Adding Signatures to PDFs

Learn how to add digital signatures to your PDF documents.

Introduction to Digital Signatures

Digital signatures are an essential part of modern document workflows. They allow you to sign PDF documents electronically, eliminating the need to print, sign, and scan documents. EasyPdfViewer provides several ways to add signatures to your PDF documents, from simple image-based signatures to more secure digital certificate signatures.

In this guide, we'll explore the different types of signatures you can add to your PDF documents and how to use EasyPdfViewer's signature tools effectively.

Types of Signatures

EasyPdfViewer supports several types of signatures:

1. Handwritten Signatures

These are digital versions of your handwritten signature. You can create them by:

  • Drawing with your mouse or touchpad
  • Drawing on a touchscreen with your finger or stylus
  • Uploading an image of your signature

2. Text Signatures

These are typed signatures using various fonts to represent your name. They're quick and easy to create but may not be accepted in all situations.

3. Digital Certificate Signatures

These are cryptographically secure signatures that verify your identity and ensure the document hasn't been altered after signing. They require a digital certificate from a trusted certificate authority.

Note: The legal validity of electronic signatures varies by country and context. For important legal documents, consult with a legal professional about the appropriate type of signature to use.

Creating and Adding a Signature

Creating a Handwritten Signature

To create a handwritten signature in EasyPdfViewer:

  1. Click the "Signature" button in the toolbar.
  2. Select "Create Signature" from the dropdown menu.
  3. In the signature dialog, choose the "Draw" tab.
  4. Use your mouse, touchpad, or touchscreen to draw your signature in the signature area.
  5. If you make a mistake, click "Clear" to start over.
  6. When you're satisfied with your signature, click "Create".
  7. Your signature will be saved for future use.

Tip: For the best results when drawing your signature, use a stylus on a touchscreen device or a graphics tablet if available.

Uploading a Signature Image

If you already have an image of your signature:

  1. Click the "Signature" button in the toolbar.
  2. Select "Create Signature" from the dropdown menu.
  3. In the signature dialog, choose the "Upload" tab.
  4. Click "Choose File" and select the image file containing your signature.
  5. Adjust the signature as needed using the cropping and resizing tools.
  6. Click "Create" to save your signature.

Tip: For best results, use a signature image with a transparent background (PNG format) and a high resolution.

Creating a Text Signature

To create a typed signature:

  1. Click the "Signature" button in the toolbar.
  2. Select "Create Signature" from the dropdown menu.
  3. In the signature dialog, choose the "Type" tab.
  4. Enter your name in the text field.
  5. Select a font style from the available options.
  6. Adjust the size and color if needed.
  7. Click "Create" to save your signature.

Adding Your Signature to a Document

Once you've created a signature, you can add it to your PDF document:

  1. Navigate to the page where you want to add your signature.
  2. Click the "Signature" button in the toolbar.
  3. Select your saved signature from the dropdown menu.
  4. Your signature will appear on the document with a positioning frame.
  5. Click and drag to position the signature where you want it.
  6. Use the handles on the corners of the frame to resize the signature if needed.
  7. Click outside the signature to place it on the document.

Working with Digital Certificate Signatures

Understanding Digital Certificate Signatures

Digital certificate signatures provide a higher level of security and verification than simple image-based signatures. They use cryptographic technology to:

  • Verify the identity of the signer
  • Ensure the document hasn't been altered after signing
  • Include a timestamp to prove when the document was signed

Obtaining a Digital Certificate

To use digital certificate signatures, you first need to obtain a digital certificate from a trusted certificate authority (CA). Some common CAs include:

  • DocuSign
  • Adobe Sign
  • GlobalSign
  • DigiCert

The process for obtaining a certificate varies by provider but typically involves:

  1. Applying for a certificate through the CA's website
  2. Verifying your identity (may require submitting identification documents)
  3. Paying a fee (certificates typically have an annual cost)
  4. Installing the certificate on your device

Adding a Digital Certificate Signature

To add a digital certificate signature to your PDF document:

  1. Click the "Signature" button in the toolbar.
  2. Select "Digital Signature" from the dropdown menu.
  3. If prompted, select the digital certificate you want to use.
  4. Draw a rectangle where you want the signature to appear.
  5. In the signature dialog, enter any additional information required.
  6. Click "Sign" to add the digital signature to your document.

Warning: Once you add a digital certificate signature to a PDF, the document becomes locked to prevent further changes. Make sure your document is complete before adding a digital certificate signature.

Managing Signatures

Saving Multiple Signatures

EasyPdfViewer allows you to save multiple signatures for different purposes:

  1. Click the "Signature" button in the toolbar.
  2. Select "Manage Signatures" from the dropdown menu.
  3. In the Manage Signatures dialog, you can:
    • View all your saved signatures
    • Create new signatures
    • Edit existing signatures
    • Delete signatures you no longer need

Editing or Removing a Signature from a Document

To edit a signature you've already placed in your document:

  1. Click on the signature to select it.
  2. Drag to reposition it, or use the handles to resize it.
  3. To remove the signature, select it and press the Delete key, or right-click and select "Delete".

Note: Digital certificate signatures cannot be edited or removed once they've been applied to a document.

Best Practices for Digital Signatures

  • Choose the right type of signature for your needs. For casual documents, a handwritten or text signature may be sufficient. For legal or official documents, consider using a digital certificate signature.
  • Position your signature appropriately in the document, typically at the end of the document or in a designated signature field.
  • Keep your signatures secure. Don't share your digital certificates or signature images with others.
  • Consider adding a date alongside your signature using the text tool.
  • For important documents, consider adding initials to each page in addition to the full signature at the end.

Next Steps

Now that you've learned how to add signatures to your PDF documents, you can explore more advanced features: