Sign PDF is a free tool for adding your signature to a PDF without printing, signing and scanning it. Draw your signature, type your name in a handwriting style, or upload a photo of your real signature, then place it anywhere on any page, along with the date or your initials. The document is signed in your browser, so contracts and forms never leave your device.
How to sign a PDF
- Choose the PDF you need to sign.
- Create your signature: Draw it with your mouse, finger or stylus, Type your name, or Upload a photo.
- Tap the page where the signature should go. Drag it into place and drag the corner to resize.
- Use the arrows to move to other pages and sign them too. Add Today’s date or initials if the form asks for them.
- Click Download signed PDF.
Tips for a good-looking signature
- Drawing: sign larger than you need and a little slower than on paper; it’s scaled down neatly when placed.
- Uploading: sign on plain white paper with a dark pen and photograph it straight on. The white background is removed automatically.
- Blue ink makes it obvious a copy was signed, which some offices prefer.
Electronic signatures and the law
Signing like this creates an electronic signature: a mark showing you agree to the document. In the United States, the United Kingdom, the European Union, India and many other countries it is legally accepted for most everyday agreements, such as tenancy agreements, job offers, school forms and invoices. A few documents, like wills and property deeds, need a witness or a certified digital signature, so check when the stakes are high.
After signing
Send the signed PDF as it is, or protect it with a password and turn off editing usingProtect PDF. To combine it with other paperwork, use Merge PDF, and if it’s too large to email, shrink it with Compress PDF.
Frequently asked questions
Is a signature added this way legally valid?
In many countries, including the US (ESIGN Act), the UK and the EU (eIDAS), an electronic signature like this is legally valid for most everyday documents, such as rental agreements, forms and letters. Some documents, like wills or property deeds, may need a witnessed or certified signature; check if you’re unsure.
Is this a digital signature with a certificate?
No. It places a picture of your signature on the page, like signing a printed copy. A certificate-based digital signature, which proves the file hasn’t changed since signing, needs an ID-verified certificate from a trust provider.
Is my document uploaded?
No. The PDF is signed inside your browser, so contracts and personal documents never leave your device.
Can I sign on my phone?
Yes. Draw your signature with your finger, tap the page to place it, then drag it into position and drag its corner to resize.
Can someone remove or edit my signature afterwards?
The signature becomes part of the page, like printed ink. To stop further changes, lock the signed file with Protect PDF and turn off editing.
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