will have to be reconfigured**
    1. Older Models (If unsure if your model is old or new, performing the opposite steps will not harm your device)
      1. Touchscreen: With printer off, press and hold the lower left corner of the touchscreen, turn the printer on and continue to hold touchscreen until “Permanent Storage Initialization” is displayed.
      2. 10-key: With printer off, simultaneously press and hold the cancel (X) and left arrow buttons, turn the printer on and continue to hold buttons until “Permanent Storage Initialization” is displayed.
    2. Newer Models
      1. Touchscreen: In quick succession press Home > Back > Home > Home to access the secondary menu. Select Service menu > Resets Menu > Semi-full reset.
  3. If printer is still stuck initializing after NVRAM reset, the formatter will need to be replaced.