Before you start
- The PDF document
- Adobe Acrobat Reader (free), Preview (Mac) or the Files app (iPhone)
Method 1 Adobe Acrobat Reader (Windows, Mac, Android, iPhone)
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Step 1: Open the PDF
Open it in the free Adobe Acrobat Reader app or desktop program.
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Step 2: Choose Fill & Sign
Select Fill & Sign (or Sign in the toolbar).
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Step 3: Create a signature
Click Add signature, then Type, Draw (with mouse, trackpad or finger) or Image (a photo of your signature).
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Step 4: Place and save
Click where it should go, resize it, add the date with the text tool, then save or share.
Method 2 Mac: Preview
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Step 1: Open Markup
Open the PDF in Preview and click the Markup (pen) button.
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Step 2: Create a signature
Click the Sign button > Create Signature. Sign on the trackpad, hold a signed paper to the camera, or use your iPhone.
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Step 3: Place it
Click the signature to insert it, drag to position, and save (File > Save).
Method 3 iPhone and iPad: Markup
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Step 1: Open the PDF
Open it from Mail or the Files app.
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Step 2: Add Signature
Tap the Markup (pen) button, then + > Add Signature. Sign with your finger and tap Done.
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Step 3: Position and finish
Drag and resize it, then tap Done. Share the signed PDF.
Troubleshooting
The signature looks blurry or has a background
Draw it digitally, or photograph a signature in black ink on white paper in good light.
Can’t edit the PDF after signing
Some forms lock after signing. Keep an unsigned copy if you may need changes.
Frequently asked questions
Is an electronic signature legally valid?
In most countries (e.g. US ESIGN Act, EU eIDAS) electronic signatures are valid for most documents. Some documents need special forms.
Is Adobe Acrobat Reader free?
Yes, Fill & Sign is free.
Summary
Use Adobe Acrobat Reader’s Fill & Sign, Preview on Mac or Markup on iPhone to sign PDFs without printing. For legally sensitive contracts, use a certified e-signature service.
