What is a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)?

Digital Signature Certificates are the digital equivalent (in electronic format) of physical or paper certificates. Some examples of physical certificates are driving licenses, passports or membership cards etc. Certificates serve as a proof of identity of an individual for a certain purpose; e.g. - a driving license identifies someone who can legally drive in a particular country. In the same way, a digital certificate can be presented electronically to prove your identity, to access information or services on the internet or to sign certain documents digitally.

Why is the Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) required?

As physical documents are signed manually, electronic documents, for example, e-forms are required to be signed digitally using a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) becomes legally valid.

Who issues the Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)?

A digital signature is issued by any licensed certifying authority, also called CA. Certifying Authority means a person who has been granted a license to issue a digital signature certificate under Section 24 of the Indian IT- Act 2000.

What type of Digital Signature Certificate is required for e-signing and Authentication on the e-tendering portal?

An organization needs Class 3 Digital Signature Certificate if it is looking forward to applying for any government e-tender. The certificate ought to be registered within the name of a representative who is allowed to submit online offers for e- tendering applications.

What could be the cost of getting a Digital Signature Certificate?

The cost of getting a digital signature certificate may vary as there are many authorities issuing DSCs and their charges may differ. The approximate cost may vary between 2000 INR to 3000 INR depending on the number of years for which it is issued.

Time is taken by CAs to issue a DSC?

The time taken by certifying authorities to issue a DSC may vary from 3 to 7 days.

What is the validity of a Digital Signature Certificate?

Digital Signature Certificate is issued with a validity of one or two years.

Do companies need to get a Digital Signature Certificate in its own name for e-tendering?

Digital Signature Certificate is not required by Companies but by individuals. For example, the Director or the Authorised signatory signing on behalf of the Company requires a Digital Signature Certificate.