PDF Security & Access Issues

How to Open a PDF and Add a Digital Signature in Adobe Acrobat

Algirdas Jasaitis Oct 19, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to learn how to open a PDF document and apply a digital signature or request electronic signatures from others using Adobe Acrobat.

How to Open a PDF and Add a Digital Signature in Adobe Acrobat

Product: Adobe Acrobat
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Reviewing a PDF document that requires personal authorization or gathering signatures from third-party recipients.
Observed behavior: The user wants to successfully access the Fill & Sign or Request e-signatures functionality to finalize the signing process on a PDF file.

Before you start

Ensure that your PDF document is not restricted by password security or author permissions, as read-only files cannot be digitally signed.

Solution 1Recommended

Use the Fill & Sign Tool to Add Your Own Signature

This is the most direct method to apply your personal handwritten signature or initials to a PDF document.

The Fill & Sign tool allows you to type, draw, or insert an image of your physical signature directly into the document. This method is ideal for quick authorizations where cryptographic certificates are not strictly required.

Open the PDF document

Launch Adobe Acrobat on your device, click on 'File', then select 'Open' to browse and open the PDF you need to sign.

Access Fill & Sign

Navigate to the right-hand tools pane and click on 'Fill & Sign'. Alternatively, you can find this tool under the 'Tools' tab at the top of the application.

Create your signature

Click the 'Sign yourself' icon on the toolbar. Choose 'Add Signature' to type your name, draw it with your mouse, or upload a scanned image of your signature.

Apply and place the signature

Click 'Apply', then move your cursor to the desired location on the PDF page and click once to place your signature.

Save the signed document

Click 'File' and select 'Save' or 'Save As' to finalize the document with your newly added signature.

Use the Fill & Sign Tool to Add Your Own Signature

Signature Saved: Once created, Adobe Acrobat will securely save your signature for quick placement in future PDF documents.

Solution 2

Use the Request e-signatures Tool

Use this feature when you need one or more individuals to digitally sign your PDF document.

Sign PDFs Quickly with WPS Office

WPS Office provides a highly intuitive and lightweight PDF editor that allows you to easily read, edit, and add custom signatures to your PDF documents in seconds.

1. Open the PDF in WPS Office: Launch WPS Office, select the 'PDF' tab, and open the document you wish to sign.
2. Navigate to the Insert tab: On the top ribbon menu, click on the 'Insert' tab to reveal the PDF annotation and signing tools.
3. Select the Sign tool: Click on 'Sign' and choose 'Create Signature'. You can input your signature via keyboard, trackpad drawing, or image upload.
4. Place your signature: Click 'OK', hover your mouse over the desired signing area on the document, and click to drop the signature.
5. Save your PDF file: Press Ctrl+S or go to Menu > Save to ensure your signed document is stored safely on your computer.

Easily draw, type, or upload image-based signatures to any PDF.Fully compatible with Adobe Acrobat PDF formats and standard file structures.Lightweight application that loads large and complex PDF files instantly.Includes comprehensive tools for reading, annotating, and merging PDFs.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why can't I click the Fill & Sign option in Adobe Acrobat?

The Fill & Sign tool may be grayed out if the PDF author has restricted the document with a permissions password, disabling editing and signing capabilities. You must request the password or an unlocked version from the author.

What is the difference between a digital signature and an electronic signature (e-signature)?

An electronic signature (e-signature) is a digital representation of a handwritten signature. A digital signature is a specific, more secure type of e-signature that uses cryptographic certificates to verify the signer's identity and ensure the document has not been altered.

Can I edit a PDF document after it has been digitally signed?

Generally, making edits to a PDF after a certified digital signature has been applied will invalidate the signature. It is strongly recommended to complete all text edits and formatting before finalizing the document with a signature.

How do I remove a signature from a PDF?

If you are the one who placed the digital signature, you can right-click on the signature field and select 'Clear Signature'. However, if the document was locked upon signing or signed by someone else securely, the signature cannot be easily removed.

PDF Troubleshooting