How to sign a PDF
- Open your PDF with Select file or by dragging it onto the page.
- Choose Add signature and create your signature: draw it with a mouse, trackpad or finger, type your name, or upload a photo or scan of your handwritten signature.
- Click the page where the signature belongs, then drag and resize it so it sits neatly on the signature line.
- Add the date, your printed name or initials with Add text if the document asks for them.
- Click Download to save the signed PDF.
Electronic signatures and digital signatures are different
This tool adds an electronic signature: a visual mark of your signature placed on the page, just like signing a printout and scanning it, only faster and cleaner. It does not add a certificate-based digital signature (the cryptographic kind that proves which certificate signed a file and detects later changes). Most everyday paperwork such as rental forms, consent forms, timesheets and quotes only needs a visual signature. If a bank, court or government portal explicitly requires a certified digital signature, use the signing service it recommends.
Tips for a clean, professional signature
- Draw your signature larger than you need and scale it down; small mouse movements look shaky at full size.
- Use dark blue or black. Very light colours can disappear when the document is printed or faxed.
- For an uploaded signature, a PNG with a transparent background looks best. You can make one with Remove Image Background.
- Fill in any form fields first with Fill PDF Form, then sign, so nothing covers your answers.
When you download, the signature is written into the page content, so it displays the same in every PDF viewer and printer.
Your signature stays private
The signature you draw or upload exists only in your browser tab. It is not sent to us, not stored on a server and not saved for next time. If you need to send the signed document securely, you can add an open password with Protect PDF before emailing it.
Frequently asked questions
Is a signature added this way legally binding?
Electronic signatures are recognised for many types of documents in many countries, for example under the ESIGN Act in the US, eIDAS in the EU and the IT Act in India. Requirements vary by document and jurisdiction, and some documents need a certificate-based digital signature or a handwritten signature. This is general information, not legal advice.
Do you keep a copy of my signature?
No. Signatures are created and placed in your browser and are discarded when you close the page. Nothing is uploaded.
Can I sign several pages?
Yes. Navigate to each page with the thumbnails and place your signature or initials wherever they are needed before downloading.
Can I sign on my phone?
Yes. On a touchscreen you can draw your signature with your finger, then position it with touch gestures.
Will the recipient see a certificate or signature panel in Acrobat?
No. The result is a visual signature on the page, not a cryptographic digital signature, so PDF readers will not show a signature validation panel.