How to sign a PDF on a Mac

Whether you’re signing a contract, filling out a form, or approving a document, figuring out how to add your signature to a PDF on a Mac shouldn’t be a hassle.

Fortunately, you don’t need to print, scan, or install complex software to do it.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best ways to sign a PDF on a Mac, starting with a free and simple online option.

The easiest way to sign a PDF on a Mac: Use Lumin

If you want a free, simple, and secure way to sign PDFs on a Mac, Lumin has you covered.

Lumin is a cloud-based document signing tool that lets you sign PDFs in just a few clicks. It works directly from your browser so no downloads are required.

How to add a signature to a PDF on a Mac

1. Open the free online PDF editor and upload your document.
2. In the left-hand panel, click “Fill & Sign”, then select “Signature” from the top toolbar.
3. Click “Add Signature” and choose how you'd like to sign: draw it freehand, upload an image, or type it.
4. Once you’re happy with your signature, click “Save”, then place it anywhere in your PDF.
5. When you're done, use the right-hand panel to download, print, or share your signed document.

Other options

Sign a PDF using Preview

Apple’s Preview app is a handy tool for basic PDF signing and comes pre-installed on all macOS devices. It lets you create a signature using your trackpad or camera and apply it to documents.

While it's great for occasional or personal use, Preview doesn’t support advanced features like signature requests, tracking, or digital certificate verification. It can be a useful option if you just need to quickly sign and return a simple document without installing anything new.

Use Adobe Acrobat

If you already use Adobe software, Acrobat’s tool provides a reliable way to add signatures to PDFs. It supports typed, drawn, and uploaded signatures and works well with other Adobe tools.

However, full access to features like advanced editing, document tracking, or secure digital signatures requires a paid subscription. For casual users, this may be more than necessary — especially when free or browser-based options are available.

Frequently asked questions

How do I sign a PDF on a Mac without downloading any software?

You can sign PDFs directly in your browser using online tools like Lumin. Just upload your document, create or insert your signature, and download the signed version, no installation required.

Is Preview on Mac good enough for signing documents?

It depends on your needs. If you just need an image to represent your signature on a PDF, then Preview is fine.

However, if you need more advanced signing features such as being able to capture signatures or others, track the progress of those signatures, set reminders, and more, you will need a more powerful tool like Lumin Sign.

Can I create a handwritten-style signature on my Mac?

Absolutely. Tools like Lumin and let you draw your signature using your trackpad or upload an image of your handwritten signature. You can then place it anywhere in your PDF.

Can I request signatures from others using my Mac?

Yep, but you will need the right tool for the job.

Some tools, like Lumin Sign and other eSignature platforms, allow you to send documents to others for signing. You can often set the signing order, assign fields, and receive notifications when the document is signed

Need something more advanced? Try Lumin Sign

If your eSigning needs are more complex and you need others to add legally binding signatures to your document, try Lumin Sign.

Lumin Sign is a powerful eSignature tool designed to streamline the way you manage agreements and contracts. From capturing legally binding signatures in seconds to tracking document progress from sent to signed, Lumin Sign makes the signing process simple and efficient.

Lumin Sign offers:

• Legally binding signatures that comply with international e-signature regulations
• Cross-device compatibility (Mac, iPhone, iPad, or any browser)
• Signature requests and tracking with signing order options
• Reusable signatures to speed up future workflows.

Liked this guide? See more in our blog on how to edit a PDF on a Mac.