Trying to erase a signature from your PDF? Here’s how to do it securely, step-by-step — with or without editing restrictions.
Digital signatures help keep files secure, but what if you need to update, replace, or clear one?
In this guide, we’ll show you how to remove signature from PDF documents using the safest, easiest methods, including what to do when the file is locked.
Can You Really Remove a Signature from a PDF?
Yes, but it depends on how the signature was added.
There are two main types:
- Drawn or typed signatures added with Smallpdf’s eSign — these are editable if the file is not locked.
- Certified digital signatures are cryptographic and often locked down to prevent tampering.
If you added the signature and still have access, removal is simple. If someone else signed and locked the document, you’ll need to unlock it first.
4 Ways to Remove Signatures from a PDF
The method depends on how it was added — whether it’s a simple drawn signature or a certified digital seal. Here are the best ways to remove it securely and efficiently.
Way 1: Use Smallpdf’s Edit PDF Tool (for Non-Digital Signatures)
If the signature was added manually — like a typed name, an image, or a drawn scribble — you can usually delete it like any other object on the page.
Here’s how: 1. Go to Edit PDF 2. Upload your PDF 3. Click on the signature — if it's editable, it will highlight 4. Press Delete or click the trash icon
Delete Your Signature from PDF
This works best for non-certified signatures added when users manually fill and sign PDF forms. You won’t need to unlock the file or convert it — simply click, remove, and save.
Way 2: Remove a Digital Signature by Unlocking the PDF First
Digital signatures often lock the file or restrict editing. You’ll need to remove those restrictions first.
Steps: 1. Go to Unlock PDF 2. Upload the signed file 3. If prompted, enter the password (or get access from the signer) 4. Once unlocked, open the file in Edit PDF and try deleting the signature
This removes editing locks, but certified digital signatures (with visible blue bars or certificate metadata) can’t be removed unless you’re the original signer and revoke the certificate. In those cases, editing or clearing the signature might invalidate the document.
Way 3: Revert to an Unsigned Version
Did you save a copy before signing? Great — that might be the fastest fix.
If not, and the file lives in Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive, you may be able to access version history and download a clean copy without the signature.
This approach is especially helpful for collaborative teams working in the cloud. Just locate the previous file version and redownload it.
Way 4: Flatten & Rebuild the PDF (Advanced)
When all else fails, try flattening the PDF into a static file and rebuilding it from scratch. This removes layered elements like form fields or signatures that won’t budge.
Here’s how to do it: 1. Go to the Flatten PDF and upload your signed file 2. This creates a flattened copy where all layers are merged, including the signature 3. Upload the flattened file to Edit PDF or Sign PDF 4. Rebuild your layout, add fields, or apply a new signature as needed
Apply a New Signature to your PDF
Be aware: Flattening removes interactivity, such as form fields, and disables any certificate tracking tied to digital signatures.
What If the PDF Is Signed and Locked?
A digitally signed PDF often comes with certified restrictions — editing, copying, or even printing might be blocked. To handle this:
- Try Unlock PDF — it can remove some restrictions
- If you’re the signer, open the original file and remove the signature from your PDF editor
- If someone else signed and locked it, you’ll likely need to request a new version from them
Certified digital signatures are meant to prevent tampering, so any edit could break the cryptographic seal.
What’s the Best Way to Remove a Signature from Your PDF?
The easiest method is using Smallpdf’s Edit PDF, especially for simple signatures added with a mouse, keyboard, or image.
If your file is locked or signed with a certified digital ID, first try Unlock PDF or use version history if available.
And if you’re switching to a new signer or updating a form, you can always replace the old signature by using our Sign PDF.
When in doubt, delete, unlock, or flatten. Our tools make it simple to clear signature from PDF files, no matter how they were signed.
FAQs
1. Can you remove a signature from a PDF?
Yes, if the signature is not certified and the file isn’t locked, you can remove it using Smallpdf’s Edit PDF.
2. How do I remove a security signature from a PDF?
Use Unlock PDF to remove restrictions, then go to Edit PDF to delete the signature if permitted.
3. How do I remove someone else's digital signature from a PDF?
You typically can’t without their permission. If the file is locked, request an unsigned copy or access via the original signer.
4. Is it legal to delete a signature from a PDF document?
It depends. If the document is legally binding or shared with others, always get consent before removing or altering the signature.
5. What tools work best for removing a signature from a secured PDF?
Try Smallpdf’s Unlock PDF, followed by Edit PDF. These tools offer safe removal if the file allows it.
6. Does flattening a PDF make the signature unremovable?
Yes, once flattened, a signature becomes part of the image and cannot be edited separately. Use this method only when necessary.
