Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
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Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is the electronic equivalent of a handwritten signature, used to sign documents and conduct transactions online. Issued by licensed certifying authorities, a DSC ensures data integrity and verifies that a document has not been altered after being signed.
In India, DSCs are widely used for filing income tax returns, registering companies, submitting tenders, and accessing various secure digital services. They not only provide secure online authentication but also streamline digital paperwork by eliminating the need for physical signatures.
Typically stored in a secure USB token, DSCs are legally recognized under the Information Technology Act, 2000.
Purpose of DSC in Digital Transactions
- Authentication: A DSC verifies the identity of the sender of the digital document, ensuring that the individual or entity behind the document is authentic.
- Integrity: It guarantees that the document has not been altered during transfer. Any modification of the signed document would make the digital signature invalid.
- Non-repudiation: A DSC provides proof of the origin of the digital document. Once a document is signed, the signer cannot deny having signed it, preventing any future disputes.
- Confidentiality: When used in encryption, DSC ensures that only the intended recipient can decrypt and read the message or document.
- Legal Validity: In many countries, a DSCs hold the same legal validity as a handwritten signature for electronic transactions, ensuring the document is legally binding and enforceable.
Key Uses of Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is essential for secure, authenticated, and legally valid digital transactions. Key use cases include:
- Company Incorporation (MCA): Required for signing documents during company registration and filing with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.
- GST: Used to sign and file GST returns and related documents on the GST portal.
- E-Tendering: Essential for submitting bids in government and private sector e-tendering processes.
- EPFO: Used for submitting Employee Provident Fund (EPF) and Employee State Insurance (ESI) related documents online.
- Trademark: Required for filing and signing trademark applications and intellectual property documents.
- Digital Document Signing (PDFs, Contracts, Agreements): DSCs allow individuals and organizations to securely sign and authenticate a variety of documents, including PDFs, contracts, and agreements.
- Banking and Financial Transactions: Used for secure online banking, authorizing payments, and signing loan agreements.
- Import/Export: Required for signing and submitting customs documents and obtaining the Import Export Code (IEC).
- Income Tax Returns (ITR): Used to electronically sign and file income tax returns.
- E-Government Services: Essential for digital contracts, e-filing, and government communications.
- Legal Documents: Used for signing legal contracts, agreements, and other formal documents.
Types of Digital Signature Certificates (DSC) in India
Digital Signature Certificates (DSCs) are categorized based on the level of security they provide and the type of verification required. The following table outlines the main types of DSCs, along with their purposes, verification levels, validity, and estimated cost:
Type | Purpose / Use Case | User Type | Verification Level | Validity | Approx. Cost (INR) |
Class 1 | Securing email communication, internal user authentication (rarely used today) | Individuals | Basic (Email & Name verification) | 1–2 years | ₹500–₹800 |
Class 2 | Filing ITR, GST returns, MCA filings (being phased out by CCA guidelines) | Individuals / Organizations | Moderate (Govt. database match) | 1–2 years (limited) | ₹800–₹1,200 |
Class 3 | E-tendering, e-auctions, trademark/patent filings, startup registrations, legal contracts | Individuals / Authorized Signatories | High (Physical or Video KYC required) | 1–3 years | ₹1,500–₹3,000+ |
Detailed Overview
Aspect | Class 1 DSC | Class 2 DSC | Class 3 DSC |
Use Case | High-security needs such as e-tendering, patent/trademark filings, online auctions, Startup India registration, and legal contracts. | Filing income tax returns, GST returns, MCA forms, and other medium-security applications. | High-security needs such as e-tendering, patent/trademark filings, online auctions, Startup India registration, and legal contracts. |
Security Level | Basic; verifies the email address and username. | Identity verified through trusted databases (e.g., PAN, Aadhaar). | Involves physical or video verification of the applicant. |
Suitability | Personal and non-critical communication tasks. | Suitable for individual professionals, businesses, and regulatory compliance. | Mandatory for organizations and individuals involved in high-trust transactions. |
Note | Not suitable for legal, financial, or high-security online transactions. | As per recent guidelines by the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA), Class 2 DSCs are being phased out and replaced by Class 3 for higher security standards. | - |
Expert Tips
- Mandatory Use: Class 3 DSC is now required for most secure government portals including eProcurement, Startup India, and IP India.
- Secure Storage: DSCs are usually stored in USB tokens (costs ₹500–₹800 extra) to ensure safe and tamper-proof usage.
- Organizational DSCs: These include both signing and encryption capabilities. Cost ranges from ₹3,000 to ₹5,000, depending on the authority and validity period.
- Top Certifying Authorities: Trusted providers include eMudhra, Capricorn, Sify, nCode, etc.
Parties Involved in Digital Signature Certificates
The main parties involved in a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) include:
- Applicant- This is the individual or organization that applies for the DSC. They request the certificate to digitally sign documents and ensure their authenticity.
- Certifying Authority (CA)- A trusted organization responsible for issuing the DSC. The CA verifies the identity of the applicant before issuing the certificate, ensuring the legitimacy of the digital signature.
- Subscriber – The individual or organization who owns and uses the DSC. They use it to digitally sign documents, emails, and other online transactions.
Who Needs a DSC?
A Digital Signature Certificate is needed by individuals and organizations for legal, official, and compliance reasons. Here are the main groups that typically require a DSC:
- Business Owners & Entrepreneurs – For signing contracts, GST returns, and e-tenders.
- Chartered Accountants & Tax Professionals – For e-filing taxes, audit reports, and compliance documents.
- Government Contractors & Vendors – Required for e-tendering and signing official contracts.
- Legal Professionals – Used for filing cases, signing legal documents, and court submissions.
- Individual Taxpayers – For securely filing income tax and GST returns (especially in India).
- Banks & Financial Institutions – To sign loan agreements, KYC forms, and digital transactions.
- Corporates & Large Organizations – For signing internal documents, reports, and contracts.
- Educational Institutions – To issue digitally signed certificates and academic records.
- Freelancers & Consultants – For signing contracts, agreements and invoices digitally.
- E-Commerce & Digital Platforms – For secure transactions and regulatory compliance.
Benefits of Digital Signature Certificate
- Time Efficiency: DSCs enable paperless transactions, saving time by eliminating the need for printing, signing, and scanning documents. This significantly speeds up processes such as tax filing, contract execution, and government applications
- Cost Savings: By reducing paper, printing, and mailing costs, DSCs help save money. Digital documents also minimize risks of loss or damage, lowering expenses related to handling physical documents.
- Convenience: DSCs allow documents to be signed and submitted online from anywhere, at any time, providing greater convenience, especially in remote or time-sensitive situations.
- Transparency and Trust: DSCs enhance transparency in digital transactions by clearly verifying the document's origin and integrity, fostering trust among parties in legal, business, or government dealings.
- Compliance with Regulatory Requirements: DSCs are often required for compliance with regulations such as e-filing, digital contracts, and other electronic business practices (e.g., tax filings, company registrations).
- Protection Against Fraud: DSCs help protect against fraud by confirming the signer's identity and ensuring data integrity, reducing risks like identity theft, unauthorized transactions, and document forgery.
Process to Apply for and Use a DSC
Process to Apply DSC
Signing Process
How to Obtain a Digital Signature Certificate?
Step 1: Select a Certifying Authority (CA)
- There are around 20-25 authorized Certifying Authority (e.g., eMudhra, Capricorn, Sify, NSDL, etc.) licensed to issue Digital Certificates in India.
- You can apply through their website or through a trusted DSC provider/reseller
Step 2: Choose the Type of DSC
- Decide whether you need an Individual or Organizational DSC
- Choose the class (Class 3 for all official uses) and validity (1, 2, or 3 years)
Step 3: Select the Certificate Type
- Choose the purpose of the DSC:
- Signature – For signing documents (e.g., ITR, GST, MCA, tenders)
- Encryption – For securing confidential data (used in bidding documents)
- Signature & Encryption (Combo) – For both purposes
Step 4: Fill Out the Application Form
- Provide basic details like
- Name
- Email ID
- Mobile number
- PAN or Aadhaar number
- Organization details (if applicable)
Step 5: Proof of Identity and Address
- Aadhaar eKYC: If available, you can opt for Aadhaar eKYC. This eliminates the need to upload documents.
- Direct Submission: You can visit the CA with original documents and self-attested copies.
- eKYC Video: Some CAs may require a video showing your original documents for verification
Step 5: Complete Identity Verification
- Via Aadhaar-based OTP eKYC or
- Video verification (as per CA’s guidelines)
Step 6: Make the Payment
- Pay based on certificate type, validity, and whether a USB token is required
STEP 7: Verification
- After receiving the application, the Certifying Authority will review the provided information and may either approve the certificate or reject the application.
Step 7: Download Your DSC
- After approval, you'll get your DSC in a secure USB token or via email.
- If using a USB token, plug it in and follow the CA’s instructions to download the DSC.
- If received by email, use the link or steps provided to download and install it.
How to Use DSC to Sign Documents?
Step 1: Insert the USB Token: f your DSC is stored on a USB token, install the required drivers/software provided to access the DSC
Step 2: Install the DSC Software: If using a USB token (where your DSC is stored), you need to install the middleware (e.g., ePass, SafeScrypt) provided by your Certifying Authority (CA).
Step 3: Launch/ Login the software: You will be prompted to enter your PIN or password to access the certificate stored on your USB token.
Step 4: Select Your Certificate:
- Once logged in, the DSC software will show a list of available certificates on your USB token.
- Select the certificate you want to use for signing documents or for authentication.
Step 5: Export the Certificate: Navigate to the Export option in the software.
Step 6: Open the Document: Open the document you wish to sign ((e.g., Adobe Acrobat)
Step 7: Choose the “Sign” Option: In the document software (e.g., Adobe Acrobat), click on the "Digitally Sign" option, usually found in the tools or options menu.
Step 8: Enter PIN (If Required): If your DSC is stored on a USB token, you may be prompted to enter your PIN (set during the initial DSC setup).
Step 9: Sign the Document:
- Once the certificate is selected and PIN entered (if applicable), click on "Sign" to apply the digital signature.
- Position the signature on the document as needed (some software allows you to adjust where the signature appears).
Step 10: Save the Signed Document: After signing, save the document. The digital signature will be embedded, ensuring the document’s authenticity and integrity.
Cost to Apply for a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) in India
The cost of applying for a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) can vary depending on the Certifying Authority (CA), type of DSC, validity period, and whether it's for an individual or an organization. Fees typically range from ₹500 to ₹25,000.
As per Section 35 (2) of IT Act, 2000 states that the application must include a fee, which should not exceed ₹25,000, as set by the government. Different fees may apply for different applicants.
Certified Authorities for Digital Signatures
As per Section 35 of the Information Technology Act, 2000, Digital Signature Certificates (DSC) are issued by Certified Authorities (CA’s) to ensure secure online transactions. Below is a list of recognized issuers in India.
Safescrypt | JPSL |
Indian Air Force | SignX |
IDRBT | ProDigiSign |
CSC | Indian Navy |
(n)Code Solutions | xtra Trust |
RISL (RajComp) | Vsign (Verasys) |
e-Mudhra | Panta Sign |
Indian Army | Protean (NSDL e-Gov) |
CDAC | CDSL Ventures |
IDSign | Capricorn |
Care 4 Sign | IGCAR |
Speed Sign | - |
Documents Required to Apply for DSC (for Indian Citizen)
For Individuals
For Organization
- Aadhaar or PAN
- Mobile number (Aadhar linked)
- Passport-sized photo
- Identity Proof – Anyone from Aadhaar (eKYC Service), Passport, PAN Card, Driving License, or Government-issued photo ID with Name & Address
- Address proof – Anyone from Aadhaar (eKYC Service), Telephone/Electricity/Water/Gas Bill, Bank Statement (signed), Service Tax/VAT Registration, or Government-issued photo ID
- Authorization Letter
- Identity and Address proof of Authorized Signatory
- Organizational proof – Below documents vary based on the type of organization.
- Copy of PAN Card
- Recent Bank Statement or Bank Certificate
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Business Registration Certificate
- Partnership Deed or Authorization Letter
- Proof of Authorized Signatory
- ID Proof of Authorized Signatory
- Copy of Applicant’s PAN Card
Manage and Maintain Your DSC
Track DSC Application
Renew DSC
Lost/Stolen DSC
Suspend/Revoke DSC
How to Track the DSC Application Status?
To track the status of your DSC application, follow these steps:
- Visit the CA Website: Go to the Certifying Authority's (CA) website where you applied for the DSC.
- Log In to Your Account: Use your credentials to log in to your account.
- Navigate to Application Status: Look for the "Track Application" or "Status" section on the website.
- Enter Required Details: Enter your application number or reference number (provided during the application process).
- Check Status: The website will display the current status of your DSC application (e.g., under processing, issued, pending verification).
Process of Renewing the DSC
- Check DSC Expiry Date: Verify that your DSC is nearing its expiration (usually 1-2 years of validity).
- Visit the Certifying Authority (CA) Website: Go to the website of the Certifying Authority (CA) that issued your DSC (e.g., e-Mudhra, NCode, SafeScrypt, etc.).
- Log In to Your Account (If required): If you have an account with the CA, log in. If not, create a new account on the CA's portal.
- Click on "Renew Certificate": After logging in, navigate to the renewal section and click on “Renew Certificate”.
- Select User Type: Choose the appropriate user type (Individual, organization)
- Select Certificate Type: Choose the certificate type (signature, encryption, both) based on your need
- Choose Validity Period: Select the validity period for your DSC (1 year, 2 years, 3 years, etc.).
- Click on “Buy Certificate: Once the details are filled, click on “Buy Certificate” to proceed with the renewal purchase.
- Verify Your Identity: Complete the online verification with documents (e.g., PAN, Aadhaar) or digital methods.
- Download Your Renewed DSC: After verification and payment, the CA will issue, and you can download your renewed DSC.
What to Do if Your Digital Signature is Lost or Stolen?
- Notify the Certifying Authority (CA): It is important to inform the Certifying Authority (CA) immediately to ensure that your DSC is cancelled and to prevent any unauthorized use.
- Request DSC Revocation: The CA will cancel the DSC, ensuring it is no longer valid and cannot be used for signing documents or accessing secure information.
- Apply for a New DSC: After cancellation, you can apply for a new DSC. The CA may require re-verification of your identity, typically through official documents like PAN, Aadhaar, etc.
- Update Signature Records: Once you receive the new DSC, you’ll need to update it on any platforms or services where the old DSC was being used.
- Secure Your DSC Going Forward: Storing your DSC and USB token securely and using a strong PIN is essential to prevent future losses or unauthorized access.
- Monitor for Unusual Activity: It's important to monitor accounts where your DSC was used to catch any suspicious or fraudulent activity early.
- File a Police Report (if necessary): If you suspect your DSC was stolen and could be used for illegal activities, filing a police report is a prudent step, especially for legal protection and any potential fraud cases.
- Change Related Passwords: Changing the passwords associated with your DSC is a good security measure to ensure unauthorized access is prevented.
- Inform Relevant Organizations: If you use your DSC for business or government-related services, it’s crucial to inform the respective organizations to prevent any misuse.
When Can the Applicant Suspend or Revoke a DSC?
Suspension of DSC (Section 37)
An applicant (subscriber) can request the suspension of their Digital Signature Certificate under the following conditions:
- If they no longer wish to use the DSC temporarily.
- If there is a security concern or misuse of the DSC.
- If they have been authorized to act on behalf of another person or organization and need to suspend the DSC.
Revocation/Cancellation of DSC (Section 38)
An applicant (subscriber) can request the cancellation of their Digital Signature Certificate in these cases:
- If they no longer need the DSC, or if they want to permanently stop using it.
- In case of loss of the private key or if the key has been compromised.
- If the subscriber passes away or the organization (like a company or firm) dissolves.
- If the information in the DSC is found to be incorrect or misleading.
Know the Law
In India, Digital Signature Certificates (DSCs) are legally recognized under the Information Technology Act, 2000, which provides the foundation for secure and authenticated electronic transactions.
Legal Highlights
Consequences of Breach
Key Legal Highlights
- Section 3 of the IT Act grants legal validity to digital signatures that are created using asymmetric cryptography and a secure hash function.
- Section 35 authorizes licensed Certifying Authorities (CAs) to issue DSCs under the supervision of the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA), Government of India.
- The CCA is a regulatory body under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), responsible for the regulation and supervision of CAs.
- A digitally signed document holds the same legal status as a handwritten signature, provided it is issued and used in accordance with the law.
Under Section 66C, 71, 72, 73, 74, If anyone is involved in fraudulent activities or misuse related to digital signatures, penalties under the relevant sections may be imposed. Consequences may include:
- Imprisonment: The accused may face imprisonment
- Fines: A fine may be imposed for various offenses like misrepresentation, breach of confidentiality, and fraudulent publication.
- Legal Action: Legal proceedings may be initiated against the individual involved in the fraudulent activity.
- Career Impact: Being involved in such fraudulent activities can severely damage an individual’s professional reputation and trustworthiness.
Do's & Don'ts
Do's
Don'ts
- Choose a Trusted CA: Apply through a recognized Certifying Authority accredited by the government.
- Verify Your Identity: Submit accurate proof of identity and address for verification.
- Ensure Correct Details: Double-check all details in your application to match official documents.
- Keep Your Private Key Safe: Store your private key in a secure device like a USB token or smart card.
- Choose the Right DSC Class: Select the appropriate DSC class based on your needs (Class 1, 2, or 3).
- Keep Backup Copies: Backup your DSC securely in encrypted storage for recovery.
- Renew on Time: Ensure you renew your DSC before it expires to avoid service disruption.
- Read Terms and Conditions: Understand the legal responsibilities and terms associated with your DSC.
- Don’t Share Your Private Key: Never share your private key with anyone under any circumstances.
- Don’t Provide Incorrect Information: Ensure your application details are accurate to avoid rejection.
- Don’t Use Insecure Storage: Avoid storing your private key on unsecured devices or cloud services.
- Don’t Ignore Expiry Dates: Renew your DSC well before it expires to prevent interruption.
- Don’t Share Passwords: Keep your DSC passwords private and never share them.
- Don’t Use Untrusted Sources: Apply only with certified and authorized Certifying Authorities.
- Don’t Misuse DSC: Avoid using your DSC for illegal or unauthorized activities.
- Don’t Neglect Security: Regularly update security software and avoid phishing or malware risks.
Why Choose DigiLawyer for Your DSC Registration?
At DigiLawyer, we make obtaining your Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) fast, secure, and hassle-free. Our experts ensure your DSC is issued as per Indian IT Act guidelines, giving you a legally valid certificate for all your business and compliance needs. With a seamless online process, competitive pricing, and dedicated support, we help you sign documents digitally with confidence.
- Trusted Certification - Issued by government-approved Certifying Authorities
- We Handle the Details – From form filling to verification, we guide you at every step
- Competitive Pricing - Affordable plans with transparent costs
- Dedicated Support - Expert assistance available at every stage
- Renewal Assistance - We’ll let you know when it's time to renew and help you do it
- Quick & Easy Process – Apply online in minutes, get your DSC fast
FAQs Related to DSC
A Digital Signature certificate is usually valid for 1 or 3 years, depending on the option selected during application. After expiry, it needs to be renewed.
Yes, a DSC stored in a USB token can be used on any computer. However, the DSC itself cannot be copied or installed on multiple devices directly, it must be accessed through the token.
The time frame for issuing a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) typically ranges from 3 to 7 business days. However, it may take longer if additional verification or documents are required.
A Signature Certificate is used to digitally sign documents, ensuring the signer’s authenticity and that the content remains unchanged.
An Encryption Certificate is used to securely encrypt data, ensuring only the intended recipient can read it.
To create a digital signature online, select a Certifying Authority (CA), fill out the application, and submit necessary documents (e.g., PAN, Aadhaar). Complete identity verification, make the payment, and download your Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) once issued.
Yes, you can hold multiple DSCs. There are no restrictions on the number of DSCs an individual or business can possess. In fact, having multiple certificates may be beneficial in certain cases, such as when you need different certificates for various purposes (e.g., personal, business, or legal).
Yes, a DSC can be used across multiple businesses if you are the authorized signatory for each. However, for organization-level encryption or signing, a separate organizational DSC may be required.
You can apply for a DSC through licensed Certifying Authorities (CAs) like eMudhra, Capricorn, or Sify. The process typically involves—or you can let the DigiLawyer team handle it for you:
- Choosing the type of DSC (Class 2 or Class 3).
- Submitting identity and address proof documents.
- Undergoing Aadhaar-based eKYC or in-person verification.
- Receiving the DSC on a USB token.
While it is common for Chartered Accountants (CAs) to hold DSCs on behalf of clients, it is essential to ensure its security:
- Regularly monitor your account activities.
- Change passwords associated with the DSC.
- If concerned, request the return of the DSC token or revoke its usage through the Certifying Authority.
Many frauds related to NCLT involve sharing DSCs; therefore, never share your DSC with anyone except yourself.
If you lose your DSC token or suspect misuse:
- Immediately inform your Certifying Authority to block the DSC.
- File a complaint with the relevant authorities if necessary.
- Obtain a new DSC if required.
Yes, with Aadhaar-based eKYC, you can apply for a DSC online without being physically present in India. The process involves secure video verification and submission of necessary documents. The DigiLawyer team can assist you throughout this entire process, with expert professionals managing everything for you.
Yes, NRIs can use a DSC for e-filing income tax returns in India. However, in many cases, using Aadhaar OTP or net banking may be sufficient for verification. DSCs are often used for compliance and convenience. The DigiLawyer team has expert income tax professionals who can help you with the entire process
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