How to Sign a PDF in Google Drive?

Google Drive recently introduced a built-in eSignature option, but it’s limited to specific Workspace plans and doesn’t cover all use cases. If you’re on a personal plan or need advanced features, you’ll still need an external service.

With Smallpdf’s Sign PDF, you can sign any PDF from Drive and save it back instantly, regardless of your account type.

How to Sign a PDF in Google Drive

Google Drive previews PDFs, and in some plans, it offers a basic signing option.

For broader access and flexibility, Smallpdf integrates directly with Drive so you can pull in your file, sign it, and save it back without extra steps.

Follow the steps below to see how:

Step 1: Open Smallpdf Sign PDF

Head over to Sign PDF.

Step 2: Import From Google Drive

Click Choose File and select Google Drive. Connect your Drive account with Smallpdf, and choose the PDF you need to sign.

Step 3: Add Your Signature

Click Add Signature. You can draw one with your mouse or trackpad, type your name, or upload an image of your handwritten signature.

Step 4: Place the Signature

Drag the signature to the correct spot in the document. Resize it if necessary.

Step 5: Save Back to Drive

Click Finish. The file can be downloaded or saved directly into your Google Drive.

How to Sign a PDF in Google Drive on iPhone

Many users access Google Drive through their iPhone. You can sign directly using the Smallpdf app for iOS, which integrates with Drive.

Step 1: Install the App

Download the Smallpdf app for iOS from the App Store and log in.

Step 2: Import From Google Drive

Open the app, tap Sign PDF, and choose Import from Google Drive. Select the file you want to sign.

Step 3: Create or Insert Your Signature

Draw with your finger, use a saved signature, or upload an image of your handwritten signature.

Step 4: Place and Save

Position the signature in the correct location, resize it, then save. The signed document can be sent back to Google Drive or shared by email.

This workflow keeps everything mobile, without needing to transfer files to a computer.

Tips for Using Smallpdf eSign With Google Drive

Adding signatures in Google Drive becomes much more efficient when you know how to use the right features. Smallpdf Sign PDF is designed to handle both personal and professional signing needs.

1. Save Reusable Signatures

When you create a signature in Smallpdf, you don’t need to redraw it each time. It’s stored securely in your account so you can reuse it across multiple documents. This is especially useful if you frequently sign contracts or agreements saved in Google Drive.

2. Use Cloud Connections for Flexibility

With Smallpdf, you can also connect Dropbox and OneDrive to import and export files. Many people use more than one storage platform, and linking them all ensures your workflow stays smooth without needing to switch apps.

3. Choose Digital Signatures for Security

There’s a difference between a basic electronic signature and a certified digital signature.

For personal tasks, a simple image works. But when compliance is required, Smallpdf supports digital signatures that meet international standards like ESIGN (US) and eIDAS (EU).

The eSignature market itself is projected to reach $39.11 billion by 2029, reflecting just how important secure signing has become for businesses worldwide.

4. Keep Documents Organized in Drive

One of the advantages of using Smallpdf with Google Drive is that you can save the signed PDF directly back into the same folder. It keeps your versions organized and makes it easier to share or collaborate with others immediately.

Troubleshooting Common Issues With eSignatures in Google Drive

Even though signing PDFs in Drive is simple, you may run into issues from time to time. Here’s how to solve the most common ones.

1. Authorization Problems

If you can’t connect your Google Drive to Smallpdf, make sure you’re logged into the correct Google account. You may also need to grant permission again for Smallpdf to access your files.

2. Signature Not Displaying Correctly

Some PDFs use unusual formatting that can interfere with how signatures appear. If this happens, download the file, re-upload it, and sign it again in Smallpdf. In most cases, this refresh resolves display issues.

3. Secured PDFs

If the PDF is password-protected or locked, you’ll need to enter the password before signing. If you have access, you can use Unlock PDF to remove restrictions and then apply your signature.

4. iPhone Integration Issues

If a file from Google Drive won’t load into the Smallpdf iOS app, update the app and reconnect your Google account. Re-linking usually fixes the connection.

The Best Way to Sign a PDF in Google Drive

Google Drive is where 2 billion people manage their important files every day, and signing PDFs is a big part of that.

While Drive now includes a basic built-in eSignature option for some Workspace users, many people still need a more flexible solution.

On desktop, iPhone, or through add-ons, you can import a PDF from Drive, add your signature, and save it right back into your folders.

FAQs

1. Can you sign a document with Google Drive?

Google Drive itself doesn’t have a built-in signature tool. To sign a document, connect it with Smallpdf and then use Sign PDF to sign your document.

2. Can I write on a PDF in Google Drive?

Not directly. Google Drive previews PDFs but doesn’t allow edits. With Smallpdf Edit PDF, you can add text, annotations, and signatures to files from Drive.

3. How do I electronically sign a PDF document?

Upload your file to Smallpdf Sign PDF, create your signature, place it in the document, and save the signed version.

4. How do I add a handwritten signature to Google Drive?

Save your handwritten signature as an image file (JPG or PNG). Open the PDF from Google Drive with Edit PDF, choose Add Image, place your signature where you want it, then save the updated file back to Drive.