Gone are the days of printing a document just to sign it, then scanning it back into your computer. Electronic signatures (e-signatures) let you sign PDFs directly on your screen — and they're legally binding in most countries.
Are Electronic Signatures Legal?
Yes. Electronic signatures are recognized by law in:
- United States: ESIGN Act (2000) and UETA (1999)
- European Union: eIDAS Regulation (2014)
- United Kingdom: Electronic Communications Act (2000)
- Canada: PIPEDA and provincial electronic commerce acts
- Australia: Electronic Transactions Act (1999)
For most business contracts, agreements, and forms, an electronic signature carries the same legal weight as a handwritten one.
Three Ways to Sign a PDF
With the CreatorTools Sign PDF tool, you have three options:
1. Draw Your Signature Use your mouse, trackpad, or touchscreen to draw your signature freehand. This feels the most natural and looks the most like your real signature. Works great on tablets and phones.
2. Type Your Signature Type your name and choose from multiple script font styles. Quick and clean — perfect when you need a professional-looking signature in a hurry.
3. Upload a Signature Image If you already have a saved signature image (PNG with transparency), upload it directly. This is ideal if you've previously created a signature you want to reuse.
How to Sign a PDF (Step by Step)
Step 1: Upload the PDF document that needs your signature. Step 2: Create your signature using one of the three methods above. Step 3: Drag and position your signature on the document. You can resize it and place it anywhere. Step 4: Add additional information like the date, your name, or your title if needed. Step 5: Download the signed PDF.
When You Need Multiple Signatures
For contracts requiring signatures from multiple parties, each person can sign using the same tool. Just send the document to the next signer after adding your signature. For a more formal workflow, use the CreatorTools signing workflow which supports multi-signer sequencing.
Tips for Professional eSignatures
- Use a consistent signature across all documents
- Add the date next to your signature
- For formal documents, consider adding your printed name and title below the signature
- Keep your signature size proportional to the signature line
- Always review the entire document before signing
eSignature vs. Digital Signature
These terms are often confused:
Electronic Signature (e-signature): A broad term for any electronic indication of intent to sign. Includes drawn, typed, and uploaded signatures.
Digital Signature: A specific type of e-signature that uses cryptographic certificates to verify the signer's identity and ensure the document hasn't been tampered with. More secure but also more complex.
For most business purposes, a standard electronic signature is sufficient and legally binding.
Sign your documents in seconds with CreatorTools eSignature — free, legally binding, no signup.