DSC (Digital Signature Certificate) — What It Is, Types, Cost, How to Get (2026)

A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is the digital equivalent of a physical signature, used to sign electronic documents, file income tax returns, GST returns, MCA forms, and bid on government portals. In this guide, we cover what DSC is, the different types, how to get one, and common uses.

What is a DSC?

A Digital Signature Certificate is an electronic certificate issued by a Certifying Authority (CA) that authenticates the identity of the holder. It is used to sign electronic documents, ensuring integrity + non-repudiation + authenticity. In India, DSCs are governed by the IT Act, 2000.

Types of DSC

• Class 1 and Class 2 DSC — Discontinued by the Controller of Certifying Authorities from 1 January 2021. Certifying Authorities now issue Class 3 certificates (plus document-signer certificates for organisations).
• Class 3 DSC — Highest security. Required for: income tax e-filing, GST filing, MCA filings (SPICe+, RUN, AOC-4, MGT-7, etc.), EPFO, ESIC, e-tenders, IRCTC, bank demat accounts.
• DGFT DSC — Sold by some Certifying Authorities for IEC holders; the DGFT portal also accepts a Class 3 DSC (or Aadhaar e-sign) for most filings, so check before paying extra.
• Foreign National DSC — For foreign nationals and NRIs without Indian KYC documents. Issued against a passport and address proof that are apostilled or consularised as the Certifying Authority requires.

Uses of DSC

• Income tax e-filing (ITR + audit reports + TDS returns)
• GST e-filing (GSTR-1, 3B, 9, 9C)
• MCA filings (Pvt Ltd / LLP / Section 8 registration + annual filings)
• EPFO e-filing (PF returns, transfers, claims)
• ESIC e-filing
• E-tenders (GeM, CPP, state portals, PSU tenders)
• Bank demat account (CDSL, NSDL)
• Property registration (state-wise)
• IRCTC agent registration
• PSARA license application
• Trademark filing (IP India)
• Customs + DGFT filings

How to Get a DSC

Step 1: Choose Certifying Authority (CA)

In India, the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA) licenses several CAs. Popular ones include eMudhra, Capricorn, (n)Code Solutions, PantaSign and VSign; the current list is on cca.gov.in. We recommend eMudhra for fast processing + pan-India presence.

Step 2: Choose DSC Type + Validity

Choose: Class 3 Individual (for tax filing), Class 3 Organization (for company director), DGFT (for IEC). Validity: 1, 2, or 3 years. Longer is cheaper (per year).

Step 3: Submit Application

Apply online via the CA's website. Submit: PAN, Aadhaar, photo, address proof, mobile + email. For organization DSC: PAN of company + authorization letter + KYC of authorized signatory.

Step 4: Video Verification

The CA conducts a video KYC to verify identity. You appear on video with your PAN + Aadhaar.

Step 5: DSC Issued

DSC is usually issued within 1-2 days of verification. For MCA, GST and income-tax filing it is normally downloaded onto a FIPS-compliant USB crypto token (₹500-₹1,000 extra if you do not already have one). Some Certifying Authorities also offer remote or cloud signing; check that the portal you file on accepts it before buying.

Typical market cost of DSC

Cloud / Remote-Signing DSC vs USB Token DSC

Frequently Asked Questions