A DSC is the digital equivalent of a physical or paper certificate. It may be presented electronically to prove one’s identity, access information or Services Over the Internet, or digitally sign certain documents. DSC may be required for e-filing of income tax returns, GST related filing, government online tendering etc.

Who can issue DSC?

A licensed certifying authority can issue a DSC. List of licensed officers available at MCA Portal and can be accessed at https://www.mca.gov.in/MinistryV2/certifyingauthorities.html.

Types of DSC

There are different types of Digital Signature Certificates: Class 2: Here, the identity of an individual is verified against a trusted, pre-verified database. Class 3: This is the highest level where one needs to present himself to a Registration Authority (RA) and prove your identity.

charge

a . cost of receiving digital signature certificate Varies as there are many institutions that issue DSC and their fees may vary.

Process to get DSC

One can obtain DSC by filling a form and submitting self-attested identity and address proofs. One can opt for Aadhaar and PAN based online application. After payment of the prescribed fee, the applicant has to complete an e-KYC by submitting a recorded video to the Certifying Authority. A DSC is issued electronically whereas a encrypted pen drive also sent to the applicant.

things to note

• Nowadays, DSC 2 is not issued and/or renewed, while DSC 3, which is a highly secure signature, is issued to applicants.
• Digital signatures are legally admissible in court, as provided under the provisions of the IT Act, 2000.

Content on this page is courtesy of Center for Investment Education and Learning (CIEL).
Contributions by Girija Gadre, Arti Bhargava and Labdhi Mehta.