What is Digital Signature Certificate? | Capricorn DSC

You've been signing papers the same way for years… print, sign, scan, upload… repeat. It's slow, stressful, and honestly, a bit outdated. Now imagine handling all your official work online with a single digital key—secure, legal, and accepted by the government.

That's what a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) actually does. It's your digital identity for the online world, letting you sign documents, forms, and much more without ever touching a pen or printer.

The truth is...the government requires it, businesses can't function without it, and soon, you won't be able to work without it. Therefore, it's better to secure YOUR Digital signature tool before it's too late!

Want to buy Digital Signature Certificate online? Get Capricorn DSC right now and sign all your forms and agreements digitally.

What is Digital Signature Certificate?

A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is essentially your digital identity in the online world. Just like you have an ID card or passport to prove who you are in the physical world, a DSC proves your identity electronically. It allows you to sign documents, submit forms, and authenticate online transactions in a way that is secure, legally valid, and verifiable.

It is issued by a licensed Certifying Authority in your name. Once you obtain it, you can use your DSC across all official portals that require it. Many government and corporate portals—such as the Income Tax Department, MCA, GST portal, DGFT, etc., have mandated Digital Signature Certificate registration for filing forms and secure online transactions.

Types of Digital Signature Certificates

Digital Signature Certificate online is categorized based on different basis. Understanding all these types will help you choose just the right DSC digital signature for you

Based on class

Digital Signature Certificates are classified as follows:

Class 1 DSC: This was the basic level. It validates only the user's name and email address. It was mainly used for low-risk applications. However, it provided minimal security and limited verification, so it is no longer in use today.

Class 2 DSC: Previously used for applications like filing income tax returns or GST, Class 2 certificates validated the user against government databases such as PAN or Aadhaar. While more secure than Class 1, it still did not provide sufficient security for high-value transactions and has therefore been discontinued.

Class 3 DSC: Class 3 is the current standard that offers the highest level of security and verification. It is mandatory for tasks like e-tendering, MCA filings, GST filings, and other corporate or government-related transactions. Class 3 ensures proper authentication, making it the only class widely used today.

Based on user type

Digital Signature Certificates are also classified based on who is using them:

Individual DSC: For personal use, such as filing ITR, GST, or signing documents digitally.

Organization DSC: Issued in the name of a company or organization, used by authorized signatories for corporate filings and official transactions.

Foreign National DSC: For non-residents or foreign directors who need to sign Indian official documents.

IET (DGFT) DSC: Special DSCs issued for import-export professionals and businesses, primarily for signing documents on the DGFT portal.

Document Signer Certificate (DSC): Used for bulk or automated document signing by companies or government bodies.

Based on usage

DSCs can be issued for different purposes:

Signing only: Used solely to authenticate documents.

Encryption only: Ensures secure and confidential communication.

Both signing and encryption: Provides full security for sensitive documents and communications.

Uses & Applications of DSC signature

A Digital Signature Online is used across a wide range of platforms, such as:

1. Filing Income Tax Returns (ITR)

DSC digital signature is used by individuals and businesses to digitally sign income tax returns.

2. MCA (Ministry of Corporate Affairs) Filings

Companies and LLPs are required to file annual returns, incorporation documents, and compliance forms on the MCA portal using a DSC.

3. GST Filings

DSC signature is used to sign GST returns, registrations, and other filings.

4. e-Tendering & e-Procurement

DSC is mandatory for bidding on government tenders.

5. Import-Export Documentation (DGFT Portal)

IET (DGFT) DSC is used by exporters and importers to sign applications, licenses, and shipping documents securely.

6. Signing Legal & Financial Documents

DSC signature allows the signing of contracts, agreements, MOUs, and other legal documents digitally.

7. Banks

Some banks and financial institutions accept DSC for loan applications, account opening, and secure transactions.

Advantages of Using DSC Digital Signature

1. Legally Recognized: DSC is recognized under the Information Technology Act, 2000.

2. Ensures Security & Authenticity: Provides encryption and authentication, making sure that the signer's identity is verified. Also, prevents tampering or unauthorized changes to your documents.

3. Saves Time & Effort: Complete filings online in minutes instead of days.

4. Mandatory Compliance: Required for filings on portals like MCA, Income Tax, GST, etc, to meet all government and corporate compliance requirements.

5. Multi-Platform Usability: A single DSC can be used across multiple official portals.

Digital Signature Certificate Price

So many users search for “Digital signature certificate online free” or “Digital signature free” as they are unable to figure out the Digital Signature Certificate price.

Well, you first need to know the key factors that influence its price. It will help you to understand the cost of a Digital Signature Certificate in India

Factors Affecting Digital Signature Certificate Price

Type of DSC: Individual, Organization, Foreign National, or IET (DGFT) DSCs have different pricing.

Class of DSC: Class 3 DSCs, which are mandatory for most filings, are priced higher due to advanced security and verification.

Validity Period: DSCs are available for 1 year, 2 years, or 3 years. Longer validity usually comes at a slightly higher cost upfront, but saves the hassle of renewal.

Provider: Licensed Certifying Authorities (CAs) may have different pricing, but the government-regulated rates ensure transparency.

How to Apply for Digital Signature Online?

Getting a Digital Signature Certificate is simple and can be done completely online. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to get digital signature:

1. Select a Reliable DSC Provider

Choose a government-licensed Certifying Authority like Capricorn CA.

2. Choose Validity & Type

Pick the DSC type (Individual, Organization, IET/DGFT) and validity (1, 2, or 3 years). Add a USB token if required.

3. Verify Mobile Number

Enter your mobile number and complete OTP verification.

4. Fill KYC Form

Provide your personal, business, and contact details accurately.

5. Verify Email ID

Confirm your email address via OTP or verification link.

6. Upload Documents

Upload scanned copies of the necessary documents, etc. Also, submit the company-related proof.

7. Complete Video Verification

Record a short video or live verification as per the CA's process.

8. Submit Form

Review your application and submit it online.

9. Make Payment & Processing

Pay the applicable DSC fee based on type and validity. Capricorn CA processes your request.

10. eSign DSC Form

Digitally sign the DSC application form for final approval.

11. Digital signature certificate download & install DSC

Once approved, your DSC will be issued in a USB Token. Install it on your system and start signing documents securely.

After completing the Digital Signature Certificate download, you are completely ready to use it! Just go to the site, do the Digital Signature Certificate registration, and use it as required.

Validity and Renewal of Digital Signature Certificate

A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) doesn't last forever. It comes with a fixed validity period after which it must be renewed.

Validity of DSC

- DSCs are generally issued for 1 year, 2 years, or 3 years.

- The validity depends on what you choose while applying.

- After expiry, the DSC cannot be used for signing or authentication until it is renewed.

Renewal of Digital Signature Certificate Online

Uninterrupted Compliance:[/B] Renew on time to avoid delays in filing ITR, GST, MCA forms, or DGFT applications.

Security: Renewal ensures your DSC is up to date with the latest encryption and authentication standards.

Cost-Effective: Renewing before expiry may cost less than applying for a fresh DSC.

Trusted Digital Signature Provider in India — Capricorn CA

It is very important to have your DSC from a government-certified and reliable Certifying Authority.
Your DSC is your digital identity. So, when it comes to buying Digital Signature Certificate, you should never compromise.

Why Choose Capricorn CA as YOUR DSC Provider?

1. Government Licensed CA

Authorized by the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA), Government of India, ensuring every DSC issued is legally valid.

2. Wide Range of DSCs

From Individual and Organization DSCs to Foreign National and IET (DGFT) DSCs—Capricorn CA offers solutions for every need.

3. PAN India Presence

A nationwide network ensures quick service, easy access, and reliable customer support.

4. Affordable Pricing

Transparent rates with no hidden cost.

5. Fast & Hassle-Free Online Process

100% digital application with OTP, Video KYC, and eSign verification for a smooth experience.

6. Full Security

Every DSC is issued with a secure USB token, protecting your digital identity from misuse.

Are you still someone who does not have a DSC in 2025? You should wait for even a second Buy Digital Signature Certificate online from Capricorn CA.

Conclusion

Well, now you know each and every detail about a Digital Signature certificate. From what is a DSC, DSC types, uses, advantages, and pricing, to how you can apply, renew, and use it across different government portals. No need to search for a Digital Signature Certificate PDF for its information.

Whether you are filing your Income Tax Returns, submitting MCA or GST forms, or signing documents and forms, a Digital signature tool is mandatory.

Instead of relying on outdated manual paperwork, DSCs allow you to sign, authenticate, and submit documents online within minutes.

And when it comes to choosing a reliable Digital Signature provider, Capricorn CA stands out! Why? Because of government authorization, PAN India presence, fast online process, and transparent pricing. So you don't have to go around searching for “Digital signature certificate online free” or “Digital signature free” as Capricorn offers just the best.