Types of Digital Signature Certificates in India | Class 1, 2 & 3 DSC
🖊️ Types of Digital Signature Certificates (DSC): A Complete Guide
In today’s fast-paced digital world, businesses and professionals are required to sign documents, file returns, and submit applications online. For this reason, Digital Signature Certificates (DSCs) have become a legal and secure method to authenticate identity in electronic transactions.
To make things simpler, let’s break down the types of DSCs, their purpose, and the current regulatory scenario.
🔐 What is a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)?
A DSC is a secure digital key issued by a Certifying Authority (CA) to validate the identity of the certificate holder. It is commonly used in online transactions, e-filings, and government portals to ensure confidentiality and authenticity.
📚 Types of Digital Signature Certificates
1️⃣ Class 1 DSC (Discontinued)
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Usage: Used for securing personal email communication.
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Verification: Validates name and email against a database.
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Status: No longer accepted for any official use.
2️⃣ Class 2 DSC (Phased Out in 2021)
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Usage: Previously used for MCA filings, Income Tax, GST, etc.
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Verification: Involved verifying identity and address through official documents.
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Status: Discontinued to enhance digital security standards.
3️⃣ Class 3 DSC (Currently Active and Mandatory)
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Usage: Now mandatory for:
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e-Tendering & e-Procurement
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GST, MCA21, and Income Tax e-filing
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Trademark & Patent filings
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Import Export Code (IEC) applications
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Verification: Requires strict identity verification via in-person or video verification, ensuring the highest level of digital trust.
✅ Class 3 DSC is the only valid and accepted certificate as per current government regulations.
📊 Summary Table
| Type | Primary Use Cases | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Class 1 | Email encryption | ❌ Discontinued |
| Class 2 | Government filings (past usage) | ❌ Phased Out |
| Class 3 | All official, legal, and e-compliance | ✅ Mandatory |
🤔 Why Has Class 3 DSC Become Mandatory?
To reduce the risk of cyber fraud and enhance trust in digital transactions, the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA) has mandated Class 3 DSC for all secure online processes. With stronger identity checks, Class 3 DSC ensures that only verified individuals or entities can access or sign critical documents.
✅ Conclusion: Let Diligen Handle It for You!
Navigating the DSC process can be overwhelming, especially with changing regulations and verification requirements. That’s where we come in.
Diligen Professional Solutions Pvt. Ltd. specializes in helping individuals, startups, and businesses obtain and manage their Class 3 Digital Signature Certificates smoothly and efficiently.
From choosing the right type to completing verification and application, our experts take care of everything — so you can focus on your core business.
📞 Need a Class 3 DSC? Contact Diligen today and get started hassle-free!
