StartupGrants India

Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)

Class 3 DSC on USB token — mandatory for MCA, GST, and IT filings

Validity: 2 years from issue date (Class 3 DSC); renewal required thereafterHandled by verified compliance experts. 100% online process.

The questions founders ask most about digital signature certificate (dsc), answered plainly. If something here doesn't cover your situation, our team will walk you through it before you commit.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Class 2 and Class 3 DSC?

Class 2 DSC was discontinued in January 2021. All new DSCs issued are Class 3, which requires stricter identity verification (Aadhaar OTP or video call) and is valid for signing, authentication, and encryption.

How long is a DSC valid?

DSCs are issued with a validity of 1 year or 2 years. After expiry, the certificate must be renewed. The USB token can typically be reused for renewal.

Can I use one DSC for multiple portals?

Yes. A single DSC can be used across MCA21, GSTN, Income Tax e-filing, e-procurement (GeM, CPPP), and other government portals — as long as the same PAN is registered on all portals.

What happens if I lose my DSC token?

Report the loss immediately to the Certifying Authority to revoke the certificate. A new DSC must be issued on a new token. This is a security measure to prevent misuse.

Is Aadhaar eSign the same as a DSC?

No. Aadhaar eSign is a one-time electronic signature for specific transactions. A DSC is a persistent certificate stored on a USB token used for regular filings.

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