FAQ on Digital Signature Certificate

We've all moved to the digital world — so why shouldn't our signatures follow?

A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) lets you sign documents electronically with the same trust and authority as a pen-and-paper signature. It's quick, secure, and legally recognized under the Information Technology Act, 2000.

But understanding DSCs isn't always easy. You search for Digital Signature Certificate online, scroll through endless FAQ on digital signature certificate PDFs and guides, yet so many questions remain unanswered.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Digital Signature Certificate

1. What is a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)?

A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is an electronic form of a signature that verifies your identity online. It allows you to sign digital documents securely and ensures the data hasn't been tampered with.

2. Why is DSC required?

A DSC is required to prove the authenticity of documents submitted online. It's used for income tax filings, GST, MCA filings, e-tenders, and other official submissions where verified identity is needed.

3. Who can apply for a DSC?

Any individual, organization, or authorized representative can apply for a DSC in India. Professionals like CA, CS, and directors commonly use it for compliance and e-filing purposes.

4. Who is eligible for a Digital Signature Certificate?

Indian citizens, foreign nationals, and organizations registered in India are all eligible to get a DSC, as long as they provide valid identity and address proof.

5. What are the types of DSC?

The types of DSC can be classified on different bases:

1. Class: Class 1 DSC, Class 2 DSC, Class 3 DSC

2. Usage: Sign, Encrypt, and a combination of both Sign and Encrypt

3: Purpose: Individual DSC, Organisation DSC, DGFT DSC, etc.

6. How can I apply for a DSC online?

Here's a quick step-by-step guide on how to get your Digital Signature Certificate online:

1. Visit the Capricorn CA Website

2. Choose the Type of DSC (Individual, Organization, DGFT, etc.)

3. Set Your Preferences – class, validity, token, and support level

4. Verify Your Mobile Number with an OTP

5. Fill Out the eKYC Form with accurate details

6. Verify Your Email Address through the confirmation link

7. Upload Required Documents – ID, address, or business proof

8. Complete Video Verification for identity confirmation

9. Review and Submit Your Application

10. Await Approval from the Certifying Authority

11. Make Secure Online Payment

12. eSign the Agreement digitally

13. Set Up the USB Token for secure storage

14. Download Your Digital Signature Certificate

7. What documents are needed to get a DSC?

You'll need:

- Proof of Identity (like PAN, Aadhaar) if applying as an individual.

- ID proof, Certificate of Incorporation / Registration Proof, Authorization Letter from the organization if applying as an organization.

8. How long is a DSC valid for?

A DSC is usually valid for 1, 2, or 3 years from the date of issue. After expiry, it must be renewed to continue using it.

9. Who issues DSCs in India?

DSCs in India are issued by licensed Certifying Authorities (CAs) regulated by the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA). One of the Digital Signature providers in India is Capricorn CA.

10. What are the rules regarding a licence to issue a Digital Signature Certificate?

Only Certifying Authorities approved by the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA) under the IT Act, 2000, can issue DSCs. They must follow strict verification and encryption standards.

11. Can DSC be downloaded twice?

No, once a DSC is downloaded onto a USB token or device, it cannot be downloaded again for security reasons. If lost, a new DSC must be issued.

12. What documents cannot be digitally signed?

The following cannot be digitally signed:

- Wills and testamentary documents

- Power of Attorney papers

- Property sale deeds or contracts related to real estate transfer

- Negotiable instruments such as cheques, promissory notes, and bills of exchange.

13. How much does a CA charge for DSC?

Charges may vary depending on the type, validity period, class, and the DSC provider that your are going for.

14. How much is a 2-year DSC charge?

A 2-year Class 3 DSC usually costs somewhere between a 1-year and 3-year DSC, depending on the provider and type of DSC (Individual DSC, Organisation DSC, etc).

15. Can I have two digital signatures?

Yes, you can have multiple DSCs. For example, one for personal use and another for organizational or professional work.

16. Can I use one DSC for multiple portals?

Yes, the same DSC can be used across different government portals such as Income Tax, MCA, and GST, as long as the name and details match.

17. What's the difference between an Individual DSC and an Organization DSC?

An Individual DSC is issued in your name for personal or professional use.

An Organization DSC is linked to a company and used by authorized signatories to sign on the company's behalf.
Know the difference in detail and find out which one is the most suitable for you. CLICK HERE!

18. How do I know if my DSC is failing?

Here are some clear signs your DSC might be failing:

Error while signing: You may see messages like “Certificate not found,” “Invalid certificate,” or “No token detected.”

Expired certificate: If your DSC validity period is over, it will stop working.

Token not detected: Sometimes, your system doesn't recognize the USB token if the driver isn't installed or the port is faulty.

Browser or Java errors: Certain websites may reject the DSC if browser settings or Java configurations aren't correct.

19. How to check if my DSC is working properly?

Plug in your USB token, open the CA-provided software, and verify if the certificate details appear correctly.

20. What should I do if my DSC is rejected or not working?

If your DSC application was rejected:

Check for mismatched details — your name, PAN, and Aadhaar details must match exactly.

Re-upload clear documents — unclear photos or blurry ID proofs can cause rejection.

Contact your Certifying Authority (CA) — they can guide you on reapplying with the correct details.

If your DSC has stopped working:

Check the expiry date[/B] — renew it if expired.

Reinstall token drivers — uninstall old drivers and install the latest version from your CA's website.

Try a different USB port or system — sometimes the issue is with the hardware.

Contact customer support — Capricorn CA offers dedicated DSC support to help you reactivate or reissue your certificate quickly.

21. What is a Type 3 Digital Signature?

A Type 3 Digital Signature (commonly known as Class 3 DSC) is the highest level of digital signature certificate issued in India. It offers the strongest form of identity verification and data security.

Before a Class 3 DSC is issued, the applicant's identity is verified through in-person or video verification, ensuring that the signer is genuine and authorized.

Where it's used:

e-Tenders and e-Procurement portals

MCA (Ministry of Corporate Affairs) filings

GST and Income Tax e-filing

Patent and Trademark registrations

DGFT transactions for import/export

22. What is the Supreme Court decision on digital signatures?

The Supreme Court of India has upheld that digital signatures are legally valid and enforceable under the Information Technology Act, 2000.

The Court confirmed that a properly issued DSC carries the same legal weight as a handwritten signature, as long as it meets the requirements of authenticity and integrity.

23. Can a document be digitally signed twice?

Yes, a document can be digitally signed by multiple signers, or even by the same person more than once, if required.

Each digital signature is added as a separate layer of authentication. The order of signatures is recorded, and any modification after signing will invalidate the earlier signatures.

24. Which device is used for digital signature?

A USB crypto token (also called a DSC token) is the physical device used to store and apply your digital signature.

It securely contains your private key and certificate, ensuring no one else can use your DSC without access to the token and PIN.

25. How to get Digital Signature Certificate for Income tax free?

Wondering how to get Digital Signature Certificate for Income tax free?

You cannot get a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) completely free for income tax purposes because it is issued only by licensed Certifying Authorities (CAs) approved by the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA), Government of India, and they charge a small verification and issuance fee.

However, with Capricorn CA, you can get DSC for affordable prices.

26. How long does EPFO Digital Signature approval take?

Once you've registered your Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) on the EPFO (Employees' Provident Fund Organisation) portal, it usually takes 24 to 48 hours for approval.

27. What is DGFT DSC Utility – Download?

DGFT DSC Utility – Download refers to installing the DGFT Digital Signature Utility, which is an essential step to make your Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) work properly on the DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade) portal.

Without it, your DSC won't be recognized or may show errors when you try to log in, register, or sign documents.
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Conclusion

Just applying for a Digital Signature Certificate is not enough. Understanding how it works, where to use it, and how to apply or troubleshoot common issues can save you time and avoid rejections.

Now you don't need to search for “FAQ on Digital Signature Certificate PDF” or “FAQ on digital signature certificate online”. Why? Because this complete FAQ guide on Digital Signature Certificate online will clear all your doubts.