A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is the electronic equivalent of a physical signature. It proves the identity of the signer on documents filed online and is issued by certifying authorities licensed under the Controller of Certifying Authorities.
Where it's used
- Company and LLP filings on the MCA portal
- GST and income tax filings for certain taxpayers
- E-tendering and government procurement portals
- Signing contracts and documents electronically
Types of DSC
DSCs are issued as signing certificates, and some tender portals also require encryption certificates. They are issued for individuals and for organisations, with validity typically between one and three years.
Getting one
The process usually involves an online application, identity verification through Aadhaar or documents, and a video or mobile verification. The DSC is then issued on a secure USB token.
This article is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules, limits and fees change — check the official portal or speak to us about your specific situation.