PDF Editing Issues

How to Add Timestamps to Electronic Signatures in Acrobat iPad App

John Wilson Oct 19, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user wants to know how to include a timestamp when electronically signing PDF forms using the Adobe Acrobat app on an iPad.

How to Add Timestamps to Electronic Signatures in Acrobat for iPad

Product: Adobe Acrobat Reader Mobile
Device & OS: iPadOS
Scenario: Completing and electronically signing online forms on an iPad.
Observed behavior: The user is unable to find a built-in option to append a timestamp to their electronic signature in the iPad application.

Before you start

Verify that you are using the latest version of the Acrobat app on your iPad, as feature sets for mobile platforms are frequently updated by the developer.

Solution 1Recommended

Workarounds for Missing Timestamp Feature in Acrobat for iPad

Since the Acrobat Reader mobile app currently lacks the functionality to automatically append timestamps to signatures, you can use these alternative methods.

Mobile versions of PDF readers are generally streamlined for basic viewing and editing. Advanced features, such as cryptographic digital certificate timestamping, are often reserved for full desktop software.

Add the date manually

Open your PDF in the Acrobat iPad app, tap the 'Edit' or 'Fill & Sign' icon, select the 'Add Text' tool, and manually type the current date and time immediately next to your electronic signature.

Use the desktop version for certified timestamps

If you require a cryptographically secure timestamp, transfer the PDF document to a Mac or Windows PC. Open it in the desktop version of Adobe Acrobat and use the 'Certificates' tool to digitally sign the document.

Submit a feature request

Navigate to the official Acrobat feedback form online and submit a request to the product team, asking them to consider adding automated timestamp support to the iPad app in a future update.

Workarounds for Missing Timestamp Feature in Acrobat for iPad

Legal Requirements: Check your local laws or corporate guidelines to ensure that a manually typed date is legally acceptable for the specific form you are signing.

Sign and Date PDF Documents Easily with WPS Office

While some mobile apps restrict advanced signature features, WPS Office provides a comprehensive PDF toolkit. You can easily add, manage, and date your electronic signatures on both desktop and mobile platforms.

1. Open the PDF: Launch the WPS Office application and open the PDF form you need to sign.
2. Access the Signature Tool: Navigate to the 'Insert' or 'Fill & Sign' tab and tap or click on the 'Sign' button.
3. Create Your Signature: Draw, type, or upload an image of your signature to place it on the document.
4. Add the Date and Time: Use the 'Insert Text' feature to manually type the accurate timestamp next to your placed signature.
5. Save the Signed Document: Adjust the placement of your signature and timestamp, then save the newly signed PDF to your device or cloud storage.

Add text, dates, and electronic signatures to PDF forms seamlessly without advanced restrictions.Highly compatible with standard PDF files and all Microsoft Office document formats.Cross-platform support ensures you can read, sign, and edit documents on your PC, Mac, iOS, or Android device.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I manually add a date and time to my signature in Acrobat for iPad?

Yes. While automatic timestamps aren't supported, you can use the 'Fill & Sign' or 'Add Text' tool to manually type the current date and time next to your electronic signature.

How do I add a certified timestamp to a PDF signature?

To add a certified, cryptographic timestamp to a digital signature, you need to use the desktop version of Adobe Acrobat or a comprehensive desktop PDF editor that supports digital certificate-based signing.

Is there a way to request the timestamp feature for the Acrobat mobile app?

Yes, Adobe encourages user feedback. You can submit a feature request through the official Acrobat feedback form online to ask the product team to include automated timestamps in future iPad updates.

PDF Troubleshooting