Quick answer: Open your PDF, choose Add signature, draw or type your name, click where it goes and save. The signature is written into the file so it shows in every reader. It is an electronic signature, not a certificate-based digital signature.
Three ways to make your signature
- Draw it with a mouse, trackpad or finger. Most natural on a touchscreen.
- Type it in a handwriting-style script. Tidy on a laptop.
- Upload it: photograph your signature on white paper. The white background is removed automatically.
Blue ink is a common convention because it makes the signed original easy to tell from a copy.
Initials, dates and printed names
Contracts often want initials on every page, a date and a printed name. The Sign tab has a button for each: Initials, Date (today’s date wherever you click) and Name / text. Every item can be moved, resized or deleted.
Saved signatures stay on this device
Tick Save for next time and up to six signatures are kept in this browser’s own storage. They are never uploaded or tied to an account, so they do not follow you to another device.
Is an electronic signature legally valid?
In many countries, including the United States under the E-SIGN Act and the European Union under eIDAS, electronic signatures are generally accepted for everyday agreements such as leases, freelance contracts and business forms.
Exceptions: Wills, some property transfers, court filings and certain government forms may need a wet signature, a notary or a certificate-based digital signature, which this tool does not create. Use the method the requesting organisation specifies. This is general information, not legal advice.
How to sign a PDF
- Add your PDF. The signature box opens straight away.
- Create your signature, choose an ink colour and press Place it.
- Position it on the signature line and add initials, dates or names.
- Save PDF. The signed copy downloads; your original is untouched.
How the browser-based signer works
The file opens with PDF.js and your signature is written in with pdf-lib, both in your browser. The signature becomes part of the page content, so it prints and displays in every reader, including those that ignore form fields and comments.
Privacy
Many signing services upload your document and keep a copy. Here the PDF is opened and changed entirely in your browser, not uploaded or stored, and no account is needed. Site analytics are covered in our privacy policy.
Frequently asked questions
Is it free to sign a PDF here?
Yes, with no signup, watermark, document limit or trial.
Is my document uploaded when I sign it?
No. The PDF is opened and signed inside your browser tab and never sent to a server.
Is an electronic signature legally binding?
In many places, including the US and EU, it is generally accepted for everyday agreements. Wills and some property or court papers may need a wet signature, notary or certificate-based signature. This is general information, not legal advice.
Is this a digital signature with a certificate?
No. It places an image of your signature on the page, an electronic signature without a cryptographic certificate.
Can I upload a photo of my real signature?
Yes. Sign on white paper, photograph it in good light and upload it; the background is made transparent.
Where are saved signatures kept?
In this browser’s local storage on this device only. They are never uploaded and can be deleted any time.
Can I add initials to every page?
Yes. Use Initials and place them on each page; each copy can be moved and resized.
Can I sign on my phone?
Yes. Drawing with a finger often looks more natural than a mouse.
Other PDF tools
Accuracy note: Tested with drawn, typed and photographed signatures on single and multi-page contracts. Open the saved file before sending a document that matters.
Content Lead, Anchor AI Tools, California, USA. Spotted an error? Email hello@anchoraitools.com and it will be checked and corrected. See our editorial standards.