How to Obtain DSC and DPIN for LLP Partners in India: Step-by-Step Guide

Last Updated on July 11, 2026

Starting a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) in India involves fulfilling certain legal requirements before the business can be registered with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA). Two of the most important requirements for designated partners are obtaining a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) and a Designated Partner Identification Number (DPIN).

However, many entrepreneurs are confused about whether they need both DSC and DPIN, whether DPIN is still issued separately and how the application process works.

The answer is simple: a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is obtained from a licensed Certifying Authority, while DPIN has been integrated with the Director Identification Number (DIN). Today, designated partners obtain a DIN, which serves as their DPIN for LLP purposes.

This guide explains everything you need to know about obtaining a DSC and DIN (DPIN) for LLP partners, including eligibility, required documents, application process, timelines and frequently asked questions.

Applying for a DSC and DIN correctly at the beginning can help ensure a smooth LLP registration process.

What is a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)?

A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is an electronic signature that allows an individual to digitally sign documents filed online.

For LLPs, the MCA accepts forms only when they are digitally signed using a valid DSC.

Without a DSC, designated partners cannot: –

• Sign the LLP incorporation forms
• File Form 11
• File Form 8
• Submit LLP-related applications
• Complete various MCA e-filings

A DSC is legally recognised under the Information Technology Act, 2000 and helps ensure the authenticity and integrity of electronic documents.

Which Class of DSC Do LLP Partners Need?

DSCs in India are issued in different classes. For MCA filings, only Class 3 DSC is accepted since January 1, 2021; the MCA has stopped accepting Class 2 DSC for all e-filings.

DSC Class	MCA Acceptance	Use Case
Class 1	Not accepted	Email/basic identity only
Class 2	Not accepted (withdrawn Jan 2021)	Previously used for ROC/MCA
Class 3	Mandatory for all MCA filings	LLP incorporation, Form 8, Form 11, all e-filings

Class 3 DSC provides the highest level of authentication, requiring in-person verification or video-based verification by the Certifying Authority. Applying for the wrong class wastes time and money since the process must be restarted.

What is DPIN?

Designated Partner Identification Number (DPIN) is a unique identification number allotted to designated partners of an LLP.

However, under the current MCA framework, DPIN has been integrated with the Director Identification Number (DIN). This means separate DPIN applications are no longer required. A person who obtains a DIN can use it as the identification number for acting as a designated partner in an LLP.

In simple terms: –

• No separate DPIN is issued today.
• DIN serves as the DPIN for LLP purposes.

Why Do LLP Partners Need DSC and DIN (DPIN)?

A DSC and a DIN (acting as DPIN) are essential for completing various legal and regulatory requirements.

These include: –

• Incorporation of an LLP
• Appointment as a Designated Partner
• Filing annual MCA returns
• Filing changes in LLP details
• Signing statutory documents electronically
• Complying with MCA filing requirements

Without these, designated partners cannot complete many mandatory online filings.

DSC and DIN are the first items on every LLP registration checklist. See our complete LLP registration checklist for tech and SaaS startups for the full pre-incorporation requirements.

Difference Between DSC and DPIN

Particular	DSC	DIN (DPIN)
Purpose	Electronic signature	Unique identification number
Mandatory for Designated Partners	Yes	Yes
Issued By	Licensed Certifying Authority	Ministry of Corporate Affairs
Used For	Signing MCA forms	Identification of designated partners
Validity	Limited validity and renewable	Generally, remains valid unless surrendered, deactivated or cancelled in accordance with applicable law

A designated partner generally requires both a valid DSC and a DIN to complete MCA filings.

Documents Required for Obtaining a DSC

Applicants should generally keep the following documents ready: –

Document	Purpose
PAN Card	Identity proof
Aadhaar Card (or other accepted identity proof)	Identity verification
Passport-sized photograph	Application process
Mobile number	OTP verification
Email ID	Communication
Address proof	Verification

Additional documents may be required depending on the Certifying Authority and the applicant’s category.

Documents Required for DIN (DPIN)

The exact documentation may vary depending on the mode of application and the applicant’s residential status.

Commonly required documents include: –

Document	Purpose
PAN Card	Identity proof
Aadhaar Card or Passport	Identity verification
Address proof	Residential verification
Passport (for foreign nationals, where applicable)	Identity proof
Photograph	Application
Email ID and Mobile Number	Communication

All documents should be accurate, complete and consistent with the applicant’s official records.

Step-by-Step Process to Obtain a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)

Obtaining a DSC is normally a straightforward process.

Step 1: Choose a Licensed Certifying Authority

Apply through a licensed Certifying Authority authorised to issue the Digital Signature Certificates in India.

Which Certifying Authorities Issue DSC in India?

DSCs must be obtained from a Certifying Authority licensed by the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA) under the Information Technology Act 2000. Currently licensed authorities include:

• eMudhra
• Sify Technologies
• NSDL e-Governance
• (n)Code Solutions
• Capricorn Identity Services

All provide Class 3 DSC. Pricing and verification processes differ slightly; most now offer online video-based verification, which allows the DSC to be issued without physically visiting an office. Typical cost ranges from ₹1,000 to ₹2,500 per DSC, depending on the validity period chosen.

Step 2: Complete the Application

Fill in the application form with the various required personal details.

Step 3: Upload Documents

Submit the prescribed identity and address proof documents along with the application.

Step 4: Complete Verification

Complete the applicable verification process, which may include online verification, OTP-based authentication or video verification, depending on the Certifying Authority’s procedures.

Step 5: Issuance of DSC

After successful verification, the Digital Signature Certificate is issued and can be installed for use in MCA filings.

Already have a DSC? Read our step-by-step guide to learn how to download your DSC certificate online, install it securely, and start using it for MCA, GST, and other e-filing services.

Step-by-Step Process to Obtain DIN (DPIN) for LLP Partners

Since DPIN has been integrated with DIN, individuals intending to become designated partners generally need to obtain a Director Identification Number (DIN) if they do not already have one.

The process is usually completed as part of LLP incorporation or through the applicable MCA procedure, depending on the circumstances.

Step 1: Check Whether You Already Have a DIN

Before applying, verify whether you already have a DIN.

If you already possess a valid DIN, you should not apply for another one, as the same identification number can be used for acting as a designated partner in an LLP.

Step 2: Keep the Required Documents Ready

Ensure that all identity and address proof documents are available and that the information and data match your official records.

Incorrect or inconsistent details may delay the application process.

Step 3: Submit the Application Through the MCA Process

For first-time designated partners, DIN is commonly allotted through the applicable MCA incorporation or prescribed application process.

The details provided should be accurate and proper, and supported by valid documentation.

Step 4: Verification of Documents

The submitted information has been verified in accordance with the applicable MCA requirements.

If any clarification or additional documentation is required, it should be provided promptly to avoid delays.

Step 5: DIN Allotment

Once the application is approved, a DIN is allotted, which also serves as the DPIN for LLP purposes.

The allotted DIN can then be used for appointment as a designated partner and for future MCA filings.

Time Required to Obtain DSC and DIN (DPIN)

The processing time depends on document accuracy, verification requirements and the issuing authority.

Particular	Typical Time
Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)	Generally, 1–3 working days
DIN (DPIN)	Usually processed as part of the applicable MCA process

Actual timelines may vary depending on verification requirements and the volume of applications.

Validity of a Digital Signature Certificate

A DSC is issued with a specified validity period by the licensed Certifying Authority.

Once it expires, it must be renewed before it can be used for signing MCA forms.

It is advisable to renew the DSC before the expiry date to avoid interruptions in LLP filings.

Does DIN (DPIN) Expire?

Unlike a DSC, a DIN does not require periodic renewal.

However, designated partners must comply with the applicable MCA requirements, including DIR-3 KYC, wherever applicable.

DIR-3 KYC – What DIN Holders Must Do?

Every person holding a DIN (including LLP designated partners) must file DIR-3 KYC to keep the DIN active. Key facts:

• Updated 2026 rule: DIR-3 KYC is now required once every 3 years, not annually, per MCA notification effective March 31, 2026
• Due date: June 30 of the applicable year
• Filed through: MCA V3 portal using a valid DSC or Aadhaar OTP

Read our latest guide on the DIR-3 KYC New Rules 2026 to understand MCA updates, filing requirements, deadlines, and compliance for LLP Designated Partners.

What happens if DIR-3 KYC is missed:

• DIN is marked “Deactivated” immediately after the deadline
• A deactivated DIN means the designated partner cannot sign any MCA form
• All LLP filings (Form 8, Form 11, FiLLiP, etc.) are blocked until reactivated
• Reactivation requires filing DIR-3 KYC with a ₹5,000 penalty fee per DIN

For an LLP with two designated partners who both miss DIR-3 KYC, the total reactivation cost is ₹10,000 before professional fees and all compliance filings are frozen until both DINs are reactivated.

What Happens When a DIN Is Deactivated?

A deactivated DIN doesn’t just affect the individual partner; it affects the entire LLP’s compliance:

Filing Blocked	Consequence
Form 11 (Annual Return)	A late filing fee of ₹100/day accumulates
Form 8 (Accounts & Solvency)	A late filing fee of ₹100/day accumulates
FiLLiP (new LLP)	Cannot incorporate
Form 3 (LLP Agreement)	Cannot file — penalty accumulates
Form 4 (Partner changes)	Cannot update partner details

Since both LLP penalties (₹100/day, no cap) and DIN reactivation fees run simultaneously, a missed DIR-3 KYC can turn into a compounding compliance emergency quickly, especially near Form 8’s October 30 or Form 11’s May 30 deadlines.

For LLP founders who have wound up all their LLPs and companies, surrendering the DIN removes the future obligation to file DIR-3 KYC saving the compliance cost going forward.

Benefits of Obtaining DSC and DIN (DPIN)

Obtaining a DSC and DIN is more than just a legal requirement; it also enables smooth electronic governance and business compliance.

Some of the key benefits include: –

• Enables online incorporation of an LLP.
• Allows designated partners to sign MCA forms electronically.
• Provides a unique identification number for designated partners.
• Simplifies annual compliance and statutory filings.
• Reduces paperwork through secure digital authentication.
• Supports faster online processing of MCA applications.
• Helps ensure compliance with the LLP Act and MCA regulations.

When Will You Need Your DSC and DIN?

After obtaining them, designated partners will use their DSC and DIN for various LLP-related activities, including: –

• LLP incorporation
• Appointment of designated partners
• Filing Form 3 (where applicable)
• Filing Form 8 (Statement of Account and Solvency)
• Filing Form 11 (Annual Return)
• Filing changes in partner details
• Other MCA e-forms related to LLP compliance

Keeping the DSC active and ensuring DIN-related compliances are completed on time will help avoid delays in future filings.

Form 8 and Form 11, both requiring a valid DSC, have fixed annual deadlines. See our LLP compliance calendar for all due dates and late fee details.

Conclusion

Obtaining a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) and a DIN (which serves as the DPIN for LLP purposes) is one of the first and most important steps in forming and managing an LLP in India. By understanding the eligibility requirements, keeping the necessary documents ready and following the correct application process, designated partners can complete MCA filings smoothly and stay compliant with applicable legal requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is DSC Mandatory for LLP Partners?

Yes.

Every designated partner who is required to sign and file electronic forms with the MCA must have a valid Digital Signature Certificate.

Since LLP registration and annual compliance are completed online, a DSC is one of the basic requirements for designated partners.

2. Is DIN (DPIN) Mandatory for LLP Partners?

Yes. Every designated partner must have a valid DIN, which functions as the DPIN for LLP purposes.

Individuals who already possess a DIN do not need to apply for another identification number before becoming designated partners in an LLP.

3. Who Can Become a Designated Partner?

A person can generally become a designated partner if they satisfy the applicable legal requirements under the LLP Act.

Typically, the individual should: –

• Be an individual (not a body corporate)
• Be legally competent to enter into a contract
• Obtain a DIN (DPIN)
• Hold a valid DSC for electronic filings
• Meet other applicable eligibility conditions prescribed under the law

4. Is DPIN different from DIN?

No. Under the current MCA framework, DPIN has been integrated with DIN. A DIN serves as the identification number for designated partners of an LLP.

5. Can I become a designated partner without a DIN?

No. Every designated partner is required to have a valid DIN, which functions as the DPIN for LLP purposes.

6. Can I use the same DIN for multiple LLPs?

Yes. A valid DIN can generally be used for appointment as a designated partner in more than one LLP, subject to the applicable legal provisions.

7. Do I need a separate DSC for every LLP?

No. A valid DSC belongs to the individual and can generally be used for signing forms relating to different LLPs where the person is authorised to act.

8. How many LLPs can one person be a designated partner of simultaneously?

Under the LLP Act 2008, one person can be a designated partner in a maximum of 20 LLPs. This limit is separate from the 20-company director limit under the Companies Act — both caps apply independently, not in combination.