What is a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)?
With rapid digitization, businesses are compelled to deal with voluminous data, thus making it imperative to facilitate the use of digital signature certificates. The term electronic signature is sometimes used interchangeably with DSC (digital signature certificates) but there is an underlying difference between both.
A DSC is the electronic equivalent of a conventional wet signature while a simple online digital signature can be considered an electronic signature. But how do you create digital signatures online and how DSC serves as an online digital signature for users and businesses?
Digital Signature Certificates (DSC) are used to sign documents digitally, authenticate identity, and access information or services. In simpler terms, DSC is like an identity card issued by a third party called Certifying Authority (CA), like eMudhra. It uses a Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) to ensure encryption and authentication of the user’s identity.
What are the applications of DSC (Digital Signature Certificate)?
DSCs are essentially a PKI encrypted proof of identity; A DSC can be used for signing the following:
- e-Tendering
- Online Signature
- EPFO filing
- Patent and Trademark e-filing
- MCA e-filing
- Income Tax e-filing
- LLP registration
- Customs e-filing
- e-Procurement
- e-Bidding
- e-Auction
- GST Application filing
Documents Required to Apply for a Digital Signature Certificate Online
CA (certifying authority) can issue a Digital Signature Certificate only after the applicant qualifies for the following prerequisites:
- Applicant must submit a duly filled online application form and personal details to the certifying authority
- Applicant must complete the eKYC process on eMudhra Digital Website
Applicants can simply buy a Digital Signature Certificate and perform the 3-step eKYC process to procure their DSC. The process is completely paperless and online.
How to Apply for a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)?
Steps to apply for a Digital Signature Certificate:
An applicant must follow these steps to apply for a digital signature certificate online through eMudhra:
Step 1. Log into www.emudhradigital.com
Step 2. Select the type and validity of the DSC you want to purchase
Step 3. Fill in the requested credentials like name, address, GST number (if applicable), etc.
Step 4. Complete the transaction by paying online and proceed for online eKYC
Step 5. Complete online eKYC for identity verification
Step 6. Download the DSC
How to Apply for Digital Signature Certificate Online from eMudhra: Video Guide
How eMudhra Helps you Easily Procure DSC?
eMudhra Limited is a Certifying Authority licensed by the Controller of Certifying Authorities and caters to all kinds of subscribers who use Digital Certificates for MCA (ROC), GST, Income Tax, Tenders, Foreign Trade, Banking, Railways, and many more! eMudhra offers paperless steps to issue Class-3 Digital Signature for individuals and organizations. The DSC is available with a validity period of 1 year, 2 years, or 3 years. Class 3 DSC is now mandated to be used for all types of transactions in India.
Also Read:
1. What is the difference between a Digital Signature and a Digital Signature Certificate?
2. What is the difference between a digital signature and an electronic signature?
3. What are the benefits of Digital Signature?
4. How to renew the Digital Signature?
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who can apply for a Digital Signature Certificate?
A digital signature certificate can be requested by an individual or a business as well as large enterprises.
2. Where can I utilize a Digital Signature Certificate?
The digital signature certificate is used to create signatures online. The DSC is also used for MCA (ROC), GST, income tax, tenders, foreign trade, and banking.
3. How long does it take to get a digital signature certificate in India?
Procuring DSC these days is a completely paperless and online process. If you apply for a Class 3 Digital Signature Certificate from eMudhra, you will get your DSC within 30 minutes.
4. What is the validity of a Digital Signature Certificate?
The DSC validity varies, we can issue a DSC with a validity of 1 to 3 years.
5. Can I hold multiple Digital Signature Certificates?
Yes, you can hold multiple certificates. Multiple DSCs can be used for personal and organizational purposes.
6. Can I renew my Digital Signature Certificate?
Yes, you can renew your digital signature certificate online.
7. Who issues a digital signature certificate?
The DSC (digital signature certificate) is issued by a CA (certifying authority). eMudhra issues class 3 Digital Signature Certificates for organizations and individuals.