How to Sign a PDF Online
A comprehensive, step-by-step tutorial to signing documents electronically on Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android.
Signing a PDF document used to require a printer, pen, scanner, and specialized software. Today, you can complete the entire process directly in your browser using SignPdfDoc in four simple steps.
Step 1: Open Your PDF Document
To begin, open our online PDF signer. Click the "Upload PDF" button or drag and drop your document file directly into the designated upload zone. The document will load instantly onto the interactive canvas.
SignPdfDoc processes files 100% in your local browser memory, meaning your document is never transmitted to an external server.
Step 2: Create Your Signature
Click the Add Signature button located on the top toolbar. You can create your signature in three different ways:
- Draw your signature: Use your mouse, laptop trackpad, finger, or stylus pen to draw a natural signature. You can toggle between black, navy, and blue ink colors.
- Type your signature: Type your name into the text box and choose between five elegant calligraphic cursive typefaces.
- Upload a signature image: Upload a photo or scan of your physical signature on white paper. The tool automatically removes the paper background for a clean transparent stamp.
Step 3: Position and Resize Your Signature
Once you click "Apply Signature", your signature appears directly over the document:
- Move: Click and drag the signature box to position it precisely on the designated signature line.
- Resize: Drag any of the four circular corner handles to scale the signature up or down proportionately.
- Add Date: If your contract requires a date, click the "Add Date" button to stamp today's date automatically next to your signature.
Step 4: Download Your Signed PDF
Review your document to verify that all signatures and date fields are positioned accurately. When satisfied, click the Download Signed PDF button in the top right corner. Your signed PDF is generated and downloaded to your device immediately.
Pro Tip: You can navigate between multiple pages using the page selector in the toolbar and place signatures on different pages within the same document before downloading.
Comparing Signature Methods
| Signature Method | Best For | Recommended Device |
|---|---|---|
| Drawn Signature | Personal handwritten look | Touchscreen, Tablet, Smartphone, or Mouse |
| Typed Signature | Quick, neat, professional cursive | Desktop, Laptop, Mobile |
| Uploaded Image | Exact replica of physical ink signature | All devices with pre-saved image |