In today’s digital world, signing documents electronically has become secure, fast and reliable. Whether it is filing forms or registering a company online on the MCA portal, the apply digital signature online plays an important role in verifying the identity of the signer who claims to be. There are two ways available to sign a PDF: by electronic signature and by digital signature certificate.

In this article, we will discuss the two methods to explain to you the process of how to do a digital signature in a PDF in a simple process.

What is a Digital Signature?

An online digital signature is an electronic way to sign documents. It is used to verify and authenticate the identity of the signer and also ensure that the documents have not been altered after signing. 

Method 1. Using Digital Signature Certificate

This method is used for official, legal, and government document filing purposes, where you need to keep the documents confidential and maintain the security of the documents.

Step 1. Insert your USB Token into the computer

Step 2. Open the PDF in Adobe Acrobat Reader

Step 3. Go to the tools option, where you can see the certificate column 

Step 4. Click on Digitally Sign

Step 5. Select the signature area where you want the signature

Step 6. Choose the digital signature certificate

Step 7. Enter the Token PIN to unlock the signing process.

Step 8. Click on the sign and save the file.

This method unlocks access to different government portals like GST, Income Tax, MCA portal, EPFO portal,  DGFT portal and many more.

Method 2. Using Adobe Acrobat Reader

Using Adobe Acrobat Reader is the easiest and most commonly used method.

Step 1. Open your PDF in Adobe Acrobat Reader

Step 2. Click on fill and sign

Step 3. Select the sign and add a signature 

Step 4. There will be three options available: the first option is to type a name, the second is to draw a signature, and the third is to upload a signature image. You can choose where you are comfortable.

Step 5. Click on apply 

Step 6. Add the signature to the PDF format document.

Step 7. Save the PDF.

This method is used for normal signing purposes. You cannot use this method of signing while you are involved with the government portal for filing and submission forms. It doesn't provide any security to the documents.