Choose a signing method: Adobe Acrobat (desktop/web), Adobe Acrobat Sign, DocuSign, HelloSign/Dropbox Sign, Microsoft Word/SharePoint, or a certificate-based PDF signing tool
Get a digital certificate (if required) from a trusted provider (e.g., Adobe Approved Trust List, DocuSign, or your organization’s PKI)
Open the PDF in your chosen tool
Select the option to sign (e.g., “Fill & Sign” or “Digitally Sign”)
Place the signature field where you want it in the PDF
Upload your certificate or select an existing stored certificate
Confirm the signing details (name, reason, location, date, signature appearance)
Complete any authentication step (password, SMS/email, or certificate PIN)
Save the signed PDF (download or overwrite, depending on the tool)
Verify the signature validity in the PDF viewer (look for “Signed and all signatures are valid” or signature status)
If needed, request countersignatures (send for co-signing) and repeat verification after all signatures are applied