Guide · Updated 2026
How to Sign a PDF Online for Free
Need to sign a PDF without printing, scanning, or installing software? This guide shows how to sign a PDF directly in your browser — type, draw, or upload your signature, place it anywhere on the document, and download the signed file. It works on desktop, iPhone, and Android.
Why sign PDFs online?
- Sign contracts, forms, invoices, and agreements without printing.
- No desktop software, plugins, or browser extensions to install.
- Files and signatures never leave your device — processing is local.
- Works the same on Windows, Mac, Chromebook, iPhone, and Android.
Step-by-step: Sign a PDF in your browser
- Open the free Sign PDF tool. In any browser, go to pdfxword.com/sign-pdf. The tool runs entirely on your device — no app, extension, or account needed.
- Upload the PDF you want to sign. Tap or click the upload area and choose the PDF you need to sign. The document loads in your browser and never leaves your device.
- Create your signature or initials. Click Create signature or Create initials. Draw with your finger, mouse, or stylus, type your name in a signature font, or upload an image of your signature.
- Place the signature on the PDF. Select your signature from the toolbar, then tap or click the exact spot on the page where it should go. Drag it to move or use the corner handle to resize.
- Download the signed PDF. Click Download signed PDF. The file is saved to your device. On mobile, the share sheet opens so you can email it, save it to Files, or send it to another app.
Can I sign a PDF on my phone or tablet?
Yes. The Sign PDF tool works in mobile Safari and Chrome. Use your finger or a stylus to draw your signature, place it on the document, then tap Download signed PDF. The share sheet opens so you can save the file to Files, Google Drive, Dropbox, or Mail.
What signature styles are supported?
PDFxWord lets you sign three ways:
- Draw — freehand signature with a mouse, finger, trackpad, or stylus.
- Type — choose a professional signature font and type your name.
- Upload — use an existing image of your signature or initials.
Is it safe to sign PDFs online?
With PDFxWord, yes. Many online signature tools upload your PDF to a server. PDFxWord runs entirely in your browser, so your document and signature are never transmitted, stored, or seen by anyone else.
Frequently asked questions
- How do I sign a PDF for free?
- Open pdfxword.com/sign-pdf in your browser, upload the PDF, create or upload your signature, place it on the document, and download the signed PDF. It's free, private, and no account is required.
- Can I sign a PDF on my iPhone or Android?
- Yes. The Sign PDF tool works in Safari, Chrome, and other modern mobile browsers. Draw your signature with your finger or stylus and save the signed PDF directly to your phone.
- Is my signature uploaded to a server?
- No. The PDF and signature are processed locally in your browser. Nothing is uploaded, stored, or shared with anyone else.
- Can I add both a signature and initials?
- Yes. Create both a signature and initials in the same session, then place each one wherever you need on the document.
- Are electronic signatures created here legally valid?
- Electronic signatures are legally recognized in many countries for common documents, including the US under the ESIGN Act and the EU under eIDAS. For regulated or notarized documents, check your local requirements.