How to Sign a PDF for Free in 2025 — Step-by-Step Guide

How to Sign a PDF for Free in 2025

Signing a PDF shouldn't cost you a dime. Whether you're a freelancer countersigning a contract or a small business owner approving an invoice, there are plenty of free options available. This guide walks you through every major method — from built-in OS tools to browser-based solutions.

Method 1: Use a Browser-Based Tool Like SignQuick

The fastest way to sign a PDF is with a free browser-based e-signature platform. SignQuick lets you upload, sign, and download your document in under 60 seconds — no account required for basic signing.

Steps:

• Go to [SignQuick's signing page](/signer)
• Upload your PDF or drag and drop it
• Click where you want to place your signature
• Draw, type, or upload your signature
• Download the signed PDF

Browser-based tools are ideal because they work on any device — Windows, Mac, Linux, or mobile.

Method 2: Preview on Mac

If you're on macOS, Preview has built-in signature support.

Steps:

• Open the PDF in Preview
• Click the Markup toolbar button (pencil icon)
• Click the Signature button
• Create a signature using your trackpad, camera, or iPhone
• Place and resize the signature on the document
• Save the file

Limitation: Preview signatures are basic image overlays — they don't include audit trails or tamper-evident seals.

Method 3: Adobe Acrobat Reader (Free)

Adobe's free Reader app supports basic e-signatures.

Steps:

• Open the PDF in Acrobat Reader
• Click Fill & Sign in the right panel
• Click Sign yourself → Add Signature
• Type, draw, or upload an image of your signature
• Place it on the document and save

Limitation: Free tier limits you to 2 signature requests per month. For more, Adobe charges $12.99/month.

Method 4: Mobile Signing

Both iOS and Android have built-in markup tools:

• iOS: Open the PDF in Files, tap the markup icon, add your signature
• Android: Use Google Drive's built-in annotation, or install a free app like Adobe Fill & Sign

Which Method Is Best?

For most people, a browser-based tool like SignQuick offers the best balance of convenience, features, and cost. You get audit trails, multi-signer support, and no software to install.

Tips for Signing PDFs Securely

• Verify the document before signing — read every page
• Use a consistent signature across documents for legal consistency
• Keep a copy of every signed document for your records
• Check for an audit trail to ensure your signature is legally defensible
• Never sign a blank or partially loaded document

Conclusion

Signing a PDF for free is easier than ever. For a quick one-off signature, your OS's built-in tools work fine. For anything involving multiple signers, audit trails, or professional workflows, a dedicated platform like SignQuick gives you enterprise features at no cost for up to 5 documents per month.

Ready to sign your first document? Try SignQuick for free — no credit card required.