To provide a printing plate having a printing surface substantially formed by applying an image-like exposure to an original plate without necessity of developing, good coating properties and small scumming at a printing time and capable of repeatedly using the printing original plate and a method for manufacturing the plate and to provide an apparatus for printing capable of manufacturing the plate in a printing machine.

The method for manufacturing a lithographic printing plate comprises the steps of giving a layer of a hydrophilic substance to the printing original plate having a thin layer of a photothermal conversion, hydrophilic and lipophilic metal compound, then casting an active light in an image-like state to form an ink acceptive area. A method for printing comprises the steps of initializing the spent printing plate by casting the active light and repeatedly using the plate.