How to Apply for DSC Online – Step-by-Step Process
Introduction
A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is mandatory for many online government and business-related filings such as GST, MCA, Income Tax, and e-tendering. Applying for a DSC online is now a simple and fast process if you follow the correct steps.
In this blog, we will explain how to apply for DSC online step by step, required documents, and important things you should know before applying.
Who Can Apply for DSC?
The following individuals and entities can apply for a DSC:
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Individuals
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Company Directors
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Partners of LLP/Firms
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Professionals (CA, CS, CMA, Lawyers)
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Businesses and Organizations
Documents Required to Apply for DSC
Before applying, keep the following documents ready:
Identity Proof
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Aadhaar Card
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PAN Card
Address Proof
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Aadhaar Card
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Voter ID / Passport / Driving License
Other Requirements
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Passport-size photograph
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Email ID & mobile number
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USB token (for storing DSC, if required)
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for DSC Online
Step 1: Choose the Type of DSC
First, decide which DSC you need:
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Class 2 DSC (for GST, MCA, Income Tax)
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Class 3 DSC (for e-tendering and high-security transactions)
Step 2: Select a Licensed Certifying Authority
Choose a government-approved Certifying Authority (CA) or authorized DSC service provider to apply online.
Step 3: Fill the Online Application Form
Enter your personal or organizational details such as:
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Name
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Email ID
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Mobile number
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Address
Select the validity period (1 year or 2 years).
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
Upload scanned copies of:
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Identity proof
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Address proof
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Photograph
Ensure all documents are clear and valid.
Step 5: Complete Video / In-Person Verification
Most DSC providers now use video-based verification:
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Show original documents
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Verify face and identity
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Confirm application details
This step ensures security and authenticity.
Step 6: Make Payment
Pay the DSC application fee online using:
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Debit card
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Credit card
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Net banking
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UPI
Step 7: DSC Issuance and Download
After successful verification:
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DSC is issued within a few hours to 1–2 working days
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Download and install DSC on your system
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Store DSC securely in a USB token (if applicable)
Validity of DSC
A DSC is generally valid for:
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1 year or
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2 years
After expiry, it must be renewed to continue usage.
Important Tips Before Applying for DSC
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Choose the correct DSC class
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Ensure documents match your details exactly
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Keep your USB token safe
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Renew DSC before expiry
Conclusion
Applying for a Digital Signature Certificate online is a quick and secure process when done correctly. By following the above step-by-step guide, individuals and businesses can easily obtain DSC and complete their online filings without hassle.
Written by:
Abhishek Gupta
Chartered Accountant
Office No. 19, Sagar Building, 4th Floor, Plot-327,
Narshi Natha Street, Masjid Bunder (West),
Mumbai – 400009
📞9324776120
🌐 www.consultguruji.com
