Digital Signature Certificates (DSCs) have become essential for filing Income Tax Returns (ITR), GST, company registration, e-tenders, and signing official documents online. In India, DSCs are issued by licensed Certifying Authorities (CAs) approved by the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA), under the IT Act, 2000.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get your DSC easily.
✅ Step 1: Understand Which DSC You Need
There are three types of Digital Signature Certificates:
| Type | Use Case |
|---|---|
| Class 3 | For filing ITR, GST, ROC/MCA forms, e-tenders, and signing official documents. This is the most widely used type. |
| Document Signer Certificate | Used by organizations for bulk document signing (not for individuals). |
| SSL Certificates | For websites (not for document signing). |
For individuals filing GST, ITR, or working in government departments – Class 3 DSC with FIPS 140-2 Level 3 token is generally required.
✅ Step 2: Choose a CCA-Certified Certifying Authority (CA)
You can choose any CCA-approved CA. Some popular names are:
- eMudhra
- Sify Technologies
- NSDL
- Verasys (PAN-based DSC)
- Capricorn
- Pantasign
- Rajasthan State CA (RISL) – especially for government employees and departments.
✅ Step 3: Decide How You Want to Apply
There are two ways to apply:
1. Online Application (Recommended): Most CAs offer a complete online process using Aadhaar eKYC.
2. Offline Application: Download the form, submit physical documents, and visit a Registration Authority (RA) office.
✅ Step 4: Complete the Application Form
Visit the website of your chosen CA. For example, eMudhra or Capricorn. Fill in the required details:
- Name, Email, Mobile Number
- PAN Card Number
- Aadhaar Number (for eKYC)
- Purpose (like GST, ITR, Tender, etc.)
✅ Step 5: Do Video or Aadhaar-Based eKYC
Depending on your CA:
- You’ll be asked to do Aadhaar OTP Verification, or
- Complete a live video recording showing your ID and reading a line for verification.
✅ Step 6: Make the Payment
DSC prices range from ₹500 to ₹1500 depending on:
- The CA you choose
- Validity (1, 2, or 3 years)
- Whether a token is included
💡 Tip: FIPS token (Cryptographic USB Token) is mandatory for GST, ITR, and official use. Ensure it’s FIPS 140-2 Level 3 certified.
✅ Step 7: Download or Receive Your DSC
Once approved:
- You’ll receive the DSC on a USB token (if selected)
- Or, download it via CA’s software directly to the token
✅ Step 8: Install DSC Software (if needed)
Install software provided by your CA to:
- Detect your USB token
- Enable DSC usage on official portals
✅ Step 9: Register Your DSC on Government Portals
Register your DSC on portals like:
📝 Final Tips
- Renew DSC before it expires
- Keep your USB token safe
- Use updated drivers/software for smooth usage
📌 Conclusion
Getting a Digital Signature Certificate in India is now a quick and simple process. Whether you’re a taxpayer, professional, or government employee, a DSC helps you sign documents securely and comply with digital rules.
For Rajasthan Government Employees and Departments, you can get your DSC directly from RISL – Rajasthan State Certifying Authority.
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