How to Change Signature in PAN Card

Have you ever been in a situation where you were looking at your PAN card and thought, This is not even my signature anymore? Signatures change as you grow older- you might have adopted a more convenient style of signing, or your former signature simply does not feel good to you anymore. What is good news? It is possible to update it. However, it has to be precise in all your legal documents; otherwise, it may land you in trouble. 

In this guide, we will take you through PAN card signature change procedures in 2025, both offline and online PAN card signature change. Here is explanation of how to add a signature in a PAN card in case you forgot to do it earlier. Ok, then let’s move forward. 

Why Would You Change Your Signature in a PAN Card?

A signature is a significant element of the verification of identity. Mismatching of your PAN card with other documents, such as Aadhaar, bank, or income tax filings, may result in a delay in financial transactions. The following are the reasons behind the PAN Card signature change: 

• Change in signature style over the years
• Incorrect signature during initial PAN application
• Damaged or unclear signature on PAN Card
• Adding a signature if you only had a thumbprint earlier

Can I Change My Signature in PAN Card?

Yes. The Income Tax Department allows PAN Card signature change online. To make the new signature reflect on your PAN Card, you may have to order a reprint. 

Note: Your signature in the PAN database is what authenticates you in a number of legal and tax-related transactions. Therefore, it is important that your updated signature in the PAN Card matches with other legal documents, such as the Aadhaar Card, the Bank account, etc. 

How to Change Sign in PAN Card: Two Main Methods

You can change your PAN card signature either online through the NSDL/Protean or UTIITSL portal, or offline from your nearest PAN Suvidha Kendra: 

1. PAN Card Signature Change Online

Follow these steps to update your signature digitally:

Step 1: Visit the Official Portal

Go to the Protean (NSDL) website, click on the ‘Services’ > ‘PAN’ > ‘Apply Now’ > Then scroll down to ‘Change / Correction in PAN Data’ section and click on ‘Apply Now’.

Step 2: Fill the Online Application Form (Form 49A)

While filling the application for Change/Correction in PAN Card, provide your PAN, personal details, and select the “Signature Mismatch” option.

Step 3: Upload Documents

Proof of Identity (Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID)

Step 4: Proof of Address

Scanned signature specimen (clear and matching your desired signature)

Step 5: Pay the Fee

Fees vary for e-PAN and physical PAN delivery (generally around ₹ 100 for Indian addresses).

Step 6: Submit and Track

Submit the Form, note the acknowledgement number, and track your application online.

2. PAN Card Signature Change Offline in PAN Suvidha Kendra

Download the PAN Card signature change form and get a printout. Or else you can also get the same from nearest PAN Suvidha Kendra.

Step 2: Fill the Form and tick the box for Signature Update.

Step 3: Attach required documents (same as the online process).

Step 4: Affix two recent passport-size photographs.

Step 5: Sign the Form with your new signature.

Step 6: Pay the fees and submit the Form at the nearest PAN Suvidha Kendra.

PAN Card Signature Change Online: Image Specification

Before proceeding with PAN Card signature change online, it is necessary to have an image of your updated signature in the specifications mentioned below: 

• Dimensions: 2 cm x 4.5 cm
• Resolution: 200 DPI
• File Type: JPEG
• File Size: Maximum 50 KB

How to Add a Signature in a PAN Card (If Missing)

In case your PAN Card is issued without a signature or with a thumb impression, you can still add the signature by following one of the methods mentioned above. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Changing Signature in PAN Card 

• Using a different signature from the one in your Aadhaar or bank KYC.
• Submitting unclear images of your signature.
• Forgetting to sign the application form itself.
• Uploading a cropped signature that cuts off the edges.

Processing Time: PAN Card Signature Change

The majority of online PAN card signature change requests are completed in 10 to 15 working days, while offline applications may take up to 20 working days. Also, check out detailed guide on PAN Card Correction.

Final Thoughts

Changing the PAN card signature is not a complex procedure, but it requires attention to the details. Be it online or offline, when you change the signature on a PAN card, make sure that the same signature is used in all your legal documents. Even a minor difference in the signatures can invite complications later. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is the fee for a PAN card signature change?

Approximately ₹100 is the fee for PAN Card signature change for Indians. Fee may vary for NRI. 

How many days will it take to update the signature on the PAN card?

Online applications take about 10–15 working days; offline applications may take up to 20 working days.

What are the rules for signatures on a PAN card?

Your signature must match official records, be clear, should not touch the photograph, and stay within the designated signature box in the Form. Avoid overwriting or smudging.

Is a PAN card valid without a signature?

No, without a signature, a PAN Card is considered invalid. 

Can the PAN card and bank account signature be different?

It is fine if the size and style vary slightly from each other. However, the overall signature must be the same in appearance.