How to Insert a Signature in Google Docs: A Complete Guide

Insert a Typed Signature in Google Docs

Use Sign.Plus’s online typed signature generator. Remember, typed signatures alone might not be legally binding unless used within a compliant platform like Sign.Plus. Here is how to make a typed signature

• Type your name and make a personalized signature online.
• Choose a signature from the designs available
  
• Download your online signature
• To sign documents online, Upload your signature to Sign.Plus.
• Upload the documents you wish to sign online
• Add your signature to the document
• Click Sign and dowload the document

Draw Your Signature with Google Drawing

Adding your handwritten signature is simple:

• Open Google Docs and select the document you want to sign or create a new one.
• Click on Insert at the top, select Drawing, then choose + New.
• In the Drawing window, select the Scribble tool (the squiggly line icon). Use your mouse or stylus to draw your signature.
• Click Save and Close when done. Your signature will appear in your document.
• Click on your signature to resize, move, or wrap text around it.

Tip: Use a stylus or touchscreen for smoother signatures  and adjust the line thickness to make your signature clearer.

Upload an Image of Your Signature

• Sign your name clearly on paper, then scan or take a high-quality photo.
• In Google Docs, select Insert then Image and choose Upload from Computer.
• Click your image to crop it or adjust transparency using online tools before uploading.
• Position your signature neatly using text wrapping options.

Tip: Save your signature as a PNG file for a transparent background and use at least 300 dpi resolution for clear prints.

Using the eSignature Feature in Google Docs

Google Docs includes a built-in eSignature feature, allowing you to request and collect legally binding electronic signatures directly within your documents. Here’s how to use it:

• Open your Google Doc that needs to be signed.
• Go to the menu and select Insert > eSignature fields.
  
• A sidebar will appear where you can add signature fields, initials, and other required information. You can assign fields to different signers if multiple signatures are needed.
• Manage signers by entering their names and email addresses in the sidebar. You can add multiple signers and customize the fields for each signer
• Once all fields are placed, click Request eSignature
• Enter the email addresses of the people who need to sign.
• Optionally, add a message to the recipients explaining the request
• Google Docs will generate a static PDF version of your document (to prevent edits after requesting signatures) and send signature requests via email to the signers.
  
  Signers do not need a Google account, they simply click the link in the email, review the PDF, and fill in the assigned signature fields. Signers must enter their name, initials, and signature, then click Mark Complete to finalize their signature
• Once all parties have signed, everyone receives a copy of the signed PDF. The final document includes an audit trail showing who signed and when, ensuring legal compliance in the US and EU

Note: The feature is not available to users on free personal Google accounts. eSignature feature is only available for eligible plans: Business Standard and Business Plus, Enterprise Starter, Enterprise Standard, Enterprise Plus, Enterprise Essentials, Enterprise Essentials Plus and Education Plus.

‍Alternative: You can use an eSignature Add-On like Sign.Plus

Sign Using an eSignature Add-On

• Open Google Docs, click Extensions > Add-ons > Get add-ons, then search and install your chosen e-signature add-on.
• Follow the prompts to link your Google account.
  
• Use the add-on interface to insert signature fields into your document.
• Monitor the signing status and securely store completed documents.

Benefits:

• Provides a legally valid audit trail.
• Ideal for sending bulk documents for signatures.
  

Inserting a Signature in Google Docs Using an eSignature Software

Electronic signatures make signing documents fast and secure. Using Sign.Plus simplifies the process:

• Sign up for a free account on Sign.Plus.

• Go to the "Sign" section, upload the Google Doc you wish to sign electronically, and click on Sign Myself or Request Signature

• Select the fields you would like to add to your document.

• Sign online your Google Doc.

Insert a Signature Line in Google Docs

Using the Drawing Tool:

• Insert > Drawing > + New
• Select the line tool and draw a straight line.
  

Using a Table:

• Insert a 1x1 table.
• Remove all borders except the bottom line.
  

Using the Horizontal Line Tool:

• Place the cursor and select Insert > Horizontal line.