I prepare the weekly supply order that the vendor expects by Wednesday; procurement must keep a timestamped copy for a…
Open the PDF document you want to apply a timestamp LTV to in Adobe Acrobat.
Ensure the PDF is already digitally signed; if not, apply a digital signature first.
NoteA timestamp LTV can only be applied to a document that has a digital signature.
Right-click the existing signature in the document and select Validate Signature.
In the Signature Validation Status dialog, click Signature Properties.
In the Signature Properties window, click Show Signer's Certificate.
Close the certificate viewer and return to the Signature Properties window.
Click Validate Signature if prompted, then close the dialog.
From the main menu, go to File > Save As and save the document to embed the validation information.
Best practiceSome users recommend saving a backup before embedding LTV, as the process cannot be undone.
Right-click the signature again and select Add Verification Information (or similar, depending on Acrobat version).
NoteThis step embeds the timestamp and revocation data needed for LTV.
Save the document again to finalize the LTV information.
After you add LTV information, anyone can verify the signature’s validity even if the certificate is later revoked.
This runs in the Acrobat app - there is no separate API for this task.
| Feature | Purpose | When Applied |
|---|---|---|
| Timestamp | Proves the document/signature existed at a specific time. | During the signing process. |
| LTV (Long-Term Valid) | Ensures the signature remains valid even after the signer's certificate expires. | After the signature is made. |
It is important because a trusted TSA ensures the timestamp is reliable and cannot be easily faked or altered. If the timestamp is not from a trusted source, its proof of time might not be accepted as valid, especially in legal or official situations. A trusted TSA provides independent proof.
If you don't add LTV information, your digital signature might appear invalid once the certificate you used to sign expires. This means the signature's trustworthiness could be lost over time, making it harder to prove its authenticity later.
A signing certificate is a digital ID that confirms your identity when you sign documents electronically. It expires because it has a set period of validity, like a driver's license. This expiration helps maintain security and ensures that the identity information linked to the certificate is current and verified regularly.