How to sign a PDF online

A PDF signed in just a few minutes

Getting a PDF signed online takes less than 5 minutes with an electronic signature platform. No need for Adobe Pro, no need to print, no need to scan.

The 5 steps

1. Choose a platform

Select an eIDAS compliant platform (Certyneo, Yousign, DocuSign, etc.). A free plan is enough to get started.

2. Drop the PDF

Drag and drop your file into the interface. Most platforms accept:

• PDF (native format, recommended)
• Word (automatically converted)
• Images (avoid if possible)

3. Add signatories

Enter the name and email of each signatory. For an advanced signature (AES), also add the telephone number (OTP SMS).

4. Place the signature fields

Drag a “Signature” field to the desired location on the page. For several signatories, one field per person with different colors.

5. Send

Click “Send”. Each signatory receives an email with a secure link. You follow the status in real time.

What the signer receives

• an email with a unique link
• opening the PDF in the browser
• a click on "Sign"
• possibly an OTP code by SMS (for AES)
• immediate confirmation

Total time for the signer : 1-3 minutes.

Best practices

• Reread the PDF before sending (no correction possible once signed)
• Plan for an expiration date (15-30 days)
• Activate automatic reminders
• Test first with a non-critical document

Frequent errors

• Upload a scan of poor quality (unreadable on mobile)
• Forget a signature field
• Enter the wrong email
• Send without testing

How Certyneo helps you

Certyneo offers the sending of a PDF to sign in less than 3 minutes: drag-drop of the file, addition of signatories, placement of fields, sending. Free plan to start, no account to create for the signatory.

Discover the Certyneo electronic signature solution

FAQ

Do you need Adobe Acrobat Pro?

No. An online platform is enough.

Does the signer need an account?

No, just from his email.

Can you sign from a phone?

Yes, all modern platforms are mobile-first.

How long does it take to sign?

1-3 minutes for the signer.

Is it free?

Free plans exist (3-10 signatures/month).

Conclusion

Signing a PDF online has become trivial. In less than 5 minutes, you send, the signatory signs, you receive the signed document with legal proof.

Try Certyneo to send, sign and track your documents online simply, quickly and securely.