How to sign a PDF online without printing it
Add a drawn, typed or uploaded signature to any PDF in your browser, and understand the difference between a visual and a digital signature.
Quick answer
Open Sign PDF, create your signature by drawing, typing or uploading an image, tap the page to place it, adjust size and position, and download the signed copy. The signature is not stored after you leave the page.
Steps
- Open Sign PDF and choose the document.
- Create a signature: Draw with a finger, stylus or mouse; Type your name; or Upload a photo of your signature.
- Select the page, tap where the signature belongs, then drag or use arrow keys to fine-tune and the size slider to resize.
- Add initials or a date the same way if needed, then select Save signed PDF.
Visual vs digital signatures
What this tool adds is a visual electronic signature: an image of your signature drawn onto the page. Many organizations accept this for everyday paperwork.
A certificate-based digital signature is different: it cryptographically binds the document to a verified identity and detects later changes. That requires a certificate from a trust provider and is not something a drawn mark provides.
Before you sign
- If the PDF has fillable fields, fill them first, then consider flattening so values can't be changed accidentally.
- Adding a signature changes the file, which invalidates any existing digital signatures.