How to Enable Multiple Digital Signatures in a PDF Document
Question details
The user needs to configure a PDF document to allow sequential digital signatures from multiple people without locking the file.
- Product
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Routing a PDF document that requires official digital signatures from two or more individuals sequentially.
- Observed behavior
- After the first person digitally signs the document, the PDF locks or disables the signature option, preventing subsequent users from adding their signatures.
Ensure you have access to the original, unsigned version of the PDF document, as a PDF that has already been locked by a previous signer cannot be modified.
Configure Pre-Defined Certified Digital Signature Fields
Creating individual digital signature fields for each signer before distributing the document ensures the signing workflow permits multiple signatures.
When a document is signed using standard fill-and-sign tools, the PDF is often flattened or locked to protect the integrity of the first signature. By preparing the document with dedicated signature fields, you instruct the PDF reader to expect subsequent cryptographic signatures without invalidating the previous ones.
Open the original, unsigned PDF document in your advanced PDF editor (such as WPS Office or Adobe Acrobat Pro).
Navigate to the 'Form' or 'Prepare Form' tools and select the 'Digital Signature' field option. Draw a distinct signature box for each person required to sign.
Right-click each signature field, select 'Properties', and check the 'Signed' tab. Ensure that no field is set to 'Lock document after signing' unless it is the final required signature.
Save the prepared PDF and send it to the first signer. Instruct them to click specifically inside their designated signature box to sign.
Instruct Signers Not to Lock the Document
Prevent the first signer from unintentionally locking the entire document upon applying their digital certificate.
Easily Manage Multiple Digital Signatures with WPS Office
WPS Office provides robust PDF editing and form creation tools, allowing you to easily add multiple certified signature fields, protect document integrity, and streamline your signing workflows.
- 1. Open your PDF: Launch WPS Office and open your unsigned PDF document.
- 2. Access signature tools: Navigate to the 'Protect' tab and click on 'Digital Signature'.
- 3. Draw fields: Click and drag to create multiple signature boxes where your signers need to authorize the document.
- 4. Apply signatures securely: Share the document. Each user can click their respective field to apply their digital certificate without locking out the others.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my PDF lock after the first digital signature?
This usually happens because the first signer checked the 'Lock Document After Signing' option during the signing process, or the document creator applied a certification level that prevents any further changes, including additional signatures.
Can I add a signature to an already certified PDF?
Yes, but only if the original creator configured the certification to allow 'Form fill-in and digital signatures'. If the certification was set to allow 'No changes', subsequent signatures will be blocked.
Is there a difference between the 'Fill & Sign' tool and a Digital Signature?
Yes. Standard 'Fill & Sign' tools usually apply a flattened visual image of your signature, which can restrict further editing. A digital signature uses a secure, cryptographic certificate to verify identity and track changes, which is required for multi-signer workflows.
How can I remove a digital signature that locked the PDF?
If you are the person who applied the digital signature, you can right-click your signature and select 'Clear Signature' to unlock the file. If someone else applied it, you will need to request an unsigned copy of the document or ask them to clear their signature.
