How to Apply for a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) Online

Have you ever tried to register your business under GST only to hit a roadblock since it is mandatory for certain types of businesses? Don’t worry, you are not alone. In this blog, you will understand what DSC is, how to apply for a DSC online and its pricing. 

What is DSC (Digital Signature Certificate)? 

Let’s start with the basics. The full form of DSC is Digital Signature Certificate. It is the digital equivalent of a physical or paper certificate, used to prove your identity and sign documents online.

Think of it this way: every time you file returns online, you are providing a legally binding acknowledgement that the information submitted is accurate and you, as a designated signatory, approve it. In India, digital signatures are equivalent to physical signatures in terms of legal binding. 

DSC Classes: Know Your Choices

The following are the different classes of DSC that you should be aware of: 

Class 1: It was only suitable for low-risk transactions. However, it has been discontinued since it was unable to provide the required level of identity verification. 

Class 2: Discontinued in January 2021 

Class 3: Provides the highest degree of authentication by utilising Aadhaar eKYC, video verification and other such methods. It is accepted on all government and enterprise platforms, including GST, MCA, Income Tax, e-Tendering and many others.

Where is DSC Mandatory?

For the following returns and filings, Class 3 DSC is mandatory: 

• Income Tax Returns (ITR) for audited accounts

• ROC filings with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (e.g., DIR‑3, AOC‑4, MGT‑7)

• GST registration and returns

• Patent and trademark filings

• Customs declarations

• E‑tendering and procurement processes

• E‑auctions and contract signing

How Much does a Class 3 DSC Cost?

Here are the factors that determine the price of DSC, which you should consider before ordering a Class 3 DSC: 

• Certificate validity (1–3 years)
• USB token or secure download
• Application support and KYC verification
• Shipping and handling (if you receive a physical token)
• Renewal support

DSC is not an accessory; it is a legal requirement for filing returns. Always choose a reputable DSC provider with prompt customer support to prevent last-minute glitches during filing. 

The price varies widely depending on the above-mentioned factors. After doing a thorough analysis, we conclude that the general market range starts from ₹800 and goes up to ₹5000. 

Step‑by‑Step Guide: How to Apply for a Class 3 DSC Online

The following is a step-by-step process for applying for Class 3 DSC online: 

Step 1: 

Select an authorised service provider; the popular names include: 

• eMudhra
• VSign
• Capricorn CA

We encourage you to check reviews and compare pricing before proceeding. 

Step 2: 

Choose the certification type you require from Sign, Encrypt, or Sign & Encrypt DSC.

Step 3: 

Get the required documents. Here is the list: 

• PAN card
• Aadhaar card (or other ID as requested)
• Email and mobile number (active, accessible)
• Passport-size photo 
• Address proof 
• Business details (if applying for organisation or entity DSC)

Step 4: 

Visit the website of your desired DSC service provider and fill out the application form. Provide the basic information such as name, address, contact information and PAN number.

Step 5: 

Complete the verification process via eKYC/e-sign. You may be asked to record a short video of yourself to verify your identity. 

Step 6: 

Some DSC service providers allow you to pay after the verification process, while others require upfront payment. 

Step 7: 

Once your identity gets successfully verified, you can download your certificate or receive a USB token via courier. 

How to Download and Install Your DSC Certificate

When your application for DSC gets approved, you will receive an email with instructions on how to download and install the Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) or how to use a USB token. Every service provider has slightly 

different procedures, so below is a general set of steps you may follow:

Step 1: Download Your Digital Signature Certificate

If your service provider offers a Secure Download option, they will provide you with a secure URL to access the Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) or ask you to log in to your account. Once logged in, download the Digital Signature Certificate file (.pfx or .p12) and save it securely. If you have ordered a USB token, it generally comes pre-loaded. 

Step 2: Install the Driver Software

Download the required driver software from the service provider’s website to operate the USB token. 

Step 3: Import the Digital Signature Certificate 

If you have downloaded the .p12 file, you need to import it into your system first. To import the file, you may be asked to enter a password, which you can get from your service provider. 

Step 4: Test the Signature 

Test the DSC on a sample form or visit the testing page of your DSC service provider to ensure it works properly. 

Closing Notes 

So if you really want to start a business in India and want to register your business under GST, DSC is not optional; it is part of the system now. Choose the right certificate, apply for GST and get your business registered. If you want to file GST returns smoothly and avoid last-minute hassles, you can explore Munim GST Return Filing software. It has everything you need. 

Frequently Asked Questions on DSC 

What is a digital signature​? 

A digital signature is a method for electronically signing a document, which allows users to prove that they were the one who signed the document, and that it has not been altered since it was digitally signed.

How to create a digital signature​? 

To get a digital signature certificate, you can apply online to a licensed Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) service provider along with your PAN card number, Aadhar card, photo, and other required Know Your Customer (KYC) details.

How to verify a digital signature in a PDF?

The following is the step-by-step process to add a digital signature to a PDF: 

1. Open the PDF document in Adobe Acrobat Reader.

2. Locate the signature panel or the digital signature mark in the PDF document.

3. If you click on the signature panel or the digital signature mark, you will be provided with a status report of whether the digital signature is valid.

How to add a digital signature to a PDF?​

The following are the steps to add a digital signature to a PDF: 

1. Open the PDF document in Adobe Acrobat Reader.

2. Click on Tools, then select the Certificates option from the menu options.

3. From the drop-down list of options, select Digitally Sign.

4. Choose the area of the PDF where you want to add your digital signature.

5. Select your Digital Signature Certificate (DSC).

6. Once you complete these steps, the PDF document will be saved with your digital signature and ready for sharing.

How to add a digital signature in MS Word​? 

In MS Word, go to Insert → Signature Line (or File → Info → Protect Document → Add a Digital Signature). Choose your preferred DSC when prompted. 

About the author

Mehul Jagwani

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Mehul is a seasoned content writer with a passion for simplifying complex accounting and GST topics. With a keen interest in entrepreneurship and business management, he specializes in creating informative and engaging content for themunim.com. His goal is to help businesses understand and implement accounting and GST software solutions effectively. When he's not crafting content, Mehul enjoys exploring new places and spending time with his Golden Retriever.