How to Insert a Signature in Google Docs: Free (2026)

Google Docs doesn't have a dedicated "sign" button, but you can still add your signature a few ways: by drawing it, inserting an image of it, or (most reliably) signing the PDF version. Here's how to put a signature in a Google Doc for free.

Method 1: Draw Your Signature

Google Docs has a built-in drawing tool.

1. Place your cursor where the signature should go.
2. Go to Insert > Drawing > + New.
3. Click the Line tool and choose Scribble.
4. Draw your signature with your mouse, trackpad, or touchscreen.
5. Click Save and Close, the signature appears in your document.

You can drag to resize it and set Wrap text so it sits neatly on a signature line.

Method 2: Insert an Image of Your Signature

For a cleaner, real-looking signature:

1. Sign white paper and photograph or scan it (your phone's scanner works well).
2. Save it as a PNG with a transparent background.
3. In Google Docs, go to Insert > Image > Upload from computer and select it.
4. Resize and position it, using Wrap text > In front of text for precise placement.

Method 3: Sign the PDF Instead (Most Reliable)

Signatures in Google Docs can shift when the document is downloaded, printed, or opened elsewhere, and editable docs can be changed after signing. For a signature that stays put and can't be accidentally edited, export to PDF and sign that.

1. In Google Docs, go to File > Download > PDF Document (.pdf).
2. Open PDF Zone's Sign PDF tool.
3. Upload the PDF: it stays on your device, never uploaded.
4. Draw, type, or upload your signature and drag it onto the page.
5. Download the signed PDF.

This is the standard way to produce a signed, shareable document, and it keeps the signature fixed for every recipient.

Lock the Signed Document

After signing the PDF, prevent further changes:

• Flatten it so the signature can't be moved.
• Encrypt it with a password before sharing.

Signing in Word or Another Format?

The same principle applies everywhere: for a reliable signed document, finish in your editor, export to PDF, and sign the PDF. See our guides on creating an electronic signature and signing a document in Word.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I insert a signature in Google Docs?

Use Insert > Drawing > + New, choose Scribble, and draw your signature; or insert an image of it with Insert > Image. For a signature that won't shift, download the doc as a PDF and sign it with the Sign PDF tool.

How do I draw my signature in Google Docs?

Go to Insert > Drawing > + New, click the Line tool, select Scribble, draw your signature, and click Save and Close. Resize and position it in the document.

How do I add an image of my signature to a Google Doc?

Sign paper, scan or photograph it, save it as a transparent PNG, then use Insert > Image > Upload from computer and place it with Wrap text > In front of text.

Why does my Google Docs signature move around?

Google Docs reflows content based on the reader's setup, so an inserted signature can shift, and editable docs can be changed after signing. Signing the exported PDF with the Sign PDF tool keeps it fixed.

Is a signature in Google Docs legally valid?

An electronic signature is legally valid for most documents. For a more tamper-resistant record, sign the PDF version and flatten it so the signature can't be altered.

How do I sign a Google Doc without printing it?

Draw or insert your signature in the doc, or download it as a PDF and sign it online with the free Sign PDF tool, no printer or scanner needed.

Can I sign a Google Doc on my phone?

Yes. Use the Drawing tool in the Google Docs app, or download the doc as a PDF and open the Sign PDF tool in your mobile browser to sign it.

How do I stop my signature from being edited after signing?

Sign the PDF version and flatten it so the signature becomes part of the page, then optionally encrypt it before sharing.

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Related: Sign PDF · Create an electronic signature · Insert a PDF into Google Docs