Sign PDF Online Free - Add Digital Signatures
Updated December 2025 | 6 min read
Table of Contents
Types of PDF Signatures
- Drawn signature: Use mouse or touchscreen to draw your signature
- Typed signature: Type your name in a signature font
- Uploaded signature: Upload an image of your signature
- Digital certificate: Cryptographically verified signature
How to Sign PDFs Online
Free Method - PDFSmartly:
1. Upload your PDF
2. Click where you want to sign
3. Draw, type, or upload your signature
4. Download signed PDF
1. Upload your PDF
2. Click where you want to sign
3. Draw, type, or upload your signature
4. Download signed PDF
Using Adobe Acrobat Reader (Free)
- Open PDF in Adobe Acrobat Reader
- Click "Fill & Sign" in the right panel
- Click "Sign" then "Add Signature"
- Draw, type, or upload your signature
- Place signature on document and save
Are Electronic Signatures Legal?
Yes! Electronic signatures are legally binding in most countries:
- USA: ESIGN Act (2000) makes e-signatures legal
- EU: eIDAS Regulation recognizes e-signatures
- UK: Electronic Communications Act 2000
- Canada: PIPEDA allows electronic signatures
Best Practices for PDF Signatures
- Use a consistent signature across all documents
- Add date next to signature when required
- Save a copy of the signed document
- For high-value contracts, consider notarized digital signatures