Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is a government-approved electronic ID that lets you legally sign digital documents. In India, only Class 3 DSC is issued now. You can get it sitting at home through any licensed CA like eMudhra or Capricorn using your Aadhaar OTP. It takes 1 to 3 working days and costs between Rs. 1,000 and Rs. 4,350, plus 18% GST on top.
What is a Digital Signature ?
A DSC is the digital version of your handwritten signature.
When you sign a paper document with a pen, it proves that you approved it. A DSC does the exact same thing for digital documents — but with one big upgrade. Once you sign a digital document with a DSC, nobody can change even a single word in it. If someone tries to change anything, the signature automatically becomes invalid. The receiver will know the document has been tampered with.
In India, a DSC is legally valid under the Information Technology Act, 2000. That means it holds the same weight as a physical signature — even in court.
Types of DSC — Which One Should You Get?
Earlier in India, there were three types — Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3. But Class 1 and Class 2 were discontinued in January 2021. Today, only Class 3 DSC is issued. It is the most secure type and is valid on all government portals.
Class 1 — No longer available. It was only used for basic email verification.
Class 2 — Discontinued in January 2021. It was used for Income Tax and ROC filings earlier.
Class 3 — This is the one you need. Highest security level. Valid for ITR, GST, MCA, e-Tender, Trademark, and all major government portals.
Class 3 DSC Has Two Subtypes. Here is the Difference:
Sign Only DSC:
This is used to digitally sign documents. It works for Income Tax, GST, MCA, e-Tender, and most other government portals. For 95% of people, this is enough.
Sign and Encrypt DSC:
This does two things — it signs the document and also locks it so only the intended person can read it. You only need this if you work on the Customs portal called ICEGATE or the DGFT portal.
Which One to Pick:
For most individuals and small businesses, Sign Only Class 3 DSC is more than enough. Only go for Sign and Encrypt if you regularly work with Customs or DGFT. If you are not sure, just go with Sign Only.
Where is DSC Required in India?
Here is a list of places where DSC is either mandatory or required:
Income Tax Return (ITR) — Mandatory for companies. Type needed: Class 3 Sign.
GST Registration and Filing — Mandatory. Type needed: Cgistration
lass 3 Sign.
MCA (Company Registration and ROC filings) — Mandatory. Type needed: Class 3 Sign.
E-Tendering (GeM, CPPP portals) — Mandatory. Type needed: Class 3 Sign.
Trademark Filing on IP India portal — Mandatory. Type needed: Class 3 Sign.
Customs portal ICEGATE — Mandatory. Type needed: Class 3 Sign and Encrypt.
EPFO and PF Filings — Required for employers. Type needed: Class 3 Sign.
LLP Registration — Mandatory. Type needed: Class 3 Sign.
Note:
One Class 3 DSC works for multiple portals. You do not need a separate DSC for Income Tax, a different one for GST, and another for MCA. As long as it is in your name, the same DSC works everywhere.
Documents Required for DSC
The documents required depend on who is applying. Here is the complete checklist:
For an Individual:
- Aadhaar Card — this is mandatory and your mobile number must be linked to it
- PAN Card
- Passport size photograph
- Active email ID
For a Company or Organization (these are needed along with the above):
- Company or LLP PAN Card
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Board Resolution clearly naming the authorized signatory
- GST Certificate if available
Aadhaar eKYC Makes It Even Easier:
If you choose Aadhaar-based eKYC verification, you do not need to upload any physical documents at all. You just enter your Aadhaar number, receive an OTP on your registered mobile, and that is it. No scanning, no uploading, no visits. This is the fastest and easiest way to apply.
How to Get a DSC — Step by Step Process
In 2026, getting a DSC is 100% paperless. You can do the entire thing from home. Here is the full process:
Step 1: Choose a Government-Approved Certifying Authority (CA)
Start by selecting a licensed Certifying Authority (CA) authorized to issue DSCs in India. Popular options include eMudhra, Capricorn, ProDigisign, VSign, Sify, and NSDL.
Tip: Prodigisign the most widely used providers due to their reliable service and customer support.
Step 2: Submit the Online Application
Visit the CA’s website and select the appropriate Class 3 DSC. Fill in the required details, such as:
- Full Name
- Date of Birth
- PAN Number
- Aadhaar Number
- Email Address
- Mobile Number
You will also need to choose whether you are applying as an Individual or on behalf of an Organization.
Step 3: Complete Identity Verification (KYC)
To verify your identity, you can choose either of the following methods:
Option A: Aadhaar eKYC (Fastest Method)
- Enter your Aadhaar number.
- Verify using the OTP sent to your registered mobile number.
- No document upload is required.
Option B: Video KYC (V-CIP)
- Record a short video as instructed by the CA.
- Display your PAN Card and Aadhaar Card clearly during verification.
Step 4: Make the Payment
Pay the applicable DSC fee online using:
- UPI
- Net Banking
- Debit Card
- Credit Card
The cost typically varies based on the type and validity of the DSC.
Step 5: Receive Your DSC
After successful verification and approval, the Certifying Authority will send a confirmation via email or SMS.
Your DSC may be provided in either of the following formats:
- USB Crypto Token (Physical Device)
- Downloadable Digital Certificate (where applicable)
Processing usually takes 1–3 working days.
Step 6: Install and Start Using Your DSC
If your DSC is issued on a USB Token:
- Connect the token to your computer.
- Install the required driver software.
- Access the relevant government portal.
- Select the digital signing option and use your DSC to sign documents securely.
Once activated, your DSC can be used for GST filing, Income Tax filing, MCA compliance, eTendering, EPFO filings, and various other online government services.
Not sure about any of these steps? Let CharteredHelp handle the entire DSC process for you. From form filling to delivery — we take care of everything. Our team in Sector 18, Noida has helped hundreds of businesses and individuals get their DSC without any hassle. Call us now at +91-92666-85656 and we will get started right away.
How Much Does a DSC Cost?
The cost of a Class 3 DSC in India depends on how long it is valid for. All prices below have 18% GST added separately on top:
1.Year Validity — Approximately Rs. 1500. That works out to Rs. 1,000 per year. Best for: People who want to try it out for the first time.
2. Year Validity — Approximately Rs. 2500. That works out to Rs. 750 per year. Best for: Regular filers who need it consistently.
3. Year Validity — Approximately Rs. 4500. That works out to Rs. 1500 per year. Best for: The most value for money option. This is what we recommend.
USB Token Cost: Rs. 500 to Rs. 700 extra. This is optional if you already have a compatible token from before.
What Affects the Price:
- Validity period — the longer the validity, the better the per-year value
- Which CA you choose — pricing is similar across licensed CAs with minor differences
- USB Token — optional but recommended for most users
- Individual vs Organization — documents differ but price is mostly the same
Real Benefits of a DSC — It is More Than Just a Legal Requirement
Most people get a DSC only because the government made it mandatory. But honestly, a DSC makes your everyday work much easier too. Here are six real benefits you will feel:
1. Big Saving on Time
Earlier you had to print a document, sign it by hand, scan it, and then email it. That whole process could take hours. With a DSC, you sign and submit with one click. You can sit in Mumbai and file something for your Hyderabad office without moving an inch.
2. You Save Money Too
No more courier charges. No notary fees in many cases. No more travelling to your CA or agent. No printing or scanning costs. Once you have a DSC, almost everything can be done from your desk.
3. Documents Are 100% Tamper-Proof
After a document is signed with a DSC, not even a single word can be changed. If anyone tries to alter it, the signature automatically becomes invalid and the receiver gets alerted. This holds up as valid evidence even in court.
4. Builds Trust With the Receiver
Whoever receives your signed document knows it is genuine. There is zero chance of a forged or fake document slipping through. This builds trust in business transactions and is accepted by banks and financial institutions as well.
5. Work From Anywhere
You can file from home, from your office, or even while travelling. Government portals are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. No more panicking about last-minute ITR or GST deadlines.
6. One DSC, Many Uses
The same DSC works for ITR, GST, MCA, e-Tenders, and more. You do not need a separate DSC for each portal. And with a 3-year validity, you do not have to reapply every year.
Note: If you file even 4 to 5 times a year and your DSC costs Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 1,500, the money you save on courier, travel, and notary will easily be more than the DSC cost. In the long run, a DSC actually saves you money.
DSC is Approved — Now How Do You Download It?
This is the step where most people get confused. The DSC gets approved, the email arrives, but what next? Here is a simple CA-wise download guide:
First Thing to Do:
Plug your USB Token into your computer and install the CA’s Driver Software. Without the driver, the download button simply will not work. The driver file is available in the Downloads section of the CA’s website, or it comes in the box with the token.
Download Not Working? Check These 3 Things:
First, is the USB token properly plugged in? Second, is the driver software installed? Third, is the token password correct? If all three are fine and it still is not working, call the CA’s helpline. All CAs have a free customer support line.
After Downloading — How to Use Your DSC for the First Time:
Step 1: Plug in the USB Token. Connect it to your laptop or desktop. Windows will show a New Hardware Detected message if the driver is correctly installed.
Step 2: Open the government portal where you need to sign. Log in to your account as usual.
Step 3: Choose the Sign with DSC option. When you are about to submit, the portal will show a Sign with DSC button. Click it. A popup will appear showing your certificate name.
Step 4: Enter your Token Password. Type the password you set during setup. Done — your document is now signed.
Important: Entering the wrong token password 3 times in a row will lock the token. Be careful.
How to Check Your DSC Validity
It happens very often. You go to the GST or Income Tax portal to sign something and it says DSC is invalid or expired. That creates panic right before a deadline. The smart move is to check your DSC validity before the filing season begins every year.
Step 1: Plug your USB Token into your laptop or desktop. The driver software will activate automatically.
Step 2: Open the Token Management Tool. Search for Token Manager in Windows, or type the name of your CA’s tool — for example, ePass2003 Token Manager for eMudhra users.
Step 3: Log in using your token password. If you have forgotten the password, contact the CA — a reset is possible.
Step 4: Click on your certificate name. After logging in, your certificate will appear in a list. Click on it.
Step 5: Open the Details tab. You will clearly see two dates — Valid From and Valid To. The Valid To date is your expiry date. Tip: Start the renewal process at least 30 days before the expiry date.
When Should You Renew?
If your DSC is expiring within 30 days, go to the same CA’s portal and apply for renewal. The process is exactly the same — Aadhaar eKYC or Video KYC. Renewal fees are slightly lower than getting a new one. One important thing — if the DSC has already expired, renewal is not possible. You will need to apply for a completely fresh one.
What to Do If You Lose Your USB Token:
Call your CA immediately and ask them to revoke the DSC. Once revoked, nobody can use that certificate — your data and identity stay safe. Revocation is free with all CAs. After that, you will need to apply for a new DSC.
Encrypt-Only DSC — When Do You Actually Need It?
When most people talk about DSC, they are talking about the Sign type. But there is another type called Encrypt-Only DSC. Most people never need it, but for some specific situations, it is essential.
Sign Only DSC:
Puts a digital signature on the document. For individuals and companies doing standard filings. Used for ITR, GST, MCA, and e-Tenders.
Encrypt Only DSC:
Locks the document so only the intended recipient can read it. Used by companies that regularly transfer confidential documents electronically. Common in legal, e-commerce, and enterprise setups.
Sign and Encrypt DSC:
Does both — signs the document and locks it. Required for Customs ICEGATE portal and DGFT portal users involved in export-import work.
Simple Way to Understand Encrypt:
Imagine you wrote a letter and put it in a special lockbox. Only the person who has the matching key can open it. Even if someone intercepts the box, they cannot read what is inside. That is exactly what the Encrypt DSC does to your digital documents.
For 95% of People:
If you are an individual or run a small to medium business, Sign Only Class 3 DSC is completely enough. Only go for Encrypt DSC if you are regularly transferring sensitive and confidential documents at an enterprise level.
5 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for DSC
1. Mobile Number is Not Linked to Aadhaar
The eKYC process sends an OTP to your Aadhaar-registered mobile. If your number is not linked or has been changed, eKYC will fail right at the start.
How to fix it: Call UIDAI helpline 1947 or visit your nearest Post Office to update your mobile number in your Aadhaar.
2. Name is Different on PAN and Aadhaar
If your PAN says Ramesh Kumar but your Aadhaar says R. Kumar, the verification system may reject it. The CA system checks that both documents match.
How to fix it: Check your PAN-Aadhaar link status on the Income Tax portal. Get the name corrected before applying for DSC.
3. Poor Lighting or Blurry Documents in Video KYC
In Video KYC, you need to clearly show your PAN and Aadhaar to the camera. If they are blurry or your face is not clearly visible, the video gets rejected and you have to redo it.
How to fix it: Record in bright natural light. Use original documents, not laminated cards. Laminated cards create glare on camera.
4. Buying From an Unauthorized Website
Some websites claim to sell DSCs but are not actually licensed. A DSC bought from an unauthorized source will not work on any government portal. Your money is gone.
How to fix it: Always verify the authorized CAs list on mca.gov.in before purchasing.
5. Forgetting the Token Password
Many people set a very simple token password or do not write it down anywhere. After three wrong attempts, the token gets locked and you have to contact the CA to get it unlocked, which takes time.
How to fix it: Write down the password somewhere safe. Use a password manager app or a secure notebook. Never share it with anyone.
Worried about making a mistake in your DSC application? That is exactly why CharteredHelp exists. We verify your documents, check your Aadhaar-PAN details, and make sure your application goes through the first time itself — no rejections, no delays. Reach us at +91-92666-85656 or visit us at Sector 18, Noida.
DSC vs eSign — What is the Difference?
This confusion is extremely common. When you sign something with an Aadhaar OTP, you might think that is a DSC. It is not. That is eSign. Here is how they are different:
How it works: DSC uses a USB token or software file with PKI technology. eSign uses your Aadhaar OTP or biometric to verify.
Do you need hardware? DSC usually needs a USB token. eSign needs nothing extra — just your phone and Aadhaar.
Valid on government portals? DSC is fully valid on all government portals. eSign is only accepted on specific platforms.
Security level: DSC is the highest level of security and holds up as strong evidence in court. eSign is medium security and works well for basic transactions.
Cost: DSC is a one-time cost of Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 4,350 for 1 to 3 years. eSign charges you per use, roughly Rs. 20 to Rs. 30 per signature.
When to use which: For mandatory government filings like ITR for companies, GST, and MCA, you need a DSC. For simple bank KYC or signing a private document, eSign can work fine.
Note:
If the government portal requires it, go with DSC. If it is a simple private document or bank form, eSign is fine. When in doubt, DSC is always the safer choice because it is valid everywhere.
Frequently Asked Questions
A DSC is an electronic document issued by a government-licensed Certifying Authority that proves your digital identity. It is legally valid under the Information Technology Act, 2000 and carries the same weight as a handwritten signature. In India, it is required for filing on portals like Income Tax, GST, MCA, e-Tender, and Trademark where filings are not accepted without one.
The entire process is online in 2025. Go to a licensed CA portal like eMudhra or Capricorn. Fill in the Class 3 DSC form. Complete identity verification through Aadhaar OTP eKYC or a 25-second Video KYC. Pay the fee which ranges from Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 4,350 plus GST. Your DSC will be ready in 1 to 3 working days.
For an individual you need an Aadhaar Card with your mobile number linked to it, a PAN Card, a passport size photo, and an active email ID. If you use Aadhaar eKYC, no physical documents need to be uploaded — just the OTP is enough. For a company, you additionally need the Company PAN, Certificate of Incorporation, and a Board Resolution.
A Class 3 DSC costs approximately Rs. 1,000 for 1 year, Rs. 1,500 for 2 years, and Rs. 4,350 for 3 years. All prices have 18% GST added separately. A USB Token costs an extra Rs. 500 to Rs. 700. The 3-year plan gives you the best value per year.
Go back to the same CA’s portal and apply for renewal before it expires. The renewal process is the same as getting a new one — eKYC or Video KYC. Renewal fees are slightly lower. Important: if the DSC has already expired, renewal is not possible. You will need to apply for a completely new DSC.
Yes. One Class 3 DSC works across multiple government portals including Income Tax, GST, MCA, e-Tender, and EPFO — as long as it is issued in your name. There is no need to get separate DSCs for each portal.
Contact your CA immediately and ask them to revoke the DSC. Once revoked, the certificate cannot be used by anyone — your identity and data stay protected. Revocation is free with all CAs. After revoking, apply for a fresh DSC.
Yes, technically a person can hold DSCs from different CAs — for example one for personal use and one as an authorized signatory for a company. However, only one active DSC should exist from the same CA at any given time. In practice, most people only need one DSC that covers everything.
Yes, you still have two options. First, update your mobile number in Aadhaar through UIDAI by visiting a Post Office or UIDAI enrollment centre. Second, choose Video KYC instead of eKYC. Video KYC does not require an Aadhaar OTP. You just record a short video with your original documents. It may take 1 to 2 extra working days compared to eKYC.
Get Your DSC Done Today — CharteredHelp, Noida
Getting a DSC should not be stressful. At CharteredHelp, we have helped hundreds of individuals, companies, and CAs across India get their Digital Signature Certificate quickly and without any confusion.
Whether you are a business owner in Noida, a CA filing for your client, or someone applying for the first time — we are here to help.
What we offer:
- Complete DSC assistance from start to finish
- Zero hidden charges
- Same day processing in most cases
- CA-verified process
- Serving clients across Noida, Delhi NCR, and all of India
Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only. DSC pricing is based on published rate lists of CCA-registered Certifying Authorities for 2025-26. Prices may vary. Always verify the latest pricing directly on the official CA website. 18% GST is charged separately on all plans.
