Sign PDF Online for Free — Private and Secure
PDFico lets you add a signature to any PDF entirely in your browser. Draw your signature with your mouse or touchscreen, or type it using a handwriting-style font. Your files and signature never leave your device, making this the most private way to sign a document online.
How to Sign a PDF Online
- Step 1: Select your PDF — drag and drop the document you need to sign, or click to browse your files. No account or registration is needed.
- Step 2: Create your signature — choose between drawing and typing. To draw, use your mouse, trackpad, or touchscreen to write your signature on the canvas. To type, enter your name and it will be rendered in a handwriting-style font. You can undo strokes or clear and start again at any time.
- Step 3: Navigate to the right page — use the page navigation to find the exact page where your signature is needed. A preview of each page is displayed so you can identify the correct signature line.
- Step 4: Place your signature — click on the page preview exactly where you want your signature to appear. A dashed outline shows you the placement before it is applied.
- Step 5: Download the signed PDF — click the apply button to embed your signature image into the PDF. Download the finished file and it is ready to send.
Common Use Cases
- Contracts and agreements — sign freelance contracts, rental agreements, or service agreements and return them quickly without printing.
- Permission forms — add your signature to school permission slips, medical consent forms, or event waivers from your computer or phone.
- Application forms — many job applications, government forms, and membership applications require a signature. Complete them digitally without a printer or scanner.
- Letters and correspondence — add a personal signature to formal letters, cover letters, or reference letters before sending them as PDF attachments.
- Internal approvals — sign off on purchase orders, expense reports, or project documents as part of your team's approval workflow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a legally binding electronic signature?
This tool adds a visual signature image to your PDF. In many informal and business contexts, a visual signature is sufficient to indicate agreement. However, for transactions that require legally binding electronic signatures with audit trails, timestamps, and identity verification, you should use a dedicated e-signature platform.
Is my signature stored anywhere?
No. Your signature is created in your browser and exists only in memory while you are using the tool. It is not saved, uploaded, or stored anywhere. Once you close the page, the signature data is gone.
Can I sign on a phone or tablet?
Yes. The drawing canvas supports touch input, so you can use your finger or a stylus to sign directly on your phone or tablet screen. This often produces the most natural-looking signatures.
Can I add multiple signatures to one document?
The tool is designed to place one signature per session. If you need to sign multiple pages or add additional signatures, download the signed PDF and then open it again in the tool to add another signature.
Tips for a Clean Signature
- Use a stylus or touchscreen if possible — drawing with a stylus on a tablet gives the most natural result. A mouse or trackpad works fine but may require a few practice attempts.
- Use the undo button — if a stroke does not look right, undo it and try again rather than starting over completely.
- Try the type option for speed — when appearance is less important than getting the document signed and returned quickly, the typed signature is fast and consistent.
- Zoom in on the page preview — make sure you are clicking on the correct signature line. The placement marker helps you confirm the position before applying.
Note: This tool adds a visual signature image to your PDF. For legally binding electronic signatures with audit trails and verification, consider dedicated e-signature platforms.