A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is an electronic form of authentication that ensures secure and legally valid online transactions. Issued by Certifying Authorities (CAs), a DSC is used to electronically sign documents.
🔹 Data Integrity – Prevents tampering of digitally signed documents
🔹 Authentication – Confirms the identity of the signer
🔹 Legal Compliance – Recognized under the Information Technology Act, 2000
DSC is widely used for filing government forms, tender submissions, business transactions, and online registrations
Types of Digital Signature Certificates & Their Uses
The Digital Signature Certificates (DSCs) are classified into three categories based on their intended use:
1. Class 3 DSC (Highly Secure & Mandatory for Business Transactions)
✅ Used for e-Tenders, e-Procurement, GST filings, MCA filings, Income Tax Returns, EPF, ICEGATE registrations, and trademark filings.
✅ Issued only after in-person or video verification of the applicant.
2. Class 2 DSC (Discontinued)
❌ Class 2 DSC is no longer issued as per CCA guidelines. It has been merged into Class 3 DSC.
3. DGFT DSC (For Importers & Exporters)
✅ Exclusively for DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade) filings.
✅ Required for applying for an Importer Exporter Code (IEC) and other EXIM documentation.
Key Benefits of Using a DSC
✔ Legally Valid – Recognized under Indian IT Act, 2000 and accepted by government authorities.
✔ Data Security & Encryption – Ensures secure transactions and protects sensitive business data.
✔ Reduces Paperwork & Saves Time – Eliminates the need for physical signatures & couriering documents.
✔ Cost-Effective – Reduces printing and courier costs for document submissions.
✔ Prevents Fraud & Identity Theft – Ensures authenticity and prevents document alterations.
✔ Mandatory for Various Online Filings – Required for GST, Income Tax, EPF, MCA, and DGFT filings.
Who Needs a Digital Signature Certificate?
🔹 Businesses & Corporates – For MCA (Ministry of Corporate Affairs) filings, e-Tenders, and GST filings.
🔹 Importers & Exporters – Required for DGFT IEC applications and customs filings.
🔹 Individuals & Professionals – Used by Chartered Accountants, Company Secretaries, Directors, and Lawyers.
🔹 Government Contractors & Suppliers – Essential for e-Procurement and e-Tender submissions.
Need a Digital Signature Certificate? Contact Pragati Exim Solution!
At Pragati Exim Solution, we provide fast and hassle-free Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) services for:
✔ Class 3 DSC for GST, MCA, and Income Tax
✔ DGFT DSC for Importers & Exporters
✔ USB Token Setup & Technical Support
✔ Renewal & Reissue of Expired DSCs
📞 Get your DSC today! Contact us for expert assistance.
- 01 Can a DSC be shared or used by multiple people?
- No, a DSC is unique to an individual or company and should not be shared.
- 02 Is it mandatory to verify identity before obtaining a DSC?
- Yes, identity verification (through video KYC or Aadhaar e-KYC) is required.
- 03 What is a USB Token for DSC?
- A USB Token is a secure hardware device where the DSC is stored for authentication.
- 04 How do I use a DSC?
- A DSC must be downloaded & installed on a computer or used via USB Token (e-Token).
- 05 Can a DSC be renewed?
- Yes, a DSC can be renewed before its expiration through an authorized Certifying Authority (CA).
- 06 How long is a DSC valid?
- A DSC is typically valid for 1, 2, or 3 years, depending on the selected tenure.
- 07 Which DSC is needed for DGFT & IEC applications?
- DGFT DSC is required for import-export-related filings.
- 08 Which DSC is required for GST, Income Tax, and MCA filings?
- Class 3 DSC is required for GST returns, Income Tax filings, and MCA compliance.
- 09 Is DSC legally valid in India?
- Yes, DSCs are legally recognized under the Information Technology Act, 2000.
- 10 What is a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)?
- A DSC is an electronic signature used for secure and legally valid online transactions.
- 11 How can Pragati Exim Solution assist with DSC procurement?
- We provide hassle-free DSC registration, renewal, and USB Token setup for businesses and
- 12 Can I apply for DSC online?
- Yes, you can apply online through Certifying Authorities like eMudhra, Sify, and Capricorn.
- 13 Is DSC required for e-Tenders & Government Contracts?
- Yes, Class 3 DSC is mandatory for all e-Tender and government procurement portals.
- 14 What happens if my DSC is lost or corrupted?
- You need to reapply for a new DSC if the old one is lost or damaged.
- 15 Can DSC be used on multiple devices?
- Yes, but it must be inserted into the computer via a USB Token.