How to Get a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) in India

In India, Certifying Authorities (CAs) that have been approved provide a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC), which is a secure digital key. It is used to verify the identities of those who provide electronic documents to the Indian government. Digital signatures (DSCs) use new encryption technology to make things secure. Many digital legal, financial, and tax-related tasks need them.

Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) registration in India is essential for secure and legally valid digital transactions, making it mandatory for various government and business filings such as company registration, income tax returns, GST, MCA filings, and e-tenders. DSC acts as an electronic signature ensuring authenticity, integrity, and non-repudiation of digital documents under the Information Technology Act, 2000. The DSC registration process involves submitting KYC documents online, undergoing verification, and receiving a secure digital key or USB token. It offers faster, paperless workflows, reduces fraud risks, and builds trust in digital communications. Choosing the right DSC type (Class 2, Class 3, or DGFT) depends on the intended use, with Class 3 being mandatory for high-value transactions. Registering DSC boosts compliance efficiency and digital security, making it indispensable for businesses and professionals in India.

What is a certificate for a digital signature?

A DSC is a digital equivalent of a handwritten signature that makes online transactions safer and more dependable. It offers vital information such as the user's name, PI code, nationality, email address, date of issue, and the certifying authority's phone number. You can get the certificate again after one or two years.

Many government websites and platforms use DSCs to sign documents such as tax returns, MCA filings, GST applications, and tenders. The Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA) in India has given 15 certifying authorities the right to issue DSCs all over the country.

Different kinds of digital signature certificates

1. Signatures on certificates

You can only use these certificates to sign documents, like PDFs, electronic forms for GST returns, income tax filings, MCA forms, and other web services. The certificates verify the user's identification and ensure the integrity of the signed documents.

2. Protect certificates by encrypting them.

These certifications keep files and personal information safe. Posting critical legal, e-commerce, or tender papers on web portals keeps them safe and private.

3. Sign and encrypt the certificates.

Let users sign and encrypt files. This functionality is perfect for people who need to keep their personal information safe and private when filling out government forms, legal applications, or communicating sensitive information.

Different class of digital signature certificates

1. Class 1 Certificates: These are supplied to people or private subscribers to make sure that their name and email address are in the CA's database.
2. Class 2 Certificates were given out to people who filled out e-filing forms on government websites, such as those for the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) and Income Tax. But from January 1, 2021, Class 2 certifications will no longer be given out. Instead, people will receive Class 3 credentials.
3. You need a Class 3 Certificate to participate in online e-tenders, e-auctions, and government submissions since they offer the best security. You need a Class 3 Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) to file ROC forms, GST applications, patent and trademark applications, customs documents, and other government documents.