Printing a document just to sign it, then scanning it and sending it back, is a routine most people would happily skip. With the S-PDF sign PDF tool you add your signature straight to the file: draw it, type it, or upload a picture of the signature you already use, then place it on the right line of any page.
Next to the signature you can add your initials, your name, the date, free text and a check mark, which covers what typical leases, consent forms, delivery notes, timesheets and simple agreements ask for. When you download, the signature is merged into the page, so it stays exactly where you put it whichever app opens the file.
How to sign a PDF in 4 steps
- Upload your PDF Drag the document onto the upload box or select it from your device.
- Create your signature Draw it with your mouse, trackpad or finger, type your name and pick one of the handwriting-style fonts, or upload a PNG or JPG picture of your signature.
- Place and complete Put the signature on the signature line, then move and resize it. Add initials, your name, the date, text or a check mark wherever the document needs them, on as many pages as required.
- Download the signed PDF Download the file and open it once to check every signature and date before you send it.
Why use S-PDF for Sign PDF
- Three ways to signDraw your signature, type it in a handwriting-style font, or upload an image of your real one.
- More than a signatureAdd initials, your name, the date, free text and check marks to complete the whole form.
- Any page, any spotMove and resize each element and sign as many pages as the document needs.
- Fixed in placeThe signature is flattened into the page, so it looks the same in every viewer and when printed.
- Sign with a fingerDraw your signature directly on a phone or tablet touchscreen.
- Not keptYour signature is not stored once your files are deleted, at the latest one hour after your last action.
Draw, type or upload: which signature to use
| Method | How it works | Best when |
|---|---|---|
| Draw | Sign with a mouse, trackpad or finger | You are on a phone or tablet and want a natural, handwritten look |
| Type | Type your name and pick a handwriting-style font | You want a neat, consistent result, or drawing with a mouse looks shaky |
| Upload | Use a PNG or JPG picture of your signature | You want it to match your signature on paper exactly |
For an upload, sign in dark ink on plain white paper, photograph or scan it in good light, and crop the image tightly around the signature so it fits neatly on the line.
Is a signature added this way legally valid?
S-PDF creates a simple electronic signature: a visual signature placed on the document. Many countries accept this kind of signature for everyday agreements. In the European Union, the eIDAS regulation says an electronic signature cannot be refused legal effect just because it is electronic, and in the United States the ESIGN Act likewise says a signature may not be denied legal effect solely because it is electronic, with exceptions for some document types.
It is not a certificate-based digital signature or a qualified electronic signature. It does not verify your identity or seal the file against later changes. Some documents, depending on the country, such as wills, property deeds or notarised papers, may require a handwritten, witnessed or qualified signature. Requirements differ by country and document type, so check with the recipient when in doubt. This is general information, not legal advice.
Tips before you send a signed PDF
- Sign last. Finish other changes first, such as filling in fields with Edit PDF, because the signature is merged into the page when you download.
- Initial every page if the agreement asks for it. Add your initials once and place them on each page.
- Need someone else's signature? Sending signature requests to other people is not available yet. Send them the PDF and they can sign it here the same way.
- Keep it private. Signed forms often hold personal details, so consider adding a password with Protect PDF before you email the file.
Frequently asked questions
Is it free to sign a PDF?
Yes. You can sign up to 10 files and 50 MB per task, 5 times a day, with no signup and no watermark. Pro ($5 a month or $50 a year) allows 50 files and 500 MB per task, unlimited tasks under fair use, and no ads.
Is a PDF signed here legally binding?
It is a simple electronic signature, which many countries accept for everyday agreements, for example under eIDAS in the EU and the ESIGN Act in the US. Some documents need a certificate-based or qualified signature, so check the rules for your country and document. This is not legal advice.
Can I sign a PDF on my phone?
Yes. Open the tool in your phone or tablet browser and draw your signature with your finger, or type it or upload a photo of it. Nothing needs to be installed.
Can I sign several pages or add initials?
Yes. Place your signature or initials on as many pages as needed, and add your name, the date, text and check marks wherever the document asks for them.
Can I ask other people to sign my PDF?
Not yet. Requesting signatures from others is not available. Send them the PDF and they can sign it with the tool themselves.
Is this a digital signature with a certificate?
No. It is a visual electronic signature flattened into the page. It does not include a certificate, identity check or tamper seal.
Do you keep a copy of my signature?
Only while you work on your document. Your signature is not stored after your files are deleted, which happens automatically one hour after your last action, or immediately with the Delete my files now button.
Can the signature be moved after downloading?
No. When you download, the signature is merged into the page so it cannot slide out of place. To change it, sign the original file again.
Last updated by The S-PDF team.