How to Sign a PDF on iPhone (Built-In, Free)

You can sign a PDF on iPhone for free using the built-in Files app. Open the PDF, tap the Markup (pen) icon, then tap + → Signature to draw your signature, and place it on the document. No third-party app needed.

Step by step

1. Find the PDF in the Files app (or open an attachment in Mail, then tap the share icon → “Save to Files” first).
2. Tap the PDF to open it.
3. Tap the Markup icon (a pen tip in a circle) in the toolbar.
4. Tap the + button (bottom-right).
5. Tap Signature.
6. Sign by drawing with your finger, or tap Add or Remove Signature to create one you can reuse.
7. Tap Done, then drag the signature to the right spot. Pinch to resize.
8. Tap Done to save the signed PDF.

If you don’t see the Markup icon

Tap once on the PDF to reveal the toolbar, or tap the share icon and choose Markup.

Creating a reusable signature

Once you create a signature in Markup, iPhone saves it:

• Next time, tap + → Signature and just tap the saved one to place it.
• To manage signatures, tap Add or Remove Signature and swipe to delete old ones.

Draw vs. photo

For an authentic look, draw your signature with your finger — Markup saves it for reuse.

Signing from Mail

If the PDF arrived as an email attachment:

1. Open the attachment in Mail.
2. Tap the Markup icon directly.
3. Add your signature the same way.
4. Tap Done → reply or forward with the signed file.

Alternative apps

The built-in tool covers most needs, but these also work free:

• Adobe Acrobat Reader — Fill & Sign, with more placement options.
• Smallpdf / iLovePDF apps — sign plus other PDF tools.

For signing on other devices, see how to sign a PDF.

FAQ

Is signing a PDF on iPhone free?

Yes — the Files app’s Markup tool is built into iOS and completely free.

Can I type my signature instead of drawing it?

Signatures in Markup are created by drawing with your finger — there’s no typed option. Tap + → Signature, draw your name, then tap Done.

Where does the signed PDF save?

It overwrites the original in Files (you can duplicate the file first to keep an unsigned copy). From Mail, you can send the signed version directly.

Does the iPhone signature look like a real one?

The “draw” option captures your actual handwriting — acceptable for most non-legal documents. For signing on other devices, see how to sign a PDF.

Can I reuse a signature on iPhone?

Yes — once created, Markup saves it. Tap + → Signature and tap the saved one to place it.

Can I sign a PDF on iPhone without an app?

Yes — the Files app Markup tool is built in. No download required. Need to fill in the PDF too? See how to type on a PDF.