DSC and DIN — What They Are and How to Get Them for Company Registration

If you are planning to register a company or LLP in India, two terms you will encounter immediately are DSC (Digital Signature Certificate) and DIN (Director Identification Number). Both are mandatory prerequisites for any company incorporation under the Companies Act 2013. This guide explains what each one is, why you need it and exactly how to get it.

What is a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)?

A DSC is the electronic equivalent of a handwritten signature. It is used to digitally sign forms and documents filed on the MCA (Ministry of Corporate Affairs) portal. Since all company registration forms are now filed online, DSCs are compulsory for all directors and designated partners.

DSCs in India are issued by Certifying Authorities (CAs) licensed by the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA). The commonly used DSCs for company registration are Class 3 DSCs, which provide the highest level of assurance and are required for MCA e-filing.

How to Obtain a DSC

DSCs are obtained from licensed Certifying Authorities such as eMudhra, Sify, NSDL, Capricorn and others. The process involves:

• Submitting an online application with the Certifying Authority
• Providing identity proof (PAN Card or Aadhaar)
• Providing address proof (Aadhaar or utility bill)
• Completing a video-based KYC verification (for Aadhaar-based DSC)
• Paying the DSC fee (typically ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 for 2 years)

A DSC is typically issued within 1 to 3 working days. It is valid for 1 or 2 years and must be renewed before expiry. The DSC is stored on a USB token (dongle) provided by the Certifying Authority.

What is a Director Identification Number (DIN)?

A DIN is a unique 8-digit identification number allotted to every individual who wants to be a director of a company in India. It is mandatory under Section 153 of the Companies Act 2013. No person can be appointed as a director without a DIN, and one individual can have only one DIN.

DINs are allotted by the Central Government (Ministry of Corporate Affairs) and remain valid for life unless surrendered or cancelled.

How to Obtain a DIN

There are two ways to get a DIN:

Method 1 — Through SPICe+ (at the time of company incorporation): If you are incorporating a new company, you can apply for a DIN for up to 3 directors directly through the SPICe+ form. The DIN is allotted along with the Certificate of Incorporation. This is the most common and efficient method.

Method 2 — Through DIR-3 form (for existing persons): If you need a DIN separately (e.g., to be appointed as a director in an existing company), file DIR-3 on the MCA portal with your PAN, photograph, identity and address proof. The DIN is allotted within 1 working day of verification.

Key Differences Between DSC and DIN

DSC is a technical tool for signing documents digitally. It expires and must be renewed. It is associated with a USB token or Aadhaar-linked eSign. DIN is a permanent identification number for directors. It does not expire (unless cancelled) and is linked to the PAN of the individual.

Director KYC — Annual Requirement

Every director who has been allotted a DIN must file DIR-3 KYC every year by 30 September. Failure to file this form results in the DIN being deactivated, preventing the director from signing or filing any forms until it is reactivated (with a late fee of ₹5,000).

Conclusion

DSC and DIN are the foundation of every company registration in India. Getting them right from the start saves time and avoids delays in the incorporation process. SPOTON's experts handle both as part of our complete company registration service — reach out for a free consultation today.