The cost of a DSC depends on the certificate type, validity period and whether a USB cryptographic token is required.

Different DSC plans are available for individuals, organizations, tendering, e-filing, DGFT and other professional requirements.

Once the validity period of a Digital Signature Certificate expires, it can no longer be used for signing documents or accessing services that require a valid DSC.

You can apply for renewal or obtain a new certificate by completing the required verification process.

A DSC uses cryptographic keys to securely sign electronic documents. The private key is used to create the signature, while the corresponding public key helps verify it.

The certificate also contains information that helps establish the identity of the certificate holder and the issuing authority.

Digital Signature Certificates are commonly used for various online government and business activities.

• Income Tax e-Filing
• MCA / ROC e-Filing
• e-Tendering and e-Procurement
• DGFT and Import-Export related services
• Trademark and Patent e-Filing
• Online government applications

A Digital Signature is the electronic signature applied to a document, whereas a Digital Signature Certificate is the digital identity certificate used to create and verify that signature.

A Registration Authority assists with the application and verification process for Digital Signature Certificates. The required applicant information and documents are checked according to the applicable process before certificate issuance.

A Digital Signature Certificate is associated with the certificate holder's verified identity. Certificates and their cryptographic keys are intended for the specific subscriber to whom they are issued.

Depending on the intended use, different DSC options are available for individuals, organizations, signing, encryption, tendering and import-export requirements.

• Class 3 Individual DSC
• Class 3 Organization DSC
• Signing DSC
• Signing & Encryption Combo DSC
• DGFT DSC

A USB cryptographic eToken is a secure hardware device designed to store digital certificates and cryptographic keys.

It helps protect the private key and allows the certificate holder to use the DSC on compatible computers without storing the private key directly on the computer.

• Secure private-key storage
• Portable and easy to use
• Helps protect the DSC from unauthorized copying
• Suitable for professional digital signing

DSC renewal generally requires completion of the applicable identity verification and documentation process. Once verification is successfully completed, a renewed certificate can be issued according to the selected validity period.

Yes. Depending on the certificate type and applicable verification method, DSC application and verification can be completed through available online processes.