PDF Editing Issues

How to Add an Image Signature Field Next to a Digital Signature in Acrobat

Natalie Taylor Oct 23, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to create a PDF form field that allows signers to insert a custom image of their handwritten signature alongside a standard digital signature.

How to Add an Image Signature Field Next to a Digital Signature in Acrobat

Product: Adobe Acrobat Pro
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Designing a PDF form that requires both a visual handwritten signature upload and a certified digital signature for completion.
Observed behavior: The user is looking for the correct tool or workflow to place a functional image insertion field adjacent to the digital signature block within the PDF document.

Before you start

Ensure you are using the desktop version of Adobe Acrobat Pro DC, as adding specialized form fields like image signatures is not supported in Acrobat online services.

Solution 1Recommended

Add an Image Field Using the Prepare Form Tool in Acrobat Pro

Use the Prepare Form mode in Adobe Acrobat Pro DC to insert a dedicated image field where users can upload a picture of their handwritten signature.

Adding an image field allows users to click and browse their computer for a signature image to insert directly into the PDF. It is important to remember that an image signature is merely a visual representation and does not provide the cryptographic tamper-evident protection of a certificate-based digital signature.

Open the Prepare Form tool

Launch Adobe Acrobat Pro DC, open your PDF document, navigate to the 'Tools' menu, and select 'Prepare Form' to enter editing mode.

Insert the image field

Click the 'Add an Image Field' icon in the top toolbar. Drag your cursor to draw the field exactly where you want it, such as right next to the existing digital signature block.

Adjust field properties

Right-click the newly created image field and select 'Properties'. Here you can name the field, adjust its appearance, and set tooltip instructions for the signer.

Save and distribute the form

Close the form editing mode to preview the document, then save the PDF file before distributing it to the users who need to sign.

Add an Image Field Using the Prepare Form Tool in Acrobat Pro

Security Notice: An image signature field does not provide the same legal authentication as a digital signature. Always use certified digital signature workflows (like Acrobat Sign) when legally verifiable signing is strictly required.

Efficient PDF Editing

Easily Add Signatures to PDFs with WPS Office

WPS Office offers a robust and intuitive PDF editor that makes it incredibly easy to insert handwritten signature images, fill out PDF forms, and manage document workflows without needing expensive software.

1. Open your PDF: Launch WPS Office and open your PDF document using the WPS PDF tool.
2. Access the Signature tool: Navigate to the 'Insert' or 'Fill & Sign' tab on the top ribbon and click on the 'Sign' button.
3. Create your image signature: Select 'Create Signature', choose the 'Image' option, and upload the picture file of your handwritten signature.
4. Place and resize: Click anywhere on the document, such as next to an existing digital signature area, to place the image. Drag the corners to resize it perfectly.

Quickly insert custom image signatures into any PDF documentFully compatible with standard Adobe Acrobat PDF formats and formsLightweight, fast-loading, and highly cost-effective for daily PDF tasks

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add an image signature field using Acrobat online services?

No, this feature is not possible with Acrobat online services. You must use the desktop version of Adobe Acrobat Pro DC to create and edit custom PDF form fields like the image signature field.

Does an image signature have the same legal validity as a digital signature?

No. An image signature is simply a visual mark on the page and does not offer the backend authentication or tamper-evident security of a certificate-based digital signature. For legally binding documents, a certified digital signature is recommended.

Why can't I edit the image field properties after placing it?

You must be actively in the 'Prepare Form' mode to right-click and edit field properties. Also, ensure the document is not secured against editing or locked by a previously applied certificate digital signature.

PDF Troubleshooting