Class 3 Digital Signature Certificate (DSC): The Complete Guide for 2026
Everything you need to know about Class 3 Digital Signature Certificates in India — types, eligibility, how to apply, e-KYC process, pricing, USB tokens, and common FAQs. Written by DgSignz, a CCA-licensed integrated partner since 2006.
What Is a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)?
A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is a digitally signed electronic document that authenticates the identity of a person or organization in the digital world. Think of it as the electronic equivalent of a handwritten signature or an official stamp — but with far greater legal validity and security.
In India, DSCs are governed by the Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000and issued by licensed integrated partners under the oversight of the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA).
Unlike a simple digital signature (which can be as basic as typing your name), a DSC uses cryptographic technology — a pair of keys (public and private) — to ensure the document cannot be tampered with after signing.
DSC Classes Explained: Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3
Digital Signature Certificates in India are classified into three classes based on the level of security and verification required:
| Feature | Class 1 | Class 2 | Class 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Security Level | Basic | Medium | Highest ✓ |
| Verification | Email/Self-declaration | Manual document verification | Video e-KYC + Aadhaar OTP ✓ |
| Usage | Basic email, non-legal | Legacy filing (now largely discontinued) | All government portals, legal filing ✓ |
| Government Portals | ❌ Not accepted | ❌ Largely discontinued | ✅ Accepted everywhere ✓ |
| USB Token | Software-based only | Optional | FIPS 140-2 USB token recommended ✓ |
Types of Class 3 Digital Signature Certificates
Class 3 DSCs are further categorized based on the type of signing and the signatory. Here are the six main types:
1. Class 3 Individual DSC
Used by individuals — salaried employees, chartered accountants, consultants, self-employed professionals, and company directors for personal digital signing tasks.
Commonly used for:
- Filing Income Tax Returns (ITR) on the Income Tax portal
- GST registration and return filing (GSTR-1, GSTR-3B)
- MCA-21 forms and director KYC
- EPFO employer and employee returns
- e-Procurement and GeM portal participation
- ICEGATE customs and trade portal signing
2. Class 3 Organisation DSC
Used by companies, LLPs, firms, and trusts. The certificate carries the organization's name and is legally binding on the entity.
Commonly used for:
- ROC filings (MCA-21 forms)
- Company GST registration and filings
- Director identification and KYC
- Signing tenders and government contracts
- Company agreements and legal documents
3. DGFT DSC (Import-Export)
A specialized Class 3 DSC specifically for the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) portal. Not interchangeable with regular DSC.
Commonly used for:
- IEC (Import Export Code) application and modification
- EPCG license applications
- DGFT portal filings and e-commerce exports
4. Combo DSC (Sign + Encrypt)
A single certificate that combines both signing and encryption capabilities. Used where both functionalities are required simultaneously.
Most government portals only require signing capability. Check your portal requirements before purchasing.
5. Document Signer DSC
Designed for automated, bulk digital signing of PDF documents — invoices, agreements, certificates, and legal contracts.
Commonly used by:
- Chartered accountant firms (signing audit reports)
- Legal departments (bulk contract signing)
- Enterprises (automated invoice signing)
- HR departments (joining letters, offer letters)
6. Foreign / NRI Class 3 DSC
For NRIs, OCI holders, and foreign nationals who need to sign Indian legal documents without visiting India.
Commonly used for:
- Foreign directors of Indian companies
- NRIs selling property in India
- Foreign investors in Indian LLPs or companies
Who Needs a Class 3 DSC?
If you interact with any government portal for business or professional compliance, a Class 3 DSC is not optional — it's mandatory. Here's who specifically needs one:
🏢 Company Directors
Mandatory for MCA-21 filings, director KYC, DIN activation, and company incorporation.
📊 Chartered Accountants
Required for digitally signing audit reports, tax returns, and GST filings on behalf of clients.
💼 Company Secretaries
For filing e-forms with MCA and regulatory compliance on behalf of companies.
👔 Salaried Professionals
For e-filing Income Tax Returns when claiming detailed deductions or filing from multiple Form 16s.
How to Apply for a Class 3 DSC — Step by Step
Getting a Class 3 DSC has never been easier. The entire process is paperless, online, and can be completed in under 30 minutes from the comfort of your desk.
1. Choose Your DSC Type
Identify whether you need Individual or Organisation DSC based on how you will use it.
2. Select a Verified Issuer
Choose from verified issuers like eMudhra, Capricorn, VSign, PantaSign, or IDSign. All are legally equivalent.
3. Complete Aadhaar e-KYC
Submit Aadhaar (linked to mobile) and PAN card details. Authenticate via OTP verification instantly.
4. Video Verification
Complete a quick 30-second video verification via a secure link sent to your mobile.
Class 3 DSC Pricing in India — 2026
Pricing is based on the validity period and whether you add a USB token:
| Issuer Brand | 1 Year | 2 Years ★ | 3 Years |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capricorn | ₹599 | ₹849 | ₹1,199 |
| eMudhra | ₹599 | ₹849 | ₹1,199 |
| VSign | ₹549 | ₹799 | ₹1,149 |