Startup & Business
DSC (Digital Signature Certificate) — Meaning
Electronic signature issued by certifying authorities — required for filing company/LLP documents with MCA.
What is DSC (Digital Signature Certificate)?
Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is an electronic equivalent of a physical signature issued by a licensed Certifying Authority (CA). For MCA filings, companies and LLPs must use a Class 3 DSC (individual) for authorised signatories. DSC is also required for GST registration, income tax e-filing (for companies/LLPs), and other government portals. DSC is stored on a USB token and is valid for 1-2 years before renewal.
More Startup & Business terms
MCA (Ministry of Corporate Affairs)
India's government ministry administering the Companies Act and registering companies through the MCA portal.
ROC (Registrar of Companies)
Government authority under MCA that registers companies and LLPs and maintains statutory records.
DIN (Director Identification Number)
Unique 8-digit number assigned to every director of a company in India.
Private Limited Company
A separate legal entity incorporated under the Companies Act 2013 — most common startup structure.
LLP (Limited Liability Partnership)
Hybrid business structure with limited liability and partnership flexibility — governed by the LLP Act 2008.
