Sign a Consent Form Online

Got a consent form as a PDF, for treatment, a photo release, a background check or your child's activity? Sign it in your browser and send it back. The form is processed on your device and never uploaded to our servers.

No file uploadsSignature, initials and dateWorks on phone and desktopFrom €2.08/month

Loading editor...

Consent is about agreeing, not about the signature

A consent form records that you agreed to something: a medical procedure, the use of your photo, a background check or the processing of your data. In many situations the agreement itself is what counts, and the signed form is the organisation's evidence of it. That is why most providers are happy to receive an electronically signed PDF. What matters more is that you understand what you are agreeing to before you sign.

Common consent forms and what to look for

  • Medical and treatment consent: should name the procedure and explain its risks, benefits and alternatives. Ask questions before signing if any of these are missing.
  • HIPAA authorization (US): lets a provider share your health information with someone else, such as an insurer, employer or family member. It must say what information is shared, with whom, for what purpose and until when, and that you can revoke it in writing.
  • Photo and video release: check where the images may be used (website, social media, print, advertising), for how long, and whether you or your child will be named.
  • Background check authorization (US): under the Fair Credit Reporting Act an employer must give you a stand-alone disclosure and get your written authorization before ordering a consumer report.
  • GDPR data processing consent: should state each purpose separately and tell you how to withdraw consent.
  • Parental consent for minors: for trips, sports, treatment at school or photos. A parent or legal guardian signs.

Consent form or liability waiver?

The two are often stapled together but do different things. A consent form authorizes something to happen to you or with your information. A liability waiver or release asks you to give up claims if something goes wrong. If a form asks you to release an organisation from liability, read that part as a waiver, and see our guide to signing waivers online.

When to use the provider's own system instead

SigPDF signs the PDF you already have. It does not verify your identity or keep an audit trail. That is fine when a clinic, school or employer emails you a form and asks for it back signed. Use the organisation's own portal or e-consent tool when:

  • you are taking part in an FDA-regulated clinical trial, where electronic consent must meet 21 CFR Part 11;
  • the provider sent a portal or signing link rather than a PDF;
  • the form says it must be signed in person, in front of a witness, or on paper.

How to sign a consent form with SigPDF

  1. Open the consent form PDF in the editor above. Fill in any form fields, such as name and date of birth.
  2. Draw your signature with your finger or mouse, or type your name and choose a handwriting style.
  3. Place the signature on the patient, participant or parent line and add the date with Add Date.
  4. If the form has tick boxes for separate permissions, use Add Text to mark each one you agree to.
  5. Download the signed PDF and send it back the way the organisation asked. Keep a copy for yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sign a medical consent form electronically?
Usually, if your provider accepts it. Many clinics and hospitals send consent forms as PDFs or through their own patient portal. The provider decides which format it accepts, so if they emailed you a PDF and asked for it back signed, signing it electronically is normally fine. If they send a portal link, sign there.
Can a HIPAA authorization be signed electronically?
Yes. A HIPAA authorization must contain certain elements, including the individual's signature and the date. US Department of Health and Human Services guidance says the authorization can be obtained electronically as long as the electronic signature is valid under applicable law.
Does GDPR consent need a signature?
No. Under the GDPR, consent can be given by a statement or a clear affirmative action, such as ticking a box. The organisation must be able to show that you consented, and a signed form is one way to record that. You can withdraw GDPR consent at any time, and withdrawing must be as easy as giving it.
Can I e-sign a clinical trial consent form with SigPDF?
No, use the study's own system. Electronic informed consent in FDA-regulated clinical trials has to meet 21 CFR Part 11, which requires controls such as audit trails and signer identification. SigPDF does not provide those. If the research team sends you a PDF to print or return, follow their instructions.
Who signs a consent form for a child?
A parent or legal guardian signs on behalf of a minor. Some forms ask for both parents, or for the child's own agreement (assent) as well. Fill in every signature line the form asks for.
Is my information uploaded when I sign?
No. SigPDF opens and signs the PDF inside your browser and creates the signed file on your device. Medical details, dates of birth and contact information in the form are not sent to SigPDF's servers.

Related Resources

Sign Your Consent Form Now →