How to Register DSC on GST Portal?

Still struggling to register your Digital Signature Certificate on the GST Portal? Don't worry — you're not alone!
Every GST-registered business needs a valid digital signature to securely sign and submit returns online. But the process can seem confusing the first time you do it.

Whether you're a company director, accountant, or authorized signatory, this article will help you link your DSC to GST account in just a few minutes. This comprehensive guide explains the complete process of registering a digital signature on the GST Portal, outlines all technical prerequisites, and answers common questions faced by taxpayers during registration.

Prerequisites to Register DSC on GST Portal

Before you begin the registration process, make sure you meet the following requirements:

Active GST Account

- You must have a valid login ID and password for the GST Portal.

Valid DSC (Digital Signature Certificate)

- The DSC should be Class 3 (as per the latest CCA guidelines).

- It must be issued by a licensed Certifying Authority (CA) such as Capricorn CA.

USB Token Installed

- Plug in your USB token containing the DSC to your computer.

- Make sure the DSC token driver (e.g., ePass, WatchData, ProxKey, etc.) is properly installed.

Java Utility Installed

- The DSC utility tool must be downloaded and running on your computer to enable the digital signing process.

Compatible Browser

- Use updated versions of Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Internet Explorer.

- Add the GST portal to the list of trusted sites if needed.

Steps to Register DSC in the GST Portal

Follow these simple steps to register your DSC successfully:

Step 1: Visit the GST Portal

Go to https://www.gst.gov.in and log in using your valid credentials.

Step 2: Navigate to the DSC Section

On the Dashboard, go to: My Profile → Register/Update DSC

Step 3: Select Authorized Signatory

Choose the Authorized Signatory from the dropdown list. (This person's PAN should match the PAN used in the DSC.)

Step 4: Connect Your DSC Token

Insert your USB Token containing the DSC.

Ensure that the DSC utility tool is running in the background.

Step 5: Click on “Proceed”

Select your certificate when prompted and click Sign.

The system will authenticate your DSC and confirm successful registration.

Final Thoughts

Registering your Digital Signature (DSC) on the GST Portal ensures secure, paperless, and legally valid transactions. Once registered, you can file returns, submit applications, and authenticate forms digitally, saving both time and effort. If you don't have a DSC yet, you can get a Capricorn DSC, which is CCA-approved, easy to install, and GST-compatible.

FAQs

Q1. Who can register DSC on the GST portal?

Answer: Any Authorized Signatory with a valid DSC mapped to their PAN in the GST registration can register it.

Q2. What type of DSC is required for GST filing?

Answer: You must use a Class 3 DSC issued by a licensed Certifying Authority such as Capricorn CA.

Q3. What should I do if the GST portal doesn't detect my DSC?

Ensure that the DSC utility tool is running and that your DSC drivers are installed correctly. Restart your browser and try again.

Q4. Can I register multiple DSCs under one GSTIN?

Answer: No. Only one DSC per Authorized Signatory can be registered at a time. However, multiple signatories can have separate DSCs registered.

Q5. Is DSC mandatory for GST filing?

Answer: For Companies and LLPs, yes… DSC is mandatory. For other taxpayers, EVC (Electronic Verification Code) can also be used.