How to Get a Digital Signature Certificate?

In today’s digital-first world, securing your online identity is essential, especially when filing income tax, registering for GST, bidding for government tenders, or signing contracts. A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) helps you do all of that securely, legally, and efficiently.

In this blog, we’ll explore:

• What a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is and who issues it
• How to choose the right Certifying Authority (CA) and DSC package
• Step-by-step process to apply for a DSC online or offline
• Required documents and identity verification checklist
• Cost and estimated time for issuance of DSC
• Common mistakes to avoid during the application process

Whether you’re an individual professional, business owner, or organizational representative, this guide will help you get your DSC the right way.

Choosing a Certifying Authority (CA) and DSC Package

Before applying for a DSC, it’s essential to understand who issues it and how to pick the right provider and type.

Licensed Certifying Authorities (CAs)

In India, DSCs can only be issued by licensed Certifying Authorities regulated by the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA) under the Information Technology Act, 2000. Some of the most trusted CAs include:

• eMudhra
• Safescrypt (Sify)
• nCode Solutions (NSDL e-Gov / Protean)
• Capricorn CA
• Vsign (Verasys)
• XtraTrust
• Pantasign
• Prodigisign
• IDSign

These authorities provide DSCs for both individuals and organizations with varying validity periods (1 to 3 years) and usage types.

The Role of the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA)

The CCA is a statutory body that licenses and regulates the functioning of CAs. It ensures compliance with national digital security standards and monitors operations to protect end users. You can verify if a CA is approved by checking the official CCA website (cca.gov.in).

Individual vs Organizational DSC

There are different types of DSCs depending on the applicant:

• Individual DSC: Suitable for personal use – income tax filing, GST registration, signing documents, etc.
• Organizational DSC: Meant for businesses and entities involved in tenders, compliance, or signing company documents.

Some CAs also offer DSCs for government agencies, foreign nationals, or specific purposes like the DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade).

Choosing the Right Package

When selecting a DSC, consider the following:

• Type of Certificate:
• • Class 3 DSCs are now standard for all digital transactions, including eTendering and eProcurement.
• Validity:
• • Choose between 1, 2, or 3-year validity as per your use frequency.
• Token Requirement:
• • Most DSCs require a USB token (cryptographic device) for secure use.
• Pricing:
• • Packages vary based on the provider and services offered (e.g., doorstep verification, express delivery).

Step-by-Step Process: How to Get a Digital Signature Certificate

Getting a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is a streamlined process that can be done entirely online. Follow these 7 steps to apply for and receive your DSC:

Step 1: Choose a Licensed Certifying Authority (CA)

To begin, choose a licensed Certifying Authority approved by the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA). Some trusted CAs in India include:

• eMudhra
• Safescrypt (Sify)
• Capricorn
• NSDL e-Gov (nCode)
• VSign
• XtraTrust
• IDSign

Find the complete list on the official CCA website:
https://www.cca.gov.in/licensed_ca.html

Step 2: Decide on the Class and Type of DSC

Select the class of DSC based on your intended use:

• Class 3 DSC (Recommended): Used for secure online transactions like income tax filing, e-Tenders, MCA filing, GST, etc.
• Choose between:
• • Individual DSC
  • Organizational DSC
  • DGFT DSC (for import/export-related filings)

Step 3: Fill Out the DSC Application Form

You can apply either online or offline. Most CAs offer a secure online portal.

Fill in the following details:

• Full name (as per PAN/Aadhaar)
• Date of birth
• Email ID
• Mobile number
• PAN number
• Residential address

Step 4: Complete Identity Verification

As per CCA guidelines, you must verify your identity using one of the following methods:

• Aadhaar-based eKYC (OTP or biometric)
• PAN-based eKYC
• Offline (paper-based) KYC – submit physical documents
• Bank-based KYC verification
• Biometric Aadhaar authentication (optional in some cases)

Step 5: Submit Supporting Documents

Upload or submit the following:

• Passport-size photograph
• PAN card (for identity proof)
• Aadhaar card / Passport / Driving license (for address proof)
• Attestation if applying offline (by Gazetted Officer / Bank Manager)

Step 6: Make the Payment

Pay the applicable DSC fee via:

• Credit/Debit Card
• Net banking
• UPI

DSC cost depends on:

• Validity (1, 2, or 3 years)
• Type (Individual or Organization)
• Whether the USB token is included

Step 7: Application Review and DSC Issuance

• The CA verifies your application and documents.
• You’ll be notified of the status via email/SMS.
• If all is correct, your DSC will be issued typically within 3–7 working days.

Delivery Methods:

• USB Token (Cryptographic token delivered by courier)
• Secure Email (Soft copy if applicable)

Documents & Verification Checklist

Before applying for a Digital Signature Certificate, it's important to gather the necessary documents and complete the required identity verification. Here's a quick checklist to ensure a smooth and successful application process.

For Individual Applicants:

• PAN Card (mandatory for identity verification)
• Address proof (any one):
• • Aadhaar Card
  • Passport
  • Bank statement (recent)
  • Utility bill (not older than 3 months)
• Passport-size color photograph (digital format)
• Active email ID and mobile number (for OTP verification)

For Organizational Applicants:

• Signatory’s PAN Card and address proof
• Organization’s PAN Card
• Certificate of Incorporation or business registration proof
• Authorization letter on company letterhead (authorizing the signatory to apply)

Accepted Verification Methods (as per CCA guidelines):

• Aadhaar-based eKYC (OTP-based or biometric)
• PAN-based eKYC
• Offline/paper-based KYC (with self-attested documents)
• Bank-issued KYC certificate
• Biometric verification (photo or fingerprint capture)

Cost of Getting a Digital Signature Certificate & Time Duration

Here is a tabular overview of the typical costs and timelines for getting a DSC in India:

Note: Costs may vary depending on the Certifying Authority, service provider, optional features (like doorstep verification), and whether you opt for bundled USB tokens.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While applying for a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC), even small errors can lead to delays or rejection. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure a smooth application process:

• Entering mismatched personal details:
  Ensure your name, date of birth, and other details exactly match your ID proofs (especially PAN and Aadhaar).
• Using expired or invalid documents:
  Address proofs like utility bills or bank statements should be recent (not older than 3 months). Outdated documents are often rejected.
• Uploading blurry or incomplete scans:
  Always upload clear, high-resolution scans or photos of your documents. Cropped or low-quality images can delay verification.
• Choosing the wrong DSC type or class:
  Understand whether you need an Individual or Organizational DSC, and select the correct class (Class 3 is most widely accepted now).
• Skipping verification steps:
  Not completing eKYC properly or skipping biometric/photo verification can lead to automatic rejection.
• Incorrect email or mobile number:
  Use a valid and accessible mobile number and email ID to receive OTPs and DSC activation links.
• Not checking CA credentials:
  Only apply through licensed Certifying Authorities approved by the CCA. Avoid unverified third-party agents.

Conclusion

Obtaining a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is now simpler and more accessible than ever. Whether you're an individual professional, business owner, or authorized representative of an organization, a DSC is your key to secure and legally recognized digital transactions.

By choosing the right Certifying Authority, submitting the correct documents, and completing your eKYC properly, you can avoid common mistakes and receive your DSC in just a few days. Always ensure your details are accurate, your documents are valid, and that you’re applying through a licensed CA approved by the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA).

As more government and business processes go paperless, a DSC is no longer optional—it’s essential. Take the right steps now to get your digital signature and unlock a seamless, secure digital future.