Guide
How to electronically sign a PDF
An electronic signature is simply a signature applied to a digital document instead of paper. This guide explains exactly how to electronically sign a PDF in a few minutes, what counts as a valid e-signature, and how it differs from a cryptographic digital signature.
Updated June 2, 2026
Step by step
- 01
Open your PDF in the signer
Upload the PDF you need to sign to the DocSignHub signer. It loads in your browser with no account and no server upload.
- 02
Apply your electronic signature
Create your e-signature by drawing it, typing your name in a handwriting font, or uploading an image of your handwritten signature.
- 03
Position it where the document requires
Drag the signature onto the signature line on the correct page, resize it to fit, and add the date next to it.
- 04
Download and send
Export the signed PDF and return it by email or upload it wherever it is requested. The recipient sees a standard signed document.
Electronic signature vs digital signature
The two terms are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. An electronic signature is any electronic mark indicating intent to sign — a drawn, typed, or image signature placed on a document. This is what the vast majority of agreements require.
A digital signature is a specific, cryptographic technology that uses a certificate to mathematically bind a signer's identity to a file and detect tampering. It is required only in specialized contexts, such as some government filings or certified documents. For everyday contracts, an electronic signature is what people mean and what is needed.
Are electronic signatures legally binding?
Yes, for most documents. In the United States, the ESIGN Act and UETA give electronic signatures the same legal effect as handwritten ones. The EU recognizes them under eIDAS, and most other countries have equivalent laws.
What makes an e-signature hold up is evidence of intent and agreement: the signer chose to sign, knew what they were signing, and the document was not altered afterward. Keeping the final signed PDF and any surrounding email thread is usually enough for standard business agreements.
When you might still need a wet or digital signature
A few document types are excepted from e-signature laws or carry their own formal requirements — certain wills and trusts, some real-estate deeds, and specific court or government filings. For those, confirm the exact requirement, which may be a notarized wet signature or a certificate-based digital signature, before signing electronically.
Frequently asked questions
What is the easiest way to electronically sign a PDF?+
Open the PDF in a browser signer, add your signature by drawing, typing, or uploading an image, place it on the page, and download. No software or account is required.
Is an electronically signed PDF legally binding?+
For most documents, yes. Laws like the US ESIGN Act and EU eIDAS give electronic signatures the same standing as handwritten ones. A small set of documents may still require a wet or notarized signature.
Is a typed signature a valid electronic signature?+
Yes. A typed name in a handwriting font can be a valid electronic signature when it reflects your intent to sign. Drawn and uploaded signatures work the same way.