How to Register DSC on the GST Portal: Step-by-Step Guide

To register a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) on the GST Portal, log in to gst.gov.in, navigate to My Profile → Register/Update DSC, select the authorised signatory’s PAN, ensure the required emSigner utility is installed and running, and follow the prompts to select and sign with the certificate. The GST Portal accepts PAN-based DSCs, and the PAN must match the authorised signatory’s details.

The registration of a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) has to be done on the GST portal if a business has to file or validate GST applications and returns through its authorised signatory. This guide explains how you can register your DSC on the GST Portal.

What Is a DSC?

A Digital Signature Certificate is basically a digital signature provided by a licensed certifying authority. On the GST portal, this is used for signing documents and applications filed by the taxpayer or authorised signatory.

In simpler terms, DSC is a digital identity tied to a USB cryptographic token. After registering the DSC on the GST portal, the portal will connect the certificate to the PAN of the authorised signatory to enable them to sign GST forms digitally. The certificate must sit on a hardware token, and a certificate saved only as a file on the computer will not work.

Who Needs to Register a DSC on the GST Portal?

DSC registration is normally applicable for those individuals/organizations that have to sign GST documents using an authorised signatory. DSC registration becomes even more crucial if you are a company, an LLP or some other organisation that has a separate authorised signatory apart from the proprietor.

DSC is mandatory for:

• Private and public limited companies, including unlimited and foreign companies.
• Limited Liability Partnerships (LLP) and foreign LLPs.
• Public sector undertakings.

Companies and LLPs cannot use EVC or Aadhaar e-sign instead of a DSC, and they cannot file returns on the portal until a DSC is registered.

DSC is optional for:

• Partnership firms, trusts, societies and other non-company organisations. They can also verify with EVC or e-signature, but they can register a DSC if they prefer it.
• Sole proprietors and individuals.

A sole proprietor might not necessarily need a DSC for every action in GST, as there are also EVC and e-signature options on the GST portal in applicable situations. However, one has to register a DSC when it is required for your business.

Types of DSC Accepted by the GST Portal

According to the GST portal’s official user manual, DSC registration is PAN-based, and Class 2 and Class 3 DSCs are accepted on the GST portal. In practice, only a Class 3 DSC can be bought today. Class 2 certificates were discontinued from 1 January 2021, and an older Class 2 certificate stays usable only until it expires. See Class 2 vs Class 3 DSC for the difference.

DSC type	GST portal acceptance	Typical use
Class 2 DSC	Accepted until the certificate expires. No longer issued	Older certificates for GST registration and authorised-signatory verification
Class 3 DSC	Accepted as per GST portal manual. The current standard	Higher-assurance digital signing; GST, MCA, income tax and tender-related signing
Organisation (document signer) certificate	Used where the signing is done through an organisational/document-signer mechanism	Organisational signing requirements, subject to the certificate and portal workflow

Prior to the purchase or renewal of the DSC, companies should verify the requirements through a licensed Certifying Authority and make sure that the DSC is issued in the name of the right authorised signatory. DSC needs to match the PAN chosen while registering with the GST portal.

Cost and validity: a Class 3 DSC typically costs about Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 2,500 depending on the certifying authority and validity (1, 2 or 3 years). Issuance requires a PAN, Aadhaar-based e-KYC, a photograph and a short video verification, and the USB token can usually be reused on renewal. Renew at least 30 days before expiry.

Prerequisites Before DSC Registration

The following are the prerequisites that need to be made available prior to the start of the DSC registration process:

• Valid DSC issued in the name of the authorised signatory
• DSC USB Token and its driver software installed on the computer
• The authorised signatory’s PAN that should have already been entered in the GST registration form.
• Credentials to log into the GST portal with an existing registration or TRN & OTP access in case of a new registration.
• Installation of the emSigner utility on the computer.
• Administrator rights on the computer for installing and executing emSigner.
• A supported, up-to-date browser such as Chrome, Edge or Firefox.

In particular, the GST portal advises the user to make sure that emSigner, provided by eMudhra, is running on the laptop/ desktop with administrator rights prior to signing with DSC.

How to Install emSigner for GST DSC Registration

The emSigner software allows the GST portal to connect to your DSC token and electronically sign the request. emSigner has to be installed prior to registering or updating DSC.

Installation procedure

Step 1

• Go to the GST Portal at the following URL: https://www.gst.gov.in/.
• Go to the Register/Update DSC page.
• Click ‘Click here for instructions on installing signer utility.’
• On the Document Signer Install page, click the correct download link according to your operating system.

Step 2

Download the emSigner.msi file.

Step 3

• Double-click the downloaded file and launch emSigner Setup Assistant.
• Click Next and select the default installation location under Program Files or any other location.
• Click Install to start the installation process.
• Click Finish after the installation process is complete.
• Right-click on the emSigner icon on the desktop and select ‘Run as administrator’.
• Click OK if the confirmation message pops up stating that emSigner Service has been started.
• Use the version of emSigner that the portal’s download page offers. GST guidance has asked for version 2.6 or later for certain return filing scenarios.

Step-by-Step Process to Register DSC on the GST Portal

For the registration of DSC on an existing GST registration, the procedure would be as follows:

1. Log in to the GST portal using valid credentials.
2. Click on Profile Name and navigate to My Profile. (You can also use Register/Update DSC under Quick Links on the dashboard.)
3. Register/Update DSC.
4. On the Register Digital Signature Certificate Page, choose the PAN of the authorised signatory from the drop-down list.
5. Ensure that emSigner has been downloaded and installed by clicking on the checkbox.
6. Click Proceed.
7. Connect the DSC USB Token if not yet done.
8. Select the appropriate digital signature displayed in emSigner.
9. Click Sign.
10. After successful signing, the GST portal will display the confirmation for DSC registration.

Important Points

• The PAN provided in the GST registration form alone can be used to register DSC.
• DSC belongs to the authorised signatory with the chosen PAN.
• emSigner should be run with administrative privileges when signing.
• If the DSC is not yet registered, GST workflow involving DSC registration may produce error messages suggesting the registration of DSC.
• If you hold more than one GSTIN, the DSC is usually registered separately on each GSTIN login, so check each one.

How to Register DSC During New GST Registration

Firms that are filing for fresh GST registration might also have to get their registration verified through the DSC process, based on their respective categories and applicable methods of verification. Companies and LLPs must sign the application with a DSC, and the PAN on the certificate has to match the authorised signatory entered in the form. See the role of digital signatures in GST registration for the application flow, or take help with new GST registration.

Procedure at the Official GST Portal for Fresh Registration is as follows:

1. Open https://www.gst.gov.in/.
2. Click Register Now.
3. Choose the Temporary Reference Number (TRN) choice.
4. Provide the TRN obtained.
5. Click Proceed.
6. Provide the OTP sent to your registered mobile number and email ID.
7. Click Proceed.
8. Where the portal shows it, choose the option under Services > User Services > Register/Update DSC.
9. Choose the PAN of the authorised signatory.
10. Confirm that you have installed emSigner software and then sign using the DSC.

The GST portal highlights that the OTP issued for the purpose of verification of new registration is only valid for 10 minutes.

How to Update or Re-register DSC on the GST Portal

Update or re-registration of the DSC may be required when the authorised signatory changes, expiry of DSC, issuance of a new DSC, or replacement of the existing DSC is replaced.

For updating the DSC:

1. Log in to the GST portal.
2. Navigate to My Profile.
3. Choose Register/ Update DSC.
4. Choose the PAN of the authorised signatory for which you wish to update the DSC.
5. Follow the similar steps for emSigner and choose the certificate.
6. Sign with the new or renewed DSC.

It is recommended to update the authorised signatory’s information in the GST registration first (wherever applicable), as the registration of the DSC is based on the PAN mentioned in the registration application. Keep the authorisation on record with a board resolution for the authorised signatory.

Common DSC Errors and Troubleshooting

The most common errors related to DSC on the GST portal can be due to the token driver, emSigner permission, browser settings, and PAN mismatch with DSC.

Issue	Likely cause	Recommended action
emSigner not detected	emSigner is not running or lacks administrator rights	Run emSigner as administrator and restart the browser
‘Failed to connect to emSigner’ after renewal	The renewed Class 3 token needs its own driver, which differs from the old Class 2 driver	Install the driver that came with the new token, then restart emSigner
Certificate not displayed	DSC token driver not installed or token not inserted	Install the token driver, reconnect the token, and reopen emSigner
PAN not available in dropdown	PAN not specified in the GST registration form	Update authorised signatory details in GST registration first
DSC error during filing	DSC not registered on the GST portal	Go to Dashboard > Register/Update DSC and register the DSC
Signing fails after certificate selection	Browser, Java, token, or emSigner compatibility issue	Use the official GST portal instructions and ensure emSigner is running with admin rights
Certificate expired	The DSC validity has ended	Renew the DSC and register the renewed certificate again

The error troubleshooting advice on the GST portal clearly directs those who receive DSC related error messages to check whether the DSC has been registered on the portal through Dashboard > Register/Update DSC.

DSC vs EVC vs E-Signature on GST Portal

The GST portal offers various modes of verification, and businesses need to be aware of when each mode can be used.

Verification method	What it uses	Best suited for
DSC	Digital Signature Certificate and USB token	Companies and LLPs (mandatory), and any authorised signatory who prefers it
EVC	OTP on registered mobile and email	Individuals, proprietors, partnership firms and other eligible non-company taxpayers
E-Signature	Aadhaar-based electronic signature, where applicable	Individual taxpayers and eligible non-company verification cases

While DSC is the formal digital signing solution meant for authorised signatories, EVC and e-signature are the alternate electronic verification options available as allowed, but not for companies and LLPs. The appropriate method would depend on the type of business, nature of filing, and the GST portal process flow.

Where You Will Use the Registered DSC

• Signing the GST registration application and amendments.
• Filing GST returns such as GSTR-1, GSTR-3B and the annual return.
• Furnishing a Letter of Undertaking and filing refund claims.
• Submitting replies to notices, for example, when you need to reply to a GST notice.

Security Best Practices for Businesses

DSC is an important business security measure and hence needs to be treated with the same degree of security as a bank token and password.

• Keep the DSC USB token safe and ensure that it is accessed only by authorised persons.
• Do not share the DSC PIN, token password or signing credentials with unauthorised people.
• Use a dedicated, up-to-date computer for GST submissions where possible.
• Ensure that token drivers and emSigner are installed from authentic sources only.
• Replace the DSC in case the token is stolen or misplaced, and ask the certifying authority to revoke it.
• Update the GST portal records promptly when the authorised signatory changes.

How Kanakkupillai Can Help

1. Eligibility for DSC and DSC Selection:

• Help determine if your company needs a DSC for GST registration or filing.
• Can help determine the right authorised signatory for DSC registration.
• Help you get a Class 3 DSC with the right validity, as Class 2 is no longer issued.
• Arrange for DSC issuance or renewal.

2. GST Registration Assistance:

• Help with new GST registration applications and TRN-based verification.
• Helps gather all necessary information about the business, promoters, and authorised signatory.
• Helps verify DSC in the GST registration process.
• Can assist in proprietorship, partnership, LLP and company GST registration.

3. Installation of emSigner:

• Helps download and install emSigner step by step.
• Help set up emSigner to run as an administrator.
• Help with installation of DSC token driver and token verification.
• Troubleshoot common emSigner and browser-related signing issues.

4. DSC Registration on GST Portal:

• Assist in registering the DSC for the right authorised signatory’s PAN.
• Guide through the process of Register/Update DSC.
• Help with selection of certificates and digitally sign.
• Validate DSC registration successfully and solve portal errors.

5. Changes in Authorised Signatories:

• Assist in updating authorised signatory details in the GST database as and when required.
• Help in re-registration of the DSC after a change in the signatory.
• Guide businesses through director/partner/signatory changes.
• Help to keep the GST database updated with authorised representatives of the business entity.

6. GST Compliance on an Ongoing Basis:

• Help with GST return filing and DSC verification wherever required.
• Help to maintain documentation for GST filing and authorised signatory details.
• Help businesses with notifications, amendments, and follow-up.
• Provide ongoing advisory support for businesses managing multiple GST registrations.

Conclusion

Getting a DSC registered with the GST portal is an integral part of the process for many Indian firms, LLPs, and businesses through authorised signatories. This is simple if one has the right DSC, token drivers, PAN of the authorised signatory, and the utility of emSigner; otherwise, even a minor error may cause problems with GST registration and submission. Through proper use of the GST portal procedure, maintaining the security of DSC details, and updating the registration as per changes in the authorised signatory, one may easily achieve GST compliance.

FAQs

1. Is DSC mandatory for GST registration?

DSC is mandatory for companies, LLPs and certain other entities such as foreign companies and public sector undertakings. Other taxpayers, such as proprietors and partnership firms, may be able to verify applications using EVC or e-signature, depending on eligibility and the specific GST workflow.

2. Which DSC is accepted on the GST portal?

The official GST portal manual states that PAN-based Class 2 and Class 3 DSCs are accepted for DSC registration. Class 2 is no longer issued, so a new DSC will be Class 3.

3. Can I register any DSC on the GST portal?

No. DSC registration is PAN-based, and only the PAN specified in the GST registration form can be used. The DSC should belong to the authorised signatory whose PAN is selected.

4. What is emSigner and why is it needed?

emSigner is the utility used by the GST portal to communicate with the DSC token and enable digital signing. It must be installed and run with administrator permissions before DSC registration or signing.

5. How do I register DSC for an existing GST registration?

Log in to the GST portal, go to My Profile, click Register / Update DSC, select the authorised signatory’s PAN, confirm emSigner installation, select the certificate, and click Sign.

6. What should I do if my DSC is not detected?

Ensure the DSC token is connected, its driver is installed, and emSigner is running as administrator. Then retry the certificate-selection process on the GST portal.

7. Can I update my DSC after it expires?

Yes. You can re-register or update the DSC through My Profile > Register / Update DSC after obtaining a new or renewed DSC.

8. Does DSC registration remain valid permanently?

No. A DSC has a validity period determined by the Certifying Authority, usually 1 to 3 years. When it expires or is replaced, the authorised signatory must register the new or renewed DSC on the GST portal.

9. Do sole proprietors need a DSC for GST?

Not necessarily. They can use EVC or e-signature, but they may register a DSC if they want one.

10. Can the same DSC be used on the GST, MCA and income tax portals?

Yes. A PAN-based Class 3 DSC on a token can be used across these portals, but it has to be registered on each portal where registration is required.

11. Why is the PAN not showing in the dropdown?

Only PANs already entered as authorised signatories in the GST registration appear. Add the signatory to the registration first.

12. Do I need to register the DSC again after renewal?

Yes. Register the renewed certificate through Register/Update DSC, and install the new token’s driver if you get an emSigner connection error.