How to Fix Adobe Reader Cannot Digitally Sign a PDF
Question details
Users are unable to select a certificate or apply a digital signature to PDF documents, such as DoD forms, using Adobe Reader DC.
- Product
- Adobe Reader DC
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to sign official forms or secured documents using a certificate-based digital signature in Adobe Reader.
- Observed behavior
- The digital signature process fails or certificates cannot be selected in Adobe Reader DC, whereas the same document can be signed successfully using Adobe Acrobat Pro DC.
Ensure that your digital ID or certificate is properly installed on your computer and that you are not accidentally using the basic 'Fill & Sign' tool instead of the certificate-based signing workflow.
Use the Certificate-Based Signing Workflow
Bypass the standard Fill and Sign feature and explicitly use the Certificates tool to apply your digital ID.
Many users mistakenly use the basic 'Fill & Sign' tool, which does not support cryptographic digital IDs. Using the dedicated Certificates tool allows you to select your installed certificate and sign securely.
Launch Adobe Reader DC, click on the 'Tools' tab at the top left, scroll down to the 'Certificates' icon, and click 'Open'.
Click on 'Digitally Sign' from the top toolbar that appears. You may see a prompt instructing you to draw the signature area. Click 'OK' to acknowledge it.
Click and drag your mouse to draw a rectangle in the document where you want your digital signature to appear.
A dialog box will appear. Select your configured digital ID or certificate from the list, click 'Continue', and then click 'Sign' to finalize the process.
Save the Document as a Reader-Extended PDF
If you are the document creator, you must enable specific rights in Acrobat Pro to allow Adobe Reader users to sign the document.
Easily Digitally Sign PDFs with WPS Office
Avoid version restrictions and complex toolbars. WPS Office features a powerful built-in PDF editor that allows you to easily add digital signatures, manage certificates, and secure your official documents.
- 1. Open the PDF in WPS Office: Launch WPS Office and open your PDF document or form.
- 2. Navigate to the Protect Tab: Click on the 'Protect' tab located in the top ribbon menu to access security features.
- 3. Select Digital Signature: Click on 'Sign Document' or 'Digital Signature', then draw the area where you want the signature to appear.
- 4. Apply Your Certificate: Choose your digital ID from the list, enter your password if required, and apply your secure signature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need a digital ID to sign a PDF form?
A digital ID uses a cryptographic certificate to validate your identity. It binds your identity to the document and ensures that the PDF has not been altered or tampered with after it was signed, which is required for official documents like DoD forms.
What is the difference between 'Fill & Sign' and a digital signature?
'Fill & Sign' simply places a visual representation of your signature (like an image or drawn text) on the page without encryption. A digital signature uses a certificate to cryptographically secure the document and verify the signer's identity.
How can I get a digital ID if I don't have one?
You can purchase a digital ID from a trusted certificate authority (CA) for official use, or you can create a self-signed digital ID directly within Adobe Reader or WPS Office by following the prompts when you attempt to digitally sign a document.
