The Owner's 2026 Guide to DSC: Why You Can’t Build a Company Without It.

Starting a company today means navigating a complex web of legal and regulatory requirements. One critical element that often goes unnoticed but plays a vital role in company registration is the Class 3 Digital Signature Certificate (DSC). As 2026 approaches, the landscape is shifting with new rules that make biometric-linked DSCs mandatory for identity verification. This guide explains why Class 3 DSCs are indispensable for company founders and how services like StartFilings simplify the process.

Class 3 Digital Signature Certificate verification on a laptop

What is a Class 3 Digital Signature Certificate?

A Digital Signature Certificate is an electronic form of signature that authenticates the identity of the certificate holder. Among the three classes of DSCs, Class 3 is the highest level of security and is mandatory for certain transactions, including company registration.

• Class 1 DSC: Used for securing email communication.

• Class 2 DSC: Used for filing income tax returns and other financial transactions.

• Class 3 DSC: Required for e-tendering, e-procurement, and company registration.

  
  

Class 3 DSCs ensure that the person signing documents online is verified and authorized, reducing the risk of fraud.

Why Class 3 DSC is Crucial for Company Registration

When registering a company, founders must submit various documents electronically to government portals such as the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA). These documents require digital signatures to validate authenticity.

• Legal validity: A Class 3 DSC is legally recognized and complies with the Information Technology Act, 2000.

• Secure transactions: It encrypts data, ensuring that documents cannot be tampered with after signing.

• Faster processing: Digital signatures speed up approvals by eliminating the need for physical paperwork.

• Mandatory for directors: All directors must have a Class 3 DSC to sign company registration forms.

  
  

Without a Class 3 DSC, founders cannot complete the registration process online, making it a non-negotiable requirement.

The 2026 Shift to Biometric-Linked DSCs

Starting in 2026, the government is introducing a new rule that mandates biometric authentication for issuing Class 3 DSCs. This means that digital signatures will be linked to biometric data such as fingerprints or iris scans.

What this means for founders:

• Stronger identity verification: Biometric data reduces identity theft and impersonation risks.

• One-time verification: Once biometric data is linked, it simplifies future DSC renewals and transactions.

• Compliance with updated regulations: Companies must comply with these rules to avoid delays or rejection of registration.

  
  

This shift reflects a broader move toward more secure and reliable digital identity systems in India.

How StartFilings Simplifies the DSC Process

Obtaining a Class 3 DSC with biometric linkage can seem complicated, especially for first-time entrepreneurs. StartFilings offers an easy solution by handling the entire process online.

Features of StartFilings’ DSC service:

• Online application: Submit your documents and biometric data without visiting physical centers.

• Guided steps: Clear instructions help you complete the application correctly.

• Fast issuance: Digital signatures are issued quickly, reducing waiting times.

• Secure storage: Your DSC is stored safely and can be accessed whenever needed.

• Support for renewals: StartFilings assists with renewing your DSC before expiry.

  
  

By simplifying these steps, StartFilings helps founders focus on building their business instead of paperwork.

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Class 3 DSC in 2026

Here’s a practical overview of how to obtain a biometric-linked Class 3 DSC:

1. Prepare documents

   Gather your identity proof (Aadhaar card, PAN card), address proof, and passport-sized photograph.

   
   

2. Choose a Certifying Authority (CA)

   Select a government-approved CA or use a service like StartFilings that partners with trusted CAs.

   
   

3. Submit application online

   Fill out the application form on the CA’s website or StartFilings portal.

   
   

4. Complete biometric verification

   Use your smartphone or a biometric device to scan fingerprints or iris as required.

   
   

5. Verification by CA

   The CA verifies your documents and biometric data.

   
   

6. Receive DSC

   Once approved, download your Class 3 DSC and install it on your computer or USB token.

   
   

7. Use DSC for company registration

   Sign all required forms electronically during the company registration process.

   
   

Practical Examples of DSC Use in Company Registration

• Filing SPICe+ forms: The Simplified Proforma for Incorporating Company Electronically Plus (SPICe+) requires directors’ digital signatures to submit incorporation documents.

• Signing MOA and AOA: Memorandum and Articles of Association must be digitally signed by subscribers.

• Filing annual returns: Directors use DSCs to sign annual filings and other compliance documents.

  
  

Without a valid Class 3 DSC, these steps cannot be completed online, causing delays and possible penalties.

Benefits Beyond Registration

A Class 3 DSC is not just for company registration. It remains useful throughout the company’s lifecycle:

• Filing tax returns

• Signing contracts electronically

• Participating in e-tenders

• Accessing government services securely

  
  

This makes the DSC a valuable digital identity tool for business owners.

Preparing for the Future of Digital Identity

The move to biometric-linked DSCs signals a future where digital identity verification will become more secure and seamless. Founders who adopt these technologies early will benefit from smoother compliance and faster business processes.

• Stay updated: Keep track of government notifications about DSC rules.

• Choose reliable providers: Use trusted platforms like StartFilings to avoid errors.

• Plan renewals: DSCs typically expire after 1-2 years; renew on time to avoid disruptions.