Information on creating signatures

Creating a digital signature in a PDF (Adobe Acrobat)

A digital signature is an encrypted electronic signature that ensures the authenticity and integrity of a document. It is linked to a certificate to confirm the identity of the signer.
This guide explains step-by-step how to create a digital signature in a PDF document. The guide is based on the example of Adobe Acrobat.

Notes

• Make sure your certificate is issued by a trusted certification authority.
• If any problems occur, check that the signature card is correctly recognised.
• Further information is available on the Adobe website or from your signature card provider.

Requirements

• A PDF document
• Suitable software for creating the signature (e.g. Adobe Acrobat)
• A valid digital certificate
  • Alternatively: card reader and signature card

Step-by-step guide

1. Importing a certificate into Adobe Acrobat

1. Open Adobe Acrobat.
2. Go to Edit > Preferences > Signatures.
3. Under Identities & Trusted Certificates, click on..
4. Select Digital IDs > Add Digital ID.
5. Here you can choose whether you have a certificate file stored on the device or use a card reader.
6. Import your certificate.

2. Signing a PDF Document

1. Open the PDF with Adobe Acrobat.
2. Click on Tools > Use a Certificate and select Digitally sign.
3. Use the mouse to draw a signature field on the document.
4. Select your certificate or signature card.
5. Confirm the signature and save the file. The PDF is now digitally signed.