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Open the PDF you want to certify in Adobe Acrobat Pro.
Go to the Tools pane and select Certificates.
In the Certificates toolbar, click Digitally Sign.
Draw a rectangle in the document where you want the signature to appear.
In the dialog that appears, select your digital ID (certificate) from the list.
Choose Certify with Visible Signature (or similar option) to ensure the signature is a certification signature, not just an approval signature.
CautionCertification signatures can restrict further changes to the document; choose the correct restrictions for your compliance needs.
Set the permitted actions after certifying (for example, 'No changes allowed' or 'Form fill-in and signing').
Click Sign and, if prompted, enter your digital ID password.
Save the certified PDF to finalize the certification signature.
Best practiceFor maximum legal defensibility, use a digital ID issued by a trusted Certificate Authority rather than a self-signed certificate.
You can verify the certification status and permitted actions by clicking the signature panel in the left navigation pane after signing.
This runs in the Acrobat app - there is no separate API for this task.
| Feature | Electronic Signature | Digital Signature |
|---|---|---|
| Proof Level | Limited proof of intent | Strong, PKI-backed proof (non-repudiation) |
| Security | Basic | Advanced cryptographic security |
| Legal Status | Often legally valid (e.g., US ESIGN) | Highest legal standing (e.g., EU QES) |
The audit trail is a special report that records every step of the signing process. It includes details like the signer's IP address, device information, timestamps, and cryptographic hashes of the document. This report acts as strong evidence in court because it shows who signed, when they signed, and that the document was not changed after signing. You should always keep this report, often attached to the signed PDF, to prove the signature's authenticity if needed.
In the EU, the eIDAS regulation defines different levels of electronic signatures: Simple, Advanced (AdES), and Qualified (QES). Choosing the right level is important because each has different legal weight and security. A Qualified Electronic Signature (QES) has the highest legal standing, equal to a handwritten signature. Using the wrong level might mean your signature is not strong enough for important legal documents, which could cause problems later.
A Qualified Electronic Signature (QES) is the highest level of electronic signature under EU law (eIDAS). It requires a qualified certificate and a secure signature creation device, making it legally equivalent to a handwritten signature. You should use a QES for very high-value or high-risk transactions, such as signing property deeds, important legal contracts, or documents that require the strongest possible legal proof and non-repudiation, especially when dealing with EU entities.