Guides
How to sign a PDF on iPhone
The fastest way to sign a PDF on iPhone is to open the file, add a signature, place it on the page, and export the signed copy. PDF Toolkit keeps that workflow simple and private.
Last updated May 24, 2026
Direct answer
Open the PDF, tap the signature or markup tool, create or choose a saved signature, place it on the page, then export or share the signed PDF. Use PDF Toolkit when you also need compression, merge, split, page reorder, or cleaner export controls.
Step-by-step
- Save the PDF to Files, Mail, Messages, or another app you can share from.
- Open the PDF in PDF Toolkit.
- Tap the signature tool.
- Create a new signature with your finger or Apple Pencil, or choose a saved signature.
- Drag the signature into position and resize it if needed.
- Review the page before export.
- Export the signed copy to Files, Mail, Messages, or the iOS share sheet.
When Markup is enough
Apple’s built-in Markup can work for a quick signature on a simple file. Use a dedicated PDF app when you need to sign more than once, keep signatures ready, combine pages, compress a large file, fill text fields, or export a clean final copy.
| Need | Built-in Markup | PDF Toolkit |
|---|---|---|
| Quick one-off signature | Good fit | Good fit |
| Saved signature workflow | Limited | Built for it |
| Merge or split PDFs | Not the focus | Included in Pro |
| Compress before sending | Not the focus | Included |
| iPad document workflow | Basic | Apple Pencil-friendly |
Privacy note
Signing a document should not require advertising profiles or mystery uploads. PDF Toolkit is designed so PDFs stay on your device unless you choose to export, share, or use a clearly labeled feature that requires upload.
Download PDF Toolkit
Sign, compress, merge, and export PDFs on iPhone.
Free to start. Pro from $5.99/month with a 3-day trial. Lifetime available for $29.99.
FAQ
Can I sign a PDF on iPhone for free? +
Yes. Built-in Markup can handle simple signatures, and PDF Toolkit is free to start for basic PDF workflows.
Can I use Apple Pencil to sign? +
Yes. On iPad, Apple Pencil is a natural way to create a clean signature in PDF Toolkit.
Does signing change the original PDF? +
Export a signed copy when you want to keep the original untouched.
Can I sign and then compress the PDF? +
Yes. PDF Toolkit is designed for signing plus common follow-up tasks like compression, export, merge, and split.