Whether you’re reviewing documents on the go or finalizing a contract away from your computer, being able to sign a PDF directly on your Android device is essential. Luckily, there are several easy and secure ways to sign PDFs using your phone or tablet — no printer or pen required.
In this article, we’ll walk through the most practical methods to sign a PDF on Android, starting with the simplest browser-based approach and moving on to app-based options.
1. Sign a PDF in Your Browser Using an Online Tool
One of the easiest ways to sign a PDF on Android is to use a browser-based signing tool. These tools work directly in Chrome, Firefox, or any other mobile browser and don’t require downloading an app.
A good example is a web-based platform like SignOnlinePDF.com. It allows you to upload a PDF, insert a signature (typed, drawn, or uploaded), and download the signed version — all from your phone.
How it works:
- Open your preferred browser on Android.
- Visit an online PDF signing service.
- Upload the PDF file from your device or cloud storage.
- Use the on-screen tools to place your signature.
- Save and download the signed document.
This method is ideal for quick tasks and occasional signing without cluttering your device with extra apps.
2. Use Adobe Acrobat Reader for Android
Adobe Acrobat Reader is one of the most trusted apps for working with PDFs — and it includes a “Fill & Sign” feature specifically for adding signatures.
Steps:
- Download and install Adobe Acrobat Reader from Google Play.
- Open the app and load the PDF file you want to sign.
- Tap the pen icon or select “Fill & Sign”.
- Add your signature by typing, drawing, or inserting an image.
- Drag the signature to the correct position.
- Save or share the signed file.
Adobe requires an account for some advanced features, but basic signing is available for free.
3. Use Google Drive + Lumin PDF
If your PDF is stored in Google Drive, you can take advantage of Lumin PDF — a cloud-based editor that integrates with Drive.
How to use it:
- Open Google Drive on your Android device.
- Tap on the PDF you want to sign.
- Choose “Open with” and select Lumin PDF (if installed).
- Use Lumin’s editing tools to add your signature.
- Save the updated PDF back to Drive or download it.
Lumin PDF offers real-time syncing and is convenient for users already working within the Google ecosystem.
4. Sign with Microsoft Office (If You Use Word)
If you have Microsoft Word installed and your PDF can be converted:
- Open the PDF in the Word app (it will convert it to editable text).
- Insert your signature as an image or draw it using the drawing tool.
- Save the document back as a PDF.
While not a dedicated PDF tool, it works in a pinch if you prefer Office apps.
5. Use a Dedicated PDF App (Xodo, PDF Reader, etc.)
There are many free PDF reader apps on Google Play that offer signing capabilities, including:
- Xodo PDF Reader & Editor
- Foxit PDF Editor
- PDF Reader – Sign, Scan, Edit
These apps are ideal for frequent users who want advanced tools like annotation, form filling, and file management alongside signing.
Summary: Best Ways to Sign PDFs on Android
| Method | Requires App | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Online tool in browser | ❌ No | Quick signing without installation |
| Adobe Acrobat Reader | ✅ Yes | Trusted, feature-rich signing |
| Google Drive + Lumin PDF | ✅ Yes | Cloud users and collaboration |
| Microsoft Word app | ✅ Yes | Office integration |
| Third-party PDF apps | ✅ Yes | Advanced PDF editing |
Signing a PDF file on Android is easier than ever. Whether you choose a browser-based service or a dedicated app, you can securely sign documents wherever you are. For quick, hassle-free signing without app downloads, an online tool through your mobile browser is often the fastest option. But if you need more features or work with PDFs daily, apps like Adobe or Xodo are excellent choices.
Now that you know the options, you’re ready to sign PDF files from your Android device anytime, anywhere — no printer required.