How to sign a PDF online

Sign a PDF, step by step

1. Open the PDF signer and choose your PDF. A photo of a paper document works too.
2. Open the page that needs your signature.
3. Choose the signature tool, then draw your signature with your finger, mouse or pen, type your name, or upload a picture of your signature.
4. Drag the signature onto the signature line and drag its corner dot to resize it. Zoom in if you want to line it up precisely.
5. Tap Done, then create and download the signed PDF.

Three ways to make a signature

• Draw it. Quick, and it looks like your real signature. A finger on a phone works, but a stylus or mouse is usually neater.
• Type it. Useful when you only need your name in a signature style.
• Upload it. Sign a white sheet of paper, photograph it in good light, and upload the picture. A PNG with a transparent background places cleanly over the page.

Reuse your signature

If you tick the option to save your signature on this device, it is kept in this browser only, never uploaded, so you do not have to draw it again next time. You can remove it whenever you like.

Is this signature legally valid?

That depends on the document and where you are. What you add here is an image of your signature placed on the page, the same as signing on paper. It is not a certificate-based digital signature, and PDFScanner cannot give legal advice. If the person or organisation asking for your signature requires a specific e-signature service or a certified signature, check with them first.

Tips for a good result

• Sign on the line, not over the printed text.
• Keep the signature about the size of your handwriting on paper.
• Sign every page that needs it; your last signature is offered again so you do not need to redraw it.
• Open the finished PDF and check every signature before you send it.