Overview of Digital Signature Certificate

A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) validates and certifies a person's identity using public-key encryption. It contains user information such as name, country, email address, and more. There are two classes of DSC:

• Class 2 DSC: Previously used for e-filings with the Registrar of Companies (ROC), now being replaced by Class 3 Certificates since January 2021. Verification is against a trusted database.

• Class 3 DSC: Required for online participation in e-auctions and tenders across India. It involves identity verification by a Registration Authority (RA) and is mandatory for directors/partners in private limited companies or LLPs.

Frequently asked questions

Who issues the Digital Signature certificate?

A licensed Certifying Authority (CA) issues digital signatures. A Certifying Authority (CA) is an entity authorized to issue digital signature certificates under Section 24 of the Indian IT Act 2000.

How much time does it take to get a DSC?

A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) can typically be issued within a day, depending on the provided documents and their authenticity.

What is the validity period of a digital signature certificate?

Certifying Authorities are authorized to issue Digital Signature Certificates with validity periods of one or two years.

Can I hold multiple digital signature certificates?

Yes, individuals can obtain separate digital signatures for personal and professional use. For diverse document authorizations, a Class 3 certificate is recommended due to its high-security level.