Quick answer: To sign a PDF online, open it in a signing tool, draw, type or upload your signature, place it on the signature line, add the date and save. In the United States, electronic signatures are legally valid for most contracts under the ESIGN Act (2000) and state laws based on the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act. Exceptions include wills and certain court and family law documents.
How to sign a PDF in four steps
- Open Sign PDF and add your document. It stays in your browser.
- Create your signature: draw it with a mouse or finger, type your name in a script font, or upload a photo of your handwritten signature.
- Place it on the signature line, resize it, and add the date or initials where needed.
- Save the PDF and check every signed page before sending.
Need to fill in the form first? Fill PDF Form completes the fields and includes a signing step.
Electronic vs digital signatures
| Type | What it is | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Electronic signature | Any electronic sign of intent: a drawn, typed or image signature, or a click to accept | Most business agreements, forms, consent |
| Digital signature | A cryptographic signature using a certificate that shows whether the file changed after signing | Regulated documents, some government filings |
| Qualified electronic signature (EU) | An advanced signature from a qualified provider, legally equal to a handwritten one in the EU | High-value or regulated EU transactions |
Is an electronic signature legally binding?
- United States: the ESIGN Act says a signature or contract cannot be denied legal effect just because it is electronic. Nearly every state has adopted UETA, and New York has its own Electronic Signatures and Records Act.
- European Union: the eIDAS Regulation recognizes simple, advanced and qualified electronic signatures, and a qualified signature has the same effect as a handwritten one.
- United Kingdom: electronic signatures are generally valid, confirmed by the Law Commission in 2019 and the Electronic Communications Act 2000.
What matters in a dispute is showing intent to sign and linking the signature to the right person and document, so keep the email or message trail that goes with it.
Documents that usually need a wet signature
- Wills, codicils and testamentary trusts
- Some family law documents, such as adoption and divorce papers
- Court orders and certain court filings
- Notices of utility shut-off, foreclosure or eviction
- Documents that must be notarized in person, unless your state allows remote online notarization
Check requirements: When the other party specifies a signature method, such as a certificate-based digital signature, follow their instructions.
Tips for a clean, credible signature
- Use the same signature style you use on paper.
- Upload a signature on white paper, photographed in good light, for the most natural look.
- Flatten the PDF after signing if the recipient asks for a non-editable copy.
- Keep a copy of the signed PDF and the message you sent it with.
- Never sign a document you downloaded from an untrusted link.
Frequently asked questions
How do I sign a PDF for free?
Open Sign PDF, draw, type or upload your signature, place it on the page and save. It is free and nothing is uploaded.
Is a typed signature legally valid?
In the US, generally yes for most agreements, because the ESIGN Act and UETA recognize electronic signatures that show intent to sign.
What is the difference between an electronic and a digital signature?
An electronic signature is any electronic mark of intent. A digital signature uses a certificate and cryptography to prove the file has not changed since signing.
Can I sign a PDF on my phone?
Yes. Open the tool in your phone browser and draw your signature with your finger.
Which documents cannot be signed electronically?
Wills, some family law and court documents, and certain notices usually need a handwritten signature. Check local rules.
Is my document uploaded when I sign it here?
No. The signature is added in your browser and the file never leaves your device.
Keep going
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Signature requirements vary by country, state and document type. When in doubt, ask the recipient or a lawyer which signature method they accept.
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.