Stop printing and scanning just to sign a PDF
The old workflow — print the PDF, sign with a pen, scan it back — is slow, requires a printer and scanner, and produces a lower-quality image. Digital signatures let you sign any PDF directly in your browser in under a minute, with a cleaner result than a scanned handwritten signature.
How to add a signature to a PDF for free
- Go to ihatepdf.cv/edit-pdf-text — no sign-up, no account
- Upload the PDF you need to sign
- Click the Signature button in the toolbar
- Choose how to create your signature (see options below)
- Click on the page where you want to place it, resize and position as needed
- Click Download — your signed PDF has no watermark
Three ways to create your signature
- Draw — use your mouse, trackpad, or finger on a touchscreen to draw your actual signature. This looks the most natural and personal. Works especially well on mobile where you can use your finger directly on the screen.
- Type — type your name and choose from handwriting-style fonts. Quick for simple signings where a stylized text signature is acceptable.
- Upload — upload a PNG or JPG image of your existing signature. PNG with a transparent background works best — the transparency is preserved so the signature blends naturally with the document background.
How to sign a PDF on iPhone or Android
Open ihatepdf.cv/edit-pdf-text in Safari (iPhone) or Chrome (Android) on your phone. The draw mode works perfectly with your finger — you get a full-size drawing canvas. Draw your signature, tap to place it on the document, and download. The signed PDF saves to your phone's Files app or Downloads folder. No app installation needed.
Lock your signature after signing
After signing, use Flatten PDF to permanently merge the signature into the document. Once flattened, the signature cannot be moved, deleted, or tampered with by anyone who receives the file. For extra security, add a password using Encrypt PDF after flattening.
Are digital signatures legally valid?
In most countries, yes — for the majority of everyday documents like employment contracts, rental agreements, consent forms, and NDAs. The US ESIGN Act and EU eIDAS regulation both recognize electronic signatures as legally binding for most commercial documents. For high-stakes documents like property transfers, wills, or court filings, check the specific requirements in your jurisdiction — some require qualified electronic signatures with identity verification.
Frequently asked questions
Does the signed PDF have a watermark?
No. ihatepdf never adds watermarks to any file under any circumstances.
Is my signature stored anywhere?
No. Your signature is created and embedded entirely in your browser. Nothing is sent to any server. Your signature image is processed only in your browser's memory.
Can I sign multiple pages?
Yes. Place your signature on as many pages as needed in one session before downloading.
Can I sign a password-protected PDF?
You need to remove the password first, add your signature, then re-encrypt with Encrypt PDF if needed.