An electronic signature as a method of signing a document in a virtual environment. Hillsborough County staff treat an electronic signature with the same authority as a handwritten or 'wet' signature. A digital signature differs from an electronic signature in that it carries the weight of a certificate authority that has verified the signer's identity, similar to how a notary would verify a signer's identity prior to certifying a signature. This allows a Digital Signature to act as a verified signature in a virtual environment. Documents prepared by design professionals, such as architects or engineers, are required to be signed and sealed using a digital signature. For additional information, view our Hillsborough County Guide to Electronic signatures.