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    Sign PDF

    Add your signature to any PDF document. Draw, type, or upload your signature.

    Free to use. Runs in your browser.

    Add a visual signature to a PDF directly in your browser.

    No account needed. The selected PDF and signature are processed after the page loads.

    Drop PDF file here

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    Create Your Signature

    Visual Signatures vs Digital Signatures: Which Do You Need?

    This is the question most people skip, and it matters. A visual signature, which is what this tool creates, looks like a handwritten signature placed on the page. A cryptographic digital signature uses certificates to help verify who signed and whether the document changed afterwards.

    FeatureVisual Signature (This Tool)Cryptographic Digital SignatureDocuSign / Adobe Sign
    What it doesPlaces your signature image on the PDFCan bind identity to a document with certificatesVisual signature plus audit records, depending on provider
    Proves identity?No, anyone could place the imageCan, depending on certificate and processMay use email verification and audit records
    Detects tampering?NoCan invalidate if the document is editedMay record changes through an audit trail
    CostThis tool is freeVaries by certificate providerVaries by service and plan
    Best forEveryday documents, forms, lettersLegal filings, regulated industriesMulti-party contracts, remote teams

    What this means for you: A visual signature may be enough for low-risk everyday documents, forms, letters, and applications. Use a verified signing service or professional advice when identity proof, audit trails, regulated filings, or high-value contracts matter.

    When Is a Visual Signature Enough?

    Many jurisdictions recognise electronic signatures, but the rules and evidence requirements vary by document type and location. This tool only adds a visual signature image to a PDF.

    Some documents may require a qualified electronic signature, witness, notary, identity check, audit trail, or wet-ink signature. Check the recipient's requirements before using a visual signature for contracts, property documents, regulated forms, or anything high-value.

    Intent still matters, but evidence matters too. Keep the unsigned original, the signed copy, email context, timestamps, and any approval trail that shows who agreed to what.

    Tips for a Professional-Looking Signature

    1. 1

      Use a stylus or finger on a touchscreen

      Drawing with a mouse produces wobbly, unnatural signatures. If you have a tablet, phone, or touchscreen laptop, use your finger or a stylus for a natural result.

    2. 2

      Sign on white paper, photograph, and upload

      The cleanest approach: sign on blank white paper with a dark pen, take a well-lit photo, crop it, and upload the image. This usually captures your real signature more accurately than drawing with a mouse.

    3. 3

      Use the type option for formal documents

      A typed name in a script font looks clean and professional. It may be acceptable for some business documents and is often more legible than a scrawled drawing.

    4. 4

      Add the date next to your signature

      Most formal documents expect a date alongside the signature. It establishes when you signed and can be important if terms have a time limit.

    The Recommended Signing Workflow

    For the best results, handle PDF operations in this order:

    Merge→Organize→Page numbers→Sign→Protect

    Sign near the end of the process. If you sign first and then need to reorganise pages or add page numbers, you'd have to re-sign the modified document. If you use a password-protection workflow, do it after signing so you do not block later edits.

    Related PDF Tools

    Protect PDF

    Password protection guidance

    Watermark PDF

    Mark as "SIGNED" or "ORIGINAL"

    Merge PDF

    Combine documents before signing

    Compress PDF

    Reduce file size before sending

    Unlock PDF

    Remove restrictions before signing

    PDF Page Numbers

    Add page numbers to signed documents

    How to use this tool

    1

    Upload your PDF document

    2

    Create your signature by drawing, typing, or uploading

    3

    Click Sign PDF and download your signed document

    Common uses

    • Signing contracts, agreements, or consent forms before sending them back
    • Adding your signature to invoices or purchase orders
    • Signing rental applications or tenancy agreements remotely
    • Applying a signature to school permission slips or simple forms
    • Quickly signing NDAs or freelance agreements without printing

    Share this tool

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What kind of signature does this add?
    This tool adds a visual signature image to your PDF. It is not a qualified electronic signature, certificate-based digital signature, or audit-trail service. Legal effect depends on the document, jurisdiction, and signing process.
    Can I add multiple signatures to one document?
    Currently, you can add one signature per session. For multiple signatures, download the signed PDF and upload it again to add another signature.
    Is my signature stored anywhere?
    Your signature is created in the current browser session. This tool does not upload the selected PDF or signature to an iForge Apps server. Clear the page or reload it to discard the in-page signature data.
    Can I choose where the signature appears?
    The signature is placed in the bottom-right corner of the first page by default. For precise positioning, use a desktop tool like Adobe Acrobat Reader (free).
    What signature methods are available?
    Three options: draw with your mouse or finger, type your name in a cursive font, or upload an image of your handwritten signature.
    What image format should I upload for my signature?
    PNG works best, especially with a transparent background. JPG also works but may include a white rectangle behind your signature.
    Does signing increase file size?
    Usually modestly. The signature is embedded as an image, and the exact file-size change depends on the signature image and PDF structure.
    Can I sign a password-protected PDF?
    If the PDF requires a password to open, this tool cannot sign it. If it only has owner restrictions, remove those first with our Unlock PDF tool, then sign the unprotected copy.
    Is my PDF uploaded to a server?
    The selected PDF and signature are processed in your browser after the page assets load. This tool does not upload them to an iForge Apps server.
    Can I remove a signature after adding it?
    Not with this tool. Once downloaded, the signature is part of the new PDF copy. Keep your unsigned original as a backup in case you need to re-sign.
    Does this work on my phone?
    Yes. Drawing with your finger on a touchscreen often produces a more natural-looking signature than using a mouse.
    Can I lock the document after signing?
    Our Protect PDF tool is coming soon. For now, use Adobe Acrobat or LibreOffice to add password protection after signing.

    Results are for general informational purposes only and should be checked before use. They are not professional advice. See our Disclaimer and Terms of Service.