PDF Editing Issues

How to Create a PDF Signature Field for Touchscreen Signing

Huda Qurayshi Oct 23, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to set up a PDF document so recipients can physically draw their signature using a digital pen or finger on a touchscreen device.

How to Create a PDF Signature Field for Touchscreen Signing

Product: PDF
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Preparing a PDF for external recipients to sign electronically via touchscreen devices.
Observed behavior: The user is unsure how to enable drawn touchscreen signatures and whether drawing a signature qualifies as a certificate-based digital signature.

Before you start

Ensure you know whether your document requires a legally binding certificate-based digital signature or simply a visual electronic signature (handwritten). For touchscreen drawing, you will need the standard electronic signature or Fill & Sign tools.

Solution 1Recommended

Add an Electronic Signature using Fill & Sign

Use the Fill & Sign feature to allow recipients to draw their handwritten signature directly on a touchscreen.

It is important to distinguish between an electronic signature (a drawn mark) and a digital signature (certificate-based). Drawing on a touchscreen creates an electronic signature, which is perfect for standard approvals but does not carry the cryptographic validation of a digital signature.

Open Fill & Sign

Open your PDF document and navigate to the 'Fill & Sign' or 'Sign' tool from the main menu.

Create a New Signature

Click on 'Create Signature' or select the existing signature field on the page.

Select the Draw Option

Choose the 'Draw' option in the signature prompt to enable touchscreen input.

Draw and Apply

Use your finger or a digital pen to write the signature on the screen, click 'Save' or 'OK', and place it on the document.

Add an Electronic Signature using Fill & Sign

Touchscreen Ready: This method works on any touchscreen device, including tablets, 2-in-1 laptops, and smartphones.

Solution 2

Add a Certificate-Based Digital Signature Field

If you need identity verification and cryptographic validation instead of just a visual mark, use a digital signature field.

Easy PDF Signing with WPS Office

Effortlessly Sign and Manage PDFs with WPS Office

WPS Office provides comprehensive PDF tools, allowing you to easily add drawn electronic signatures for touchscreens and apply secure digital certificates.

1. Open your PDF: Launch WPS Office and open the PDF document you need to sign.
2. Access the Sign Tool: Navigate to the 'Insert' or 'Fill & Sign' tab and click on the 'Sign' button.
3. Draw Your Signature: Click 'Create Signature', select the 'Draw' tab, and use your touchscreen or mouse to sign.
4. Place and Save: Click 'OK', position the generated signature on the PDF page, and save the file.

Easily create drawn signatures using a digital pen or touchscreen.Supports secure, certificate-based digital signatures for legal documents.Fully compatible with Adobe Acrobat PDF formats and workflows.Lightweight and free to download for Windows, Mac, and mobile devices.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a digital signature and an electronic signature?

An electronic signature is a digital representation of a handwritten mark, such as drawing on a touchscreen. A digital signature is a specific, secure type of electronic signature backed by a digital certificate that provides identity verification and cryptographic security.

Can I use my finger to sign a PDF on my phone or tablet?

Yes. By using the Fill & Sign or standard signature tools in modern PDF editors, you can select the 'Draw' option to sign with your finger or a stylus on any touchscreen device.

Does a drawn touchscreen signature carry legal weight?

In many jurisdictions, standard electronic signatures (drawn marks) are legally binding for most business transactions. However, highly sensitive or regulated documents often require a certificate-based digital signature for enhanced security.

Why does a digital signature field not let me draw my signature?

Certificate-based digital signature fields are designed to validate an electronic ID or digital certificate. To simply draw a signature, you should use the standard 'Sign' or 'Fill & Sign' feature instead of inserting a digital signature form field.

PDF Troubleshooting