The Old Way vs. The Right Way
Old Way (Print & Scan)
- 1. Receive PDF by email
- 2. Print the document
- 3. Sign with a pen
- 4. Scan the signed pages
- 5. Email the scan back
Time: 10–20 minutes. Requires: printer, scanner
New Way (Online eSign)
- 1. Receive PDF by email
- 2. Upload to PDF.it eSign
- 3. Draw or type your signature
- 4. Download signed PDF
- 5. Email it back
Time: 30–60 seconds. Requires: just a browser
How to Sign a PDF Without Printing (Step by Step)
Open PDF.it eSign
Go to pdf.it.com/esign in any browser — Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Edge. Works on Mac, Windows, iPhone, and Android.
Upload your PDF
Drag the file in or click to browse. You can upload directly from your email downloads, Google Drive, Dropbox, or anywhere on your device.
Draw your signature
Choose 'Draw' and use your mouse (desktop) or finger (mobile) to sign. Take your time — you can clear and redo it as many times as you like. On a tablet, stylus input gives a very natural result.
Click where to place it
Navigate to the signature line and click to drop your signature there. Resize and reposition as needed.
Download and send
Download the signed PDF and email it back. The signature is embedded in the file — it will look correct in any PDF reader.
Signing on Different Devices
On a Desktop or Laptop
Use the Draw option and sign with your mouse. For a more natural look, type your name instead — the signature fonts look professional and many recipients prefer them.
On an iPhone or Android
Open pdf.it.com/esign in your mobile browser. Tap Draw and sign with your finger directly on the touchscreen. On iOS, you can also share the PDF from Mail directly to the browser.
On an iPad with Apple Pencil
Use Safari and the Draw option — Apple Pencil input is supported. The result is virtually indistinguishable from a pen-on-paper signature.