How to Sign a PDF on an iPhone or iPad Using Mobile Esignatures

Apple devices make it possible to add a signature to a PDF on iPhone or iPad, whether you’re signing a simple form or completing a business document. However, the built-in tools aren’t always obvious, and some methods only work for basic signatures.

In this guide, we’ll walk through how to sign a PDF on iPhone and iPad step by step. If you want a broader overview of all available methods, you can also read our complete guide on how to sign a PDF.

Can You Sign a PDF on iPhone or iPad?

Yes, you can sign a PDF on an iPhone or iPad using several different methods. Apple devices allow you to add electronic signatures directly to PDF documents using built-in tools or third-party apps.

The most common ways to sign a PDF on iPhone or iPad include:

1. Using Apple Markup to draw a signature directly in a PDF.
2. Using a PDF app like Adobe Acrobat Reader to add a digital signature.
3. Using an eSignature app that lets you upload documents and sign them electronically (EASIEST METHOD)

Each method allows you to add a signature to a PDF, place it on the document, and export the signed file for sharing or sending.

Below, we’ll walk through the easiest ways to sign PDFs on both iPhone and iPad.

How to Sign a PDF on iPhone With Fill

If you need a fast way to sign a PDF on your iPhone, using a dedicated eSignature app is often the easiest option. Apps like Fill allow you to upload a document, create a signature, and sign documents directly from your phone.

With Fill, you can add an electronic signature to a PDF on iPhone in just a few steps.

1. Download the Fill App from the Apple App Store.

2. Open the app, then sign up or log in to an existing account. You can do this through Google, Apple, or your email address.

3. From the dashboard, tap on the + button and select a way to add a document.

There are several ways to do this:

• Create a new file
• Use a template
• Scan a physical copy
• Import from the cloud

4. The document editor contains esignature tools at the bottom section. Tap the Sign button to add a new signature, which you can accomplish by drawing, typing, or importing an image.

5. Your signature should now be visible on the toolbar. Drag it anywhere inside the document you’re signing.

6. Once done, tap the Send button to email a copy or download the file as a PDF.

That’s how simple it can be to sign PDFs with an iPhone. The next time you need to sign anything, your electronic signature will be available on Fill.

How to Sign a PDF on iPad Using Fill

Signing documents on an iPad works almost exactly the same as signing on an iPhone, but the larger screen can make it easier to review and place signatures accurately.

Follow these steps to sign a PDF on iPad using Fill:

1. Download the Fill app for iPad from the App Store.
2. Open the app and log in or create a new account. You can use your Google account, Apple ID, or email address.

3. You can import a new document from iCloud or your device’s local storage to Fill. You could also scan a copy, create a new file, or use a template.

4. Once you’ve opened the document, tap on the Sign button to create your electronic signature. You can use Fill’s built-in tools to draw, type, or import an existing esignature.

5. Select and drag your new esignature from the toolbar to your preferred location.

6. Complete the process by exporting the document to PDF or emailing it to a recipient. You could also use a shareable link to send signed files directly to your contacts.

Because your signature is saved inside the app, you can sign documents on iPad or iPhone anytime without recreating your signature.

Are There Other Ways to Sign PDFs on an iPhone or iPad?

Apart from using Fill, there are other methods you can use to sign documents with your mobile device. You can use Apple’s built-in signing solution or an app from Adobe. Follow the short guides below to learn more.

Sign a PDF on iPhone or iPad with Adobe Acrobat Reader

Adobe Acrobat Reader is a popular PDF reader available for iOS. It allows you to electronically sign PDFs on iPhone or iPad, though some features are limited compared with dedicated eSignature tools.

1. Download the Adobe Acrobat Reader app for iOS on your device.

2. Sign in using your Adobe ID or register for a new account.

3. Look for the left or bottom navigation pane and select Files. You’ll see the option to upload or import a PDF file from cloud storage or directly from your device.

4. Next, tap the Edit icon and select Fill and Sign. Tap the pen nib button from the menu and select Create Signature or Create Initials. Adobe Acrobat Reader lets you do this in three ways:

• Draw your signature in the Sign Here box.
• Upload an image of an existing signature
• Take a photo of your handwritten signature.

5. Once your signature is ready, tap any document section and wait for the pop-up menu. Then, select the pen nib icon to add the signature.

6. Position and resize the signature however you want. Repeat the process as needed.
Save your changes and export the PDF.

While Adobe Acrobat Reader provides a fast way to sign PDFs, some of its restrictions make it less ideal as an esignature solution. You’ll need to attach the file to an email if you wish to request for other signatures or share a signed document. It also may not have as robust a feature set as other apps.

Sign a PDF on iPhone with Apple Markup

Apple has a proprietary method for signing and annotating documents. With Markup, you can add text, drawings, and images to PDF files. The following steps will help you get started:

1. Open a PDF file preview on the Mail app. You may also open a document through the Files app.
2. Once you’ve opened the file or preview, you should see the Markup icon that looks like a pen tip. Tap on it to enter markup mode and start annotating.
3. Create a new esignature by tapping the plus icon on the bottom and selecting the Signature button. You should then see an option to create an electronic signature.
4. Next, draw your signature on the given space using your finger or an Apple Pencil if you have one for your iPad. You may repeat the process until you’re satisfied with the signature.
5. Tap on Done and select your esignature. You may enlarge, shrink, and drag your signature anywhere inside the document.

It’s possible to create multiple esignatures on your Apple device. They will appear as an option inside the Markup interface the next time you need to use them.

The Easiest Way to Sign a PDF on iPhone or iPad

If you regularly sign contracts, forms, or agreements from your phone, using a dedicated eSignature tool can simplify the process.

Fill helps you sign PDFs on iPhone and iPad quickly, while also providing features designed for business workflows, including:

• Secure document sharing
• Real-time signing notifications
• Document scanning from your phone
• Cloud storage integrations
• 256-bit encryption and signer verification

You can create your account in minutes and start signing documents immediately. Get started for free and experience a better way to sign PDFs on an iPhone or iPad.

If you want to explore more methods and tools, you can also read our complete guide on how to sign a PDF, which covers additional ways to electronically sign documents across different devices.