This guide will explain what a Class 3 Digital Signature is, why it is needed, and most importantly, how to apply for a Class 3 Digital Signature in India in simple, easy-to-follow language.
What is a Class 3 Digital Signature?
A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is an electronic form of a signature. It is used to sign online documents securely and legally. The government of India, through the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA), allows licensed Certifying Authorities (CAs) to issue digital signatures. There are different classes of Digital Signatures, such as Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3.
Among these, Class 3 DSC is the most secure type. It is used for activities that require a high level of safety and identity verification. Class 3 DSC ensures that the person who is signing the documents online is genuine and authorized.
Where is Class 3 Digital Signature Used?
Class 3 DSC is needed for various purposes in India, especially in government and business activities. Some common uses are:
- e-Tendering
- e-Procurement
- e-Bidding
- e-Auction
- MCA (Ministry of Corporate Affairs) filings
- Income Tax e-Filing
- GST Registration and Filing
- Signing PDF documents digitally
- Trademark and Patent filings
If you are applying for tenders on government portals like GeM (Government e-Marketplace), eProcurement portals, or other bidding systems, a Class 3 DSC is compulsory.
Types of Class 3 Digital Signature Certificates
There are mainly two types of Class 3 DSC based on usage:
- Class 3 Digital Signature for Individual
- Issued in the name of a person.
- Used for personal activities like e-tendering, tax filings, MCA filings, etc.
- Issued in the name of a person.
- Class 3 Digital Signature for Organization
- Issued in the name of a company or firm.
- Used by business owners, directors, partners, or authorized signatories for business-related tasks.
- Issued in the name of a company or firm.
Additionally, Class 3 DSC can also be issued with the following signing rights:
- Sign Only – For signing documents.
- Sign & Encrypt – For signing and encrypting documents for confidentiality.
Documents Required for Class 3 Digital Signature
Before applying, keep the following documents ready:
For Individual:
- copyright-sized photograph
- PAN Card copy
- Aadhaar Card copy
- Mobile Number
- Email ID
- Video verification (as required by CA)
For Organization:
- copyright-sized photograph of the applicant
- PAN Card of the applicant
- Aadhaar Card of the applicant
- Company PAN Card copy
- Company Registration Certificate (like GST Certificate, Udyam, MSME Certificate)
- An authorization letter from the company
- Applicant's Email ID and Mobile Number
- Video verification
How to Apply for a Class 3 Digital Signature in India
Step 1: Visit Our Website
- Go to our website to start the process.
Step 2: Fill in Your Details
- User Type: Choose if you are an individual or an organization.
- Certificate Type: Pick if you need it just for signing documents or for both signing and encryption.
- Validity: Choose how long you want the certificate to last.
- Personal Info: Enter your name, phone number, email, and address.
- Agree to Terms: Check the box to agree to the terms.
- Submit: Click the submit button.
Step 3: Choose Token Option
- Already Have a Token?: If you have a USB token, choose "No." If you need a new one, choose "Yes."
Step 4: Make Payment
- Payment: Enter your payment details and choose how you want to pay (net banking, credit card, debit card, or UPI).
Step 5: Complete the Process
- Review: Make sure all your information is correct.
- Submit: Click submit and wait for a confirmation email.
Step 6: Get Your Digital Signature
- You’ll receive your digital signature on a USB token drive after processing.
Important Points to Remember
- Only licensed Certifying Authorities can issue a Class 3 DSC.
- Always verify the CA’s license and approval from the CCA.
- Video verification is compulsory and must be completed carefully.
- Keep your email ID and mobile number active and accessible.
- Keep your USB token safe. If it is lost or damaged, you may need to apply for a new DSC.
- The DSC can be renewed after expiry by contacting the same or any other Certifying Authority.
Benefits of Having a Class 3 Digital Signature
- Legally valid for government and private online activities.
- Highly secure and cannot be misused easily.
- Saves time and avoids paperwork.
- Can be used for e-Tendering, e-Filing, GST, MCA, and other services.
- Helps in fast approval and participation in online government projects.
- Make your business processes paperless and transparent.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Applying
- Submitting blurred or incomplete documents.
- Providing wrong email ID or mobile number.
- Not completing video verification on time.
- Not verifying the CA’s authorization before applying.
- Ignoring the validity period and type of DSC needed.
Suggested read- What is E-Mudra
Conclusion
A Class 3 Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is very important for individuals and businesses involved in online transactions, government tenders, and e-filing services. Applying for a Class 3 DSC in India is a simple process if done properly through authorized Certifying Authorities.
By following the correct steps — choosing a CA, filling out the form, uploading the right documents, making the payment, completing video verification, and downloading the DSC securely in a USB token — you can easily get your Class 3 DSC within a couple of days.
Always keep your DSC and USB token safe, and renew it on time to avoid any interruptions in your business and government dealings.
If you carefully follow the process explained in this guide, you can get your Class 3 DSC easily, securely, and legally in India.