Does DocuSign count as a wet signature?
Asked by: Ms. Hailie Roob | Last update: February 15, 2026Score: 4.8/5 (3 votes)
No, a DocuSign signature is an electronic signature (e-signature), not a traditional "wet signature," but it's designed to be legally equivalent and often more secure, offering robust audit trails (like IP addresses, timestamps) and tamper-proofing, though some courts might still require a physical wet signature in specific contexts if not relying on e-signature laws. A wet signature is a handwritten mark with ink on paper, while DocuSign provides a secure digital record that proves intent and identity, making it a strong alternative to ink signatures for most legal and business purposes.
What qualifies as a wet signature?
A wet signature means you've physically “signed” a document with a pen, seal, or other identifying mark on a physical piece of paper.
Does DocuSign count as a signature?
Yes — DocuSign is legally binding in most jurisdictions around the world, provided it is used in accordance with local electronic signature laws. It meets all the requirements of a legally valid signature under the ESIGN Act and UETA in the United States, as well as under the eIDAS regulation in the European Union.
What is an example of a wet signature?
To "wet-sign" a document, you use a pen on an actual piece of paper. The term "wet" refers to ink on paper needing time to dry. Throughout history, people have also used various methods such as stamps, personal seals, or thumbprints to create the equivalent of a wet signature.
What type of signature is DocuSign?
Digital signatures, like handwritten signatures, are unique to each signer. Digital signature solution providers, such as Docusign, follow a specific protocol called Public Key Infrastructure, or PKI. PKI requires the provider to use a mathematical algorithm to generate two long numbers, called keys.
Docusign eSignature: How to Sign a Document with a Wet Signature
Is DocuSign as good as a wet signature?
Yes, electronic signatures are more secure than traditional (wet) signatures. Learn about physical security, platform security and security certifications.
What are the four types of signatures?
The four main types of signatures broadly categorize physical and digital methods: Wet Signatures (traditional ink on paper), Electronic Signatures (eSignatures) like typed names or clicks, Digital Signatures (cryptographically secured eSignatures), and Other Markings/Symbols, including initials, 'X' marks, or stamps used for authentication. These types vary in security, legal standing, and usage, from formal legal documents to quick online agreements.
What is a non-wet signature?
Wet signature: A person physically signs a piece of paper with pen and ink, usually by writing their name or initials. Electronic signature: A person acknowledges the contents of an electronic document, either by typing their name, digitally writing their signature on a touchscreen device, or using eSigning software.
Is there another term for wet signature?
But you might also hear wet signatures referred to by many other names, including: Handwritten signatures. Manual signatures.
What are the three types of digital signatures?
Digital Signatures are of three types - Simple Digital Signature, Basic Digital Signature, and Advanced and Qualified Digital Signature. Advanced and Qualified Digital Signatures are the most widely used type of digital signature which protects the personal information from unauthorized handling.
Can DocuSign hold up in court?
Yes, e-signatures via Docusign can be considered a legally binding electronic signature if certain requirements are met.
What category does DocuSign fall under?
Docusign expenses generally fall under the software category. Key ways to classify these costs include: Document management and e-signature software: This reflects Docusign's primary role in handling digital documents and signatures.
Is DocuSign a stamped signature?
Docusign stamps help users apply a stamp as their signature, official approval, or organizational acknowledgment on documents.
How to tell if a document is digitally signed?
Open the file that contains the digital signature you want to view. Click File > Info > View Signatures. In the list, on a signature name, click the down-arrow, and then click Signature Details.
What are the four requirements for an electronic signature to be valid?
For an electronic signature to be valid, especially under U.S. law (ESIGN Act/UETA), it must meet four core requirements: Intent to sign, showing clear purpose; Consent to do business electronically, meaning all parties agree to digital transactions; Association of the signature with the record, linking it to the document; and Record retention, ensuring the signed document is storable and reproducible.
How does a wet signature hold up in court?
How does a wet signature hold up in court? A wet signature is generally accepted in court as long as it can be verified as authentic. Courts often rely on supporting evidence such as witness testimony, timestamps, or physical presence during signing to confirm the signature's validity.
What is the difference between DocuSign and Wet signature?
A 'wet signature' refers to a traditional handwritten signature, while DocuSign is an electronic signature platform. The main difference between the two lies in their security and compliance features.
How can you tell if a signature is wet?
A wet signature is an original handwritten mark made with ink on a physical document. Picture the classic scene: blue or black ink flowing from a pen as someone signs their name on the dotted line. The term "wet" comes from the time needed for the ink to dry on the page.
Can documents be signed electronically?
As with a handwritten signature, a signer must show clear intent to sign an agreement electronically. For example, signers can show intention by using a mouse to draw their signature, typing their name, or clicking an “Accept” button that is clearly labeled.
What are the three types of signatures?
The three main types of signatures, especially in electronic contexts, are Simple Electronic Signature (SES) for basic consent (like typing your name), Advanced Electronic Signature (AES) for stronger signer-document linkage, and Qualified Electronic Signature (QES), which uses a digital certificate for high security and legal equivalence to a wet signature. Alternatively, traditional handwritten signatures can be categorized as formal (clear), informal (cursive), or a careless scribble, depending on the document's importance.
What is an unacceptable signature?
o Illegible signature over a typed or printed. name. o Illegible signature where the letterhead, addressograph or other information on the page indicates the identity of the signatory. Example: An illegible signature appears on a prescription.
Can I just type my name for an electronic signature?
Using a typed signature in your business is legal and accepted. But for an esignature that is legally binding and valid, you must adhere to the following rules: Prove that the signer wanted to sign by providing options like “Cancel.” Prove that the signer wanted to carry out their business electronically.
Is DocuSign a qualified electronic signature?
DocuSign is a Trusted Service Provider of Advanced Electronic Signatures (AES) and Qualified Electronic Signatures (QES)
What is the rarest signature?
Shakespeare's 400-year-old signature - 4.5 million euros
This makes it one of the rarest signatures in the world. The documents on which the author immortalised himself more than 400 years ago are treated with corresponding value. Experts estimate that a copy could fetch around 4.5 million euros if sold.
Does DocuSign use digital signatures?
Docusign works with Trust Service providers from around the world to offer digital certificates and digital signatures through the Docusign platform.