Guide · Updated September 2026
How to Sign a Document in Google Docs
How you sign in Google Docs depends on your account. Some Google Workspace plans include native eSignature, while personal accounts can add a drawn signature or sign an exported PDF.
Step by step
- Check for eSignature. On eligible Google Workspace plans, open the document and look for Tools > eSignature. If you see it, you can add signature fields and request signatures from there.
- Otherwise, place your cursor. Click where the signature should go.
- Insert a drawing. Choose Insert > Drawing > + New. Select the Scribble tool from the line menu and draw your signature.
- Save and close. Click Save and close. The signature is inserted as an image you can resize.
- Download a PDF if needed. Choose File > Download > PDF Document to send a fixed copy, or to sign the PDF in another tool.
Google's native eSignature
According to Google, eSignature is available on Workspace Individual, Business Standard and Plus, Enterprise Starter, Standard and Plus, Enterprise Essentials and Essentials Plus, and Education Plus. Administrators can turn it off, so if you cannot find the option, check with your admin.
Other options
Download the document as a PDF and sign it with eSignSimple's free Sign PDF tool (/tools/sign-pdf). It runs in your browser without uploading the file, and lets you draw or type a signature and add the date.
If you need someone else to sign and want a record of the process, eSignSimple's sending with an audit trail is in early access.
Frequently asked questions
Does Google Docs have a built-in e-signature?
Yes, on eligible Google Workspace plans (such as Business Standard and Plus, and Workspace Individual). Free personal accounts generally need to use the Drawing tool or another service.
Is a drawn signature in Google Docs legally binding?
It can be, since many laws accept electronic signatures that show intent to sign. For contracts, an audit trail provides better evidence of who signed and when.
Can I sign a PDF stored in Google Drive?
Download it and sign it with Preview, Acrobat Reader or a browser tool, then upload the signed copy back to Drive.
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