Class 3 Signing or Class 3 Combo DSC: Which One Should You Buy?

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A Digital Signature Certificate holds a key pair. A signing certificate signs documents: the signature proves who signed and shows whether the file changed afterwards. An encryption certificate locks data so only the intended recipient can open it. On Rajasthan eProc, the portal’s DSC page lists two key pairs for department users, one for signing and one for encryption, and bid data is encrypted on the bidder’s own computer using PKI before upload.

Portals that need signing only

GST
The GST portal accepts PAN based Class II and III DSC for signing returns and forms. Companies, LLPs and other specified entities must use a DSC. Others may use EVC or Aadhaar eSign.

MCA and ROC
Directors, designated partners and professionals register a signing DSC on MCA21 V3. The Role Check verifies signatures on eForms.

Income Tax
Companies and political parties use the Principal Contact’s DSC for e-verification. Chartered accountants use their DSC to upload tax audit reports. Both need a signing certificate.

DGFT
The DGFT portal needs a Class 3 signing DSC for IEC work. The certificate details must match the IEC and signatory profile. Aadhaar eSign is an alternative.

Portals that may need encryption

E-tendering
Rajasthan eProc encrypts bid data on the bidder’s own computer using PKI. The portal page for department users shows two key pairs. For bidders the tender notice should be checked. A combo certificate covers both signing and encryption requirements.

GeM
GeM accepts Class 3 certificates for digital signing. For a specific bid or workflow, check the GeM bid documents and portal guidance.

Other state portals and CPPP
Requirements vary. Check the specific tender notice or portal guidance. A combo certificate is the safer choice when encryption is mentioned.

Simple decision guide

Use case Recommended certificate
GST returns, MCA forms, Income Tax, DGFT, EPFO Class 3 signing
Rajasthan eProc bidding, other state e-tenders, ICEGATE Class 3 combo
Both sets of portals Class 3 combo covers signing too

Current prices are on the product pages.

What if you bought signing only and now need encryption

If you have a signing only certificate and a tender requires encryption, contact us and we can talk through the options. Whether you can add encryption depends on the CA’s policy.

The certificate for this work

Class 3 combo

Bidders and exporters

Signing plus encryption on one token. E-tendering, ICEGATE and reissue. Rajasthan eProc needs signing only.

₹2,410/ 2 years

Frequently Asked Questions

Look through the answers below. If yours is not there, message us and we will help you choose.

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Can a signing DSC be used for GST?
Yes. The GST portal accepts PAN based Class II and III DSC for signing. Companies, LLPs and other specified entities must sign with a DSC, while others may use EVC or Aadhaar eSign.
Does GeM need encryption?
GeM accepts Class 3 certificates for digital signing. For a specific bid or workflow, check the GeM bid documents and portal guidance.
Is a token mandatory?
Yes. The private key must stay on a hardware crypto token that meets current CCA requirements.
Can a DSC be moved between accounts?
On Rajasthan eProc a DSC maps to one account only. Once mapped it cannot move to another account, it can only be inactivated.