How to Sign a PDF Document on iPad

PDFs are a daily thing now, from work contracts, school forms, and delivery approvals, and often need a signature right away. On an iPad, you have multiple ways to handle it.

The fastest and most secure is Sign PDF, which works both online and in the dedicated iOS app. For one-off tasks, Apple’s Markup and Mail can also do the job.

Let’s go through each method step by step.

How to Sign PDF on iPad

Using Safari (or Chrome) on your iPad, you can sign PDFs instantly without installing anything. 1. Head over to Sign PDF. 2. Upload your PDF from your iPad or connect to Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive. 3. Tap Add Signature, then draw, type, or upload your saved signature. 4. Place it in the correct spot on your document. 5. Tap Finish & Sign, then download or share your signed PDF.

This is the best option if you need to sign a PDF quickly and move on.

How to Sign a PDF on iPad With the Smallpdf App for iOS

For frequent use, the Smallpdf app for iOS gives you reusable signatures and secure storage. Here’s how: 1. Download the Smallpdf app for iOS from the App Store. 2. Open the app and upload your PDF from your device or linked cloud storage. 3. Select Sign PDF from the options. 4. Create your signature once and save it for future documents. 5. Place the signature, resize if needed, and save the signed file.

With both the app and from the web, you can electronically sign a PDF, and you can also request signatures from others or keep signed files stored securely in the cloud.

How to Sign a PDF on iPad Using Markup

Another simple way to sign a PDF on iPad is with Apple’s Markup tool, which comes pre-installed and works in both Files and Photos. It’s quick for casual use, but keep in mind it only creates electronic signatures, not digital certificates.

Here’s how: 1. Open the PDF in the Files app. 2. Tap the Markup icon (pen tip inside a circle). 3. Tap the + button and select Add Signature. 4. Sign with your finger or Apple Pencil. 5. Drag and resize the signature to fit. 6. Tap Done to save.

Markup is handy for things like school slips or internal documents, but not ideal for contracts requiring verification.

How to Sign a PDF on iPad in the Mail App

When a PDF comes by email, you can sign it directly in Mail without downloading it.

Here’s how:

1. Open the email with the PDF attachment.
2. Tap the file to preview it.
3. Tap the Markup icon at the top.
4. Insert or create your signature.
5. Tap Done, then choose Reply with Attachment.

This makes signing and returning forms almost instant.

Which Method Should You Choose?

• Smallpdf (Safari): Best for occasional signatures when you don’t want to install anything.
• Smallpdf app for iOS: Best for professionals — reusable signatures, secure storage, and request features.
• Markup or Mail: Best for personal, one-time signatures without extra apps.

No matter which option you choose, it’s now easy to sign a PDF on an iPad securely and share it right away.

FAQs

1. How to fill and sign a document on iPad?

Use Markup in the Files app to insert text boxes and add a signature. For forms with multiple fields, the Smallpdf app for iOS offers a smoother workflow.

2. How do I sign a PDF document that was emailed to me?

Tap the attachment in Mail, use Markup to add your signature, then reply with the signed version.

3. Can I write on a PDF on my iPad?

Yes. Markup lets you draw or annotate with your finger or Apple Pencil. The Smallpdf app allows you to add notes and edits alongside your signature.

4. Can I use a digital signature on my iPad?

Yes. Apple’s tools only create electronic signatures. For a verified digital signature, use Smallpdf eSign in Safari or the Smallpdf app for iOS.