Sign PDF Free Online - eSign PDF, Fill & Sign PDF Documents

Electronic Signature (eSign)

An electronic signature is any digital form of signing a document - it can be a scanned image of your handwritten signature, typed name, or drawn signature on a touchscreen. FastTools provides electronic signature functionality where you create and place your signature visually on PDF documents. Electronic signatures are legally binding under the ESIGN Act (USA) and eIDAS (EU) for most documents.

• • Simpler to create and use
• • Legally valid for most business documents
• • No certificates or keys required
• • Perfect for contracts, agreements, forms

Digital Signature (DSC)

A digital signature uses cryptographic certificates (DSC - Digital Signature Certificate) to verify the signer's identity and ensure document integrity. It includes encrypted data that can be validated by third parties. Digital signatures are required for government filings, tax returns, and high-security documents. They involve a Certificate Authority (CA) and private/public key pairs.

• • Requires a DSC from Certificate Authority
• • Provides identity verification
• • Detects document tampering
• • Required for legal and government docs

❌ "Can't sign PDF" or "Sign PDF greyed out"

If the sign option is greyed out in Adobe Reader or your PDF viewer, the document may be locked or protected. Upload it to FastTools instead - our tool can add signatures to most PDFs regardless of protection status. Alternatively, try using a different PDF viewer or browser.

📱 Signature looks pixelated or blurry

For best quality signatures, use the "Type" mode with a clear font, or upload a high-resolution image (300 DPI minimum) of your handwritten signature. When drawing, use smooth strokes and avoid rapid movements. On touchscreens, use a stylus for more precise lines.

🔒 Signed PDF won't open or shows errors

If the downloaded signed PDF won't open, try opening it in a different PDF reader (Adobe Reader, Chrome, Edge). Ensure your original PDF wasn't corrupted. Clear your browser cache and try signing again. The signed PDF should be compatible with all standard PDF readers.

📄 Need to sign multiple pages

Our tool supports multi-page PDFs. Use the page navigation arrows to switch between pages. Place signatures on each page as needed. All signatures are saved and will be included in the final downloaded PDF. You can add multiple signatures on the same page or across different pages.

⚡ Tool not working on phone

Make sure you're using a modern browser (Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Edge). Enable JavaScript if it's disabled. Clear browser cache and reload the page. For iOS, use Safari or Chrome. For Android, Chrome works best. Ensure your browser is updated to the latest version.

How do I sign a PDF for free?

Upload your PDF to our tool, create your signature by drawing, typing, or uploading an image, place it on the document, and download the signed PDF. Completely free with no signup required.

Is electronic signature on PDF legally binding?

Yes, electronic signatures are legally binding in most countries. In the USA, the ESIGN Act (2000) gives electronic signatures the same legal status as handwritten signatures. In the EU, the eIDAS regulation provides a legal framework for electronic signatures. However, some documents like wills or court orders may require handwritten signatures.

Can I sign a PDF on my phone?

Yes! Our PDF signature tool works perfectly on mobile devices. You can sign PDFs on iPhone, Android phones, and tablets by drawing your signature with your finger or stylus directly on the touchscreen.

Is it safe to sign PDF online with FastTools?

Absolutely. All processing happens in your browser using JavaScript. Your PDF file never uploads to our servers or any third party. The signed document is created entirely on your device, ensuring complete privacy and security for sensitive contracts.

Can I add multiple signatures to one PDF?

Yes, you can add as many signatures as needed. After placing your first signature, click "Add Signature" again to create additional signatures or initials in different locations on the document.

What's the difference between this and DocuSign?

DocuSign is a paid service ($10-40/month) that offers advanced features like signature workflow, email reminders, and audit trails. FastTools is completely free and focuses on simple, secure PDF signing with complete privacy (no server uploads). For basic signing needs, our tool is faster and more private.

Can I sign the same PDF multiple times?

Yes, you can upload a previously signed PDF and add additional signatures. This is useful for documents that require multiple parties to sign, or when you need to add your signature to a PDF that someone else has already signed.

Does the signature tool add watermarks?

No, we never add watermarks to your signed PDFs. The downloaded document is clean and professional, ready to send to clients, employers, or legal parties.

How to sign PDF with digital signature?

To sign PDF with digital signature (DSC), you need a Digital Signature Certificate from a Certificate Authority. In Adobe Acrobat, go to Tools → Certificates → Digitally Sign. Select your certificate, choose signature appearance, and place it on the document. For simple electronic signatures without certificates, use FastTools - upload PDF, create signature (draw/type/upload), place it, and download. Electronic signatures are legally valid for most documents and don't require certificates.

How to sign PDF document?

To sign a PDF document, upload it to FastTools, create your signature using one of three methods (draw with mouse/finger, type your name in elegant font, or upload signature image), click on the PDF where you want to place the signature, adjust size and position by dragging, and download the signed PDF. No software installation or account creation needed. Works on all devices - Windows, Mac, iPhone, Android, iPad.

What is PDF stands for?

PDF stands for "Portable Document Format" - a file format created by Adobe in 1993. It's designed to present documents consistently across different devices, operating systems, and software applications. PDFs preserve fonts, images, layout, and formatting regardless of where they're opened. This makes them ideal for contracts, agreements, forms, and official documents that need to look identical on all devices.

How to sign PDF form?

To sign a PDF form, first fill in all required fields using Adobe Reader, Chrome, or Edge. Save the filled form to your computer. Then upload it to FastTools PDF Sign tool, create your signature, click on the signature field or line to place your signature, and download the completed signed form. For fillable forms with signature fields, you can also sign directly in Adobe Reader by clicking the signature field and following the prompts.

How to sign PDF without Adobe?

Sign PDF without Adobe by using FastTools - a browser-based tool that requires no software installation. Simply visit fasttools.store/pdf-tools/pdf-sign in any browser (Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Edge), upload your PDF, create your signature, place it on the document, and download. Works on all platforms including Windows, Mac, Linux, iPhone, and Android. Completely free with no signup required.

What does PDF mean?

PDF means "Portable Document Format." It's a universal file format that captures all elements of a printed document as an electronic image you can view, navigate, print, or share. PDFs can contain text, images, forms, multimedia elements, and digital signatures. They look the same on any device, making them the standard format for official documents, contracts, invoices, and forms.

Can you sign a PDF?

Yes, you can sign a PDF electronically using various methods. The easiest way is with FastTools - upload your PDF, create a signature (draw, type, or upload image), place it anywhere on the document, and download the signed PDF. You can also sign PDFs using Adobe Acrobat, Preview (Mac), or mobile apps. Electronic signatures are legally binding for most documents under the ESIGN Act (USA) and eIDAS (EU).

Can't sign PDF - what to do?

If you can't sign a PDF, the document might be locked, protected, or the signature feature may be disabled in your PDF viewer. Try these solutions: 1) Use FastTools browser-based tool which works with most PDFs, 2) Try a different PDF viewer (Adobe Reader, Chrome, Edge), 3) Check if the PDF is password-protected and unlock it first, 4) Ensure JavaScript is enabled in your browser, 5) Clear browser cache and try again. If issues persist, the PDF file may be corrupted - request a new copy.

How to write a signature on PDF?

To write a signature on PDF, use FastTools: 1) Upload your PDF, 2) Select "Draw" mode, 3) Use your mouse (on computer) or finger/stylus (on phone/tablet) to write your signature directly on a blank canvas, 4) Click "Save Signature" to confirm, 5) Click on the PDF where you want to place your written signature, 6) Adjust size and position as needed, 7) Download the signed PDF. For touchscreen devices, use a stylus for smoother, more natural-looking signatures.

How to sign PDF on computer?

To sign PDF on computer (Windows or Mac), open your browser and visit FastTools PDF Sign tool. Upload your PDF file, create your signature by drawing with mouse/trackpad, typing your name, or uploading a scanned signature image. Click on the PDF preview to place your signature where needed. Drag to reposition if necessary. Download the signed PDF to your computer. No software installation needed - works entirely in your browser with complete privacy.

Can you sign PDF with Adobe Reader?

Yes, you can sign PDF with Adobe Reader (free version). Open the PDF in Adobe Reader, click "Fill & Sign" in the right panel, click the "Sign" icon, choose "Add Signature," create your signature by drawing, typing, or uploading an image, then place it on the document. However, some features require Adobe Acrobat (paid). For a simpler, free alternative with no limitations, use FastTools which offers the same functionality without software installation.

Can you electronically sign a PDF?

Yes, you can electronically sign a PDF and it's legally binding in most countries. Electronic signatures (eSignatures) are recognized under the ESIGN Act (USA), UETA (USA), and eIDAS (EU). Use FastTools to create and place electronic signatures on PDFs - draw your signature, type your name, or upload a signature image. Electronic signatures are valid for contracts, agreements, forms, invoices, and most business documents. Only certain documents like wills or court filings may require handwritten signatures.

Can you sign PDF on iPhone?

Yes, you can easily sign PDF on iPhone using FastTools. Open Safari on your iPhone, visit fasttools.store/pdf-tools/pdf-sign, tap "Upload PDF File," select your PDF from Files app or iCloud Drive, draw your signature with your finger on the touchscreen (or use Apple Pencil if available), tap to place it on the document, and download the signed PDF. Works on all iOS devices including iPad. Alternatively, use the built-in Markup feature in iOS Files app.

Where to sign PDF for free?

Sign PDF for free at fasttools.store/pdf-tools/pdf-sign - a completely free, browser-based tool with no signup required. Other options include: iLovePDF (limited free use), Smallpdf (limited), Adobe Fill & Sign (basic features), and Google Drive (basic). FastTools offers advantages over competitors: no file uploads to servers (100% private), no file size limits, unlimited signatures, and works offline after initial load. All processing happens in your browser.

Cannot sign PDF - troubleshooting

If you cannot sign a PDF, try these solutions: 1) Check if PDF is password-protected or restricted - unlock it first, 2) Ensure your browser has JavaScript enabled, 3) Update your PDF viewer or browser to the latest version, 4) Clear browser cache and cookies, 5) Try a different browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari), 6) Use FastTools which bypasses most PDF restrictions, 7) If using Adobe Reader, check if "Fill & Sign" tool is available. If the PDF is corrupted, request a fresh copy from the sender.

How to sign PDF on iPhone?

To sign PDF on iPhone: Method 1 (FastTools) - Open Safari, go to fasttools.store/pdf-tools/pdf-sign, upload PDF, draw signature with finger, place it, download. Method 2 (Files app) - Open PDF in Files app, tap Markup icon (pen tip), tap signature icon (+), draw signature, place it, tap Done. Method 3 (Preview) - Open in Preview, tap Markup, add signature. FastTools offers more flexibility for signature placement and works on all iOS versions.

Is PDF signature valid?

Yes, PDF signatures are legally valid and binding. Electronic signatures on PDFs are recognized under: ESIGN Act (2000) in USA, UETA in most US states, eIDAS Regulation in EU, and similar laws in 180+ countries. PDF signatures have the same legal weight as handwritten signatures for contracts, agreements, forms, and business documents. However, certain documents (wills, divorce papers, court notices) may still require traditional handwritten signatures. Digital signatures with certificates provide additional authentication and non-repudiation.

What is DocHub PDF sign and edit?

DocHub is a paid online PDF editor and signing tool that offers features like editing, signing, filling forms, and annotation. It charges $4.99-9.99/month for premium features. FastTools provides similar PDF signing functionality completely free with key advantages: no signup required, files never uploaded to servers (100% private), unlimited free signatures, no watermarks, and works offline. For simple signing needs, FastTools is a better free alternative. DocHub is suitable if you need advanced editing features beyond signing.

How to sign PDF with DSC (Digital Signature Certificate)?

To sign PDF with DSC: 1) Obtain a Digital Signature Certificate from a licensed Certificate Authority (CA) like DigiCert, Sectigo, or government-approved CA, 2) Install the certificate on your computer, 3) Open PDF in Adobe Acrobat (not Reader), 4) Go to Tools → Certificates → Digitally Sign, 5) Select your DSC certificate, 6) Choose signature appearance, 7) Place signature on document, 8) Enter certificate password. DSC is required for government tenders, company filings, and legal documents. For regular contracts, use FastTools' electronic signatures.

How to sign PDF on Mac?

To sign PDF on Mac: Method 1 (Preview - built-in) - Open PDF in Preview, click Markup toolbar icon, click Signature button, create signature using trackpad or camera, place it on document. Method 2 (FastTools - more flexible) - Open Safari, visit fasttools.store/pdf-tools/pdf-sign, upload PDF, create signature, place anywhere on document, download. FastTools offers better signature placement control and works across all browsers. Both methods are free and don't require Adobe.

Cannot sign PDF with certificate - why?

Common reasons you cannot sign PDF with certificate: 1) Certificate expired or not installed correctly, 2) Using Adobe Reader instead of Acrobat (Reader has limited certificate features), 3) PDF is locked or has signing restrictions, 4) Certificate not from trusted Certificate Authority, 5) Smart card/USB token not connected or drivers not installed, 6) Browser/Acrobat version incompatibility. Solutions: Verify certificate validity, use Adobe Acrobat DC, unlock PDF, reinstall certificate, check hardware token connection. For non-certificate signing, use FastTools for simple electronic signatures.

How to sign PDF on iPad?

To sign PDF on iPad: Method 1 - Open Safari, go to fasttools.store/pdf-tools/pdf-sign, upload PDF, draw signature with Apple Pencil or finger, place it, download. Method 2 - Use Files app: open PDF, tap Markup icon, tap (+), create signature, place it, save. Method 3 - Adobe Fill & Sign app (free from App Store). Apple Pencil provides the best signature experience on iPad Pro, Air, and standard models that support it. FastTools works on all iPad models and doesn't require app installation.

How to sign PDF free?

Sign PDF free using FastTools: 1) Visit fasttools.store/pdf-tools/pdf-sign in any browser, 2) Upload your PDF (no signup needed), 3) Create signature by drawing, typing, or uploading image, 4) Click on PDF to place signature, 5) Download signed PDF. Completely free with unlimited signatures, no watermarks, no file size limits. Other free options: Adobe Reader Fill & Sign (basic features), Preview on Mac, built-in tools on iOS/Android. FastTools advantage: 100% privacy as files never upload to servers.

How to sign PDF on phone?

To sign PDF on phone (iPhone or Android): Open your mobile browser (Safari for iPhone, Chrome for Android), visit fasttools.store/pdf-tools/pdf-sign, tap "Upload PDF File," select PDF from your device, draw your signature using your finger or stylus on the touchscreen, tap on the PDF preview to place your signature, adjust position and size, tap "Download Signed PDF." Works on all smartphones and tablets. For best results, use landscape orientation and zoom in for precise placement.

Where can I sign PDF?

You can sign PDF at: 1) FastTools (fasttools.store/pdf-tools/pdf-sign) - completely free, private, no signup, 2) Adobe Fill & Sign - free basic features, 3) iLovePDF - limited free use, 4) Smallpdf - limited free, 5) DocuSign - paid service with free trial, 6) Built-in tools: Preview (Mac), Edge PDF viewer (Windows), Files app (iOS), Adobe Reader mobile. Recommended: FastTools for best privacy (no server uploads), unlimited free use, and works on all devices without software installation.

Can signed PDF be edited?

Yes, signed PDFs can be edited, but editing will typically invalidate digital signatures (those with certificates). Electronic signatures (like those from FastTools) become part of the PDF as images and can be edited with PDF editing software, though this may be considered tampering. To protect signed PDFs from editing: 1) Use digital signatures with DSC which show "Invalid" if document is modified, 2) Apply document permissions/restrictions, 3) Flatten the PDF to merge signature with content. For legal documents, always keep original unsigned and signed versions separately.

How to sign PDF on Android?

To sign PDF on Android: Method 1 - Open Chrome browser, go to fasttools.store/pdf-tools/pdf-sign, tap upload, select PDF from Downloads or Drive, draw signature with finger or S Pen (Samsung), place it, download. Method 2 - Use Adobe Fill & Sign app (free from Play Store). Method 3 - Google Drive: Open PDF, tap Edit icon, add signature. FastTools works on all Android devices (Samsung, Google Pixel, OnePlus, Xiaomi, etc.) and doesn't require app installation. Works in Chrome, Firefox, and Edge browsers.

What app to sign PDF?

Best apps to sign PDF: 1) FastTools (web-based, no app needed) - completely free, most private, 2) Adobe Fill & Sign (free app) - iOS and Android, 3) SignEasy (freemium) - good for mobile, 4) DocuSign (paid) - enterprise features, 5) Adobe Acrobat Reader (free) - desktop and mobile. Recommendation: Use FastTools browser tool instead of downloading apps - it's faster, more private (no server uploads), takes no storage space, and works identically across all devices. Only install apps if you need offline signing capability.

What is sign PDF?

Sign PDF means adding your signature (electronic or digital) to a PDF document to indicate your approval, agreement, or authentication. Electronic signing involves placing a visual representation of your signature (image, drawing, or typed name) on the PDF. Digital signing uses cryptographic certificates for identity verification and document integrity. Signing PDFs is used for contracts, agreements, forms, invoices, applications, and legal documents. It's legally binding in most countries and eliminates the need to print, sign by hand, and scan documents.

What is e-sign PDF?

E-sign PDF (electronic sign PDF) is the process of adding an electronic signature to a PDF document without printing it. Electronic signatures can be created by drawing, typing, or uploading an image of your signature. E-signing is legally recognized under the ESIGN Act (USA) and eIDAS (EU) and has the same legal validity as handwritten signatures for most documents. Benefits: faster document processing, no printing/scanning needed, environmentally friendly, remote signing capability. Use FastTools for free, secure e-signing with complete privacy.

Why sign PDF?

Sign PDF documents for several important reasons: 1) Legal validity - indicates agreement and acceptance of terms, 2) Authentication - proves document came from you, 3) Non-repudiation - you cannot deny signing it later, 4) Document integrity - digital signatures reveal if document was altered after signing, 5) Efficiency - faster than printing, signing, and scanning, 6) Remote work - sign documents from anywhere, 7) Cost savings - reduces paper, ink, and shipping costs, 8) Environmental - eliminates paper waste. Electronic signatures are legally binding for contracts, agreements, forms, and most business documents.

How do you sign and date a PDF?

To sign and date a PDF: 1) Upload PDF to FastTools, 2) Create your signature using draw/type/upload method, 3) Click to place signature on the signature line, 4) For the date, use "Type" mode to add current date (e.g., "12/15/2024" or "December 15, 2024"), 5) Click to place date near signature or on date line, 6) Download signed and dated PDF. Alternatively, some PDFs have auto-fill date fields. In Adobe Reader, you can also use "Add Text" tool to type the date. Always verify date format requirements (MM/DD/YYYY vs DD/MM/YYYY) for international documents.

How to sign PDF digitally?

To sign PDF digitally (two methods): Method 1 - Digital Signature with Certificate: Obtain DSC from Certificate Authority, install certificate, open PDF in Adobe Acrobat, use "Digitally Sign" feature, select certificate, place signature. Provides cryptographic authentication. Method 2 - Electronic Signature (simpler): Use FastTools, create signature, place on PDF, download. For most business needs, electronic signatures (Method 2) are sufficient and legally valid. Use digital signatures with certificates only when required for government filings, legal contracts, or regulated industries.

Why I cannot sign a PDF?

Common reasons you cannot sign a PDF: 1) PDF is password-protected or has restrictions - unlock it first, 2) Using outdated PDF viewer - update Adobe Reader or browser, 3) PDF is corrupted - request new copy, 4) JavaScript disabled in browser - enable it in settings, 5) Browser compatibility issues - try Chrome, Firefox, or Edge, 6) PDF form doesn't have signature fields - use FastTools to add signature anywhere, 7) Insufficient permissions on device - check file/folder permissions, 8) PDF opened in read-only mode - save copy and reopen. Solution: Use FastTools browser tool which works with most PDFs regardless of restrictions.

PDF sign does not work - troubleshooting

If PDF sign does not work, try these fixes: 1) Clear browser cache and cookies, 2) Disable browser extensions temporarily, 3) Try different browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari), 4) Update browser to latest version, 5) Enable JavaScript in browser settings, 6) Check internet connection for online tools, 7) Ensure PDF is not corrupted - try opening in different viewer, 8) Restart browser/computer, 9) Try different PDF signing tool (FastTools, Adobe Reader), 10) Check PDF file permissions, 11) Disable antivirus temporarily, 12) Use incognito/private browsing mode. If all else fails, request fresh PDF copy from sender.