Signing a PDF: All Your Questions Answered 

Electronic signature (eSignature) solutions have the power to transform your document-based processes. Using the right eSign tool means no longer having to wait for emails with scanned signatures or for important files to make their way through snail mail. But starting off with eSigning documents like PDFs can be confusing. Whether you’re signing your first PDF today or looking to optimize how your business handles electronic signatures, we answer the most common questions about eSigning below. 

 How do I sign a PDF electronically?

Digitally signing a PDF is easy with the right software. In Nitro PDF Pro, you create an electronic signature in just a few steps:  

1. Select the “Sign” option under the “Protect” tab 
2. Choose your signature from the gallery 
3. Click on the page where you’d like to place your signature 
4. Save your PDF 

For an even more user-friendly experience, use QuickSign to draw, type, or upload a saved signature and apply it directly to your document. Simply open your PDF, select the QuickSign tool, add your signature, and click save.

What are the different types of eSignatures?

Electronic signatures fall into one of three categories, which offer varying levels of security and compliance. Here’s a quick breakdown of each: 

• Simple Electronic Signatures (SES): This is the most basic method, and it works for most eSigning needs. It proves acceptance or approval by the signer, which can be a manually drawn or scanned image of a signature or a simple click of a button. 

• Advanced Electronic Signatures (AES): These provide a higher level of signer ID verification and tamper-sealing by uniquely linking a signature to the signer. 

• Qualified Electronic Signatures (QES): These offer the highest level of security by linking the signer’s identity to a personal certificate issued by a Qualified Trust Service Provider (QTSP). 

Not sure which method you need to use? Our blog on the 3 Types of eSignatures provides more guidance.

Are eSignatures legally binding?

Yes, most countries accept eSignatures as legally binding as long as they comply with regulations like the ESIGN Act, eIDAS, ZertES, and others. These laws recognize eSignatures as enforceable when they meet requirements like identity verification and intent to sign. 

Nitro’s eSigning software makes it easy to comply with global and industry-specific standards through features like audit trails and tamper-proof technology — assuring users that eSignatures are secure and legally valid.

When should I use a wet signature vs. an eSignature?

A wet signature is a traditional, physical signature created with ink on paper, while an electronic signature is a legally binding digital equivalent. 

Using a wet or electronic signature will depend on the legal requirements of your jurisdiction or industry. For example, notarized documents, wills, and real estate transactions in many countries require wet signatures, while most business agreements accept eSignatures. You’ll need to familiarize yourself with the regulations in your area to determine which method is best suited to your needs.

What if I need someone else to sign a PDF?

With Nitro Sign, you can easily send documents for eSignature. Here’s how it works: 

1. Upload your PDF to Nitro Sign 
2. Add recipient email addresses and set signing fields 
3. Send the document and track progress in real-time 

Recipients can sign from any device without creating a Nitro account, so the process is quick and convenient for everyone involved. 

How can I ensure my signed PDFs are secure?

Security is a top concern when dealing with digital signatures, so make sure to choose an eSignature software solution that conducts vigilant security practices and builds in encryption. Nitro secures signed PDFs during transmission and storage using advanced encryption tools, and cryptographic seals protect signed PDFs from tampering for full transparency and accountability. 

Nitro can also integrate multiple identification and authorization methods into your existing apps and tools to help you create a smooth, secure verification process. With these measures, you can trust that your signed PDFs stay private and protected.

What should you look for in an eSignature vendor?

The right eSign software provider will deliver security, compliance, and ease of use. Some important factors to keep in mind when choosing a vendor include: 

• Change management: Your chosen vendor should offer change management support for your transition, including training your teams, responding to issues, and communicating effectively. 
• Free trials: Choose a solution that offers a free trial or pilot program so you can try before you buy. 
• Security and compliance: Your eSign vendor should offer strong cybersecurity protocols like encryption and audit trails along with policies to help you meet regulatory compliance requirements. 
• System integration: Find an eSignature solution that integrates with your existing technology stack and workflows for a disruption-free migration.

If you’re considering switching eSign providers, check out our guide to ensure a smooth, seamless transition. 

Start eSigning smarter with Nitro 

Ready to get started with a trusted PDF and eSign software solution? Nitro offers features that make the eSignature process simple, secure, and efficient, including QuickSign for easy document signing, advanced security protocols, and workflows for sending and tracking signatures.

Try it for free today, or talk to one of our experts to learn more and schedule a product demo.