Individual DSC
In today’s digital era, authenticity and security are the cornerstones of online communication. A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) for individuals is not just a legal tool but a digital identity that validates your online presence. Much like your physical signature, a DSC confirms your consent, approval, and identity in the electronic world. It plays a crucial role in e-filing income tax returns, company filings with MCA, GST registration, tender submissions, and other government or private digital processes. By ensuring encryption and authentication, a DSC prevents misuse of your personal data and transactions. It also acts as a shield against fraud, ensuring that the documents you sign digitally cannot be tampered with. For professionals, business owners, and even salaried individuals, a DSC is becoming as essential as a PAN or Aadhaar. Unlike traditional signatures, it is backed by cryptographic technology, making it legally admissible in courts. The Information Technology Act, 2000 gives DSCs their legal sanctity in India. In short, possessing a DSC is like holding the master key to secure, paperless, and legally compliant online dealings.
- Passport-size photograph
- PAN card (self-attested)
- Aadhaar card / Passport / Voter ID / Driving License (any Govt. ID for address & identity proof)
- Email ID and mobile number
- Video verification (as per Certifying Authority process)
- Choose a Certifying Authority (CA) licensed by CCA (Controller of Certifying Authorities, Govt. of India).
- Fill DSC application form online or offline.
- Upload/submit self-attested ID & address proof with passport-size photo.
- Complete video KYC / biometric verification as required.
- Make payment and submit.
- Download DSC in USB token (e-Token) after approval.
An individual can have multiple DSCs for different purposes or authorities such as professional DSC and Personal DSC.
The legal validity period of a DSC is typically 1 to 2 years, as decided by the Certifying Authority
A DSC can be revoked before expiry if misuse, compromise, or inaccuracy is detected by the Certifying Authority.
If the USB token containing DSC is lost, it must be reported immediately; the Certifying Authority will revoke it and issue a new DSC.
Section 65B of the Indian Evidence Act read with the IT Act makes electronically signed documents valid evidence.
Under IT Act, 2000, misuse or forgery of DSC can attract fines up to ₹1 crore and imprisonment depending on the severity of offence.