Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)

A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is a secure and encrypted electronic key issued by a certifying authority to verify the identity of the certificate holder. Digital signatures are created using public key encryption technology.

A DSC contains details such as the user’s name, PIN code, country, email address, certificate issue date, and the name of the certifying authority.

• Advanced Security: Prevents unauthorized access, document alteration, signature forgery, and data tampering.
• Authentication: Validates the identity of the certificate holder while conducting online business.
• Data Integrity: Digitally signed documents are secure and cannot be altered after signing.
• Reduced Cost & Time: Enables fast electronic signing and submission without physical presence.

• Class 1 DSC: Issued to individuals for verifying name and email address against a trusted database.
• Class 2 DSC: Issued to directors or authorised signatories for ROC filings. (Discontinued from 1 January 2021 and replaced by Class 3 DSC.)
• Class 3 DSC: Mandatory for participating in e-auctions and online tenders across India.

Indian Citizen (Individual)

• PAN Card
• Identity Proof: Aadhaar Card / Passport / Driving License
• Address Proof: Voter ID / Aadhaar Card / Driving License
• Passport Size Photograph
• Attestation from an authorised official

Indian Citizen (Organisation)

• Organisation PAN Card
• Identity Proof of authorised signatory
• Partnership Deed / Incorporation Documents
• Board Resolution / List of Directors
• GST Certificate

Foreign Individuals & Organisations

• Attested copy of Passport
• Attested copy of Visa (if applicable)
• Residence Permit (if residing in India)
• Authenticated Government-issued Address Proof

Document requirements may vary depending on the nature of the entity such as proprietorship, LLP, company, or trust.

1. Visit the website of an authorised Certifying Authority.
2. Select the applicant type (Individual or Organisation).
3. Download and fill the DSC application form.
4. Get identity and address proofs attested by an authorised officer.
5. Make payment via online mode, demand draft, or cheque.
6. Submit documents for verification and receive your DSC.