What is DSC?
Digital Signature Certificate
A DSC (Digital Signature Certificate) is an electronic credential that lets a bidder sign and encrypt online bids on Indian e-procurement portals.
What is a DSC?
A Digital Signature Certificate is the electronic equivalent of a signature and seal. It proves who signed a document and shows whether the document was changed after signing.
For e-tendering in India, bidders generally need a Class 3 DSC, issued by a Certifying Authority licensed by the Controller of Certifying Authorities. It is usually stored on a USB token protected by a PIN.
How a DSC is used in tenders
Many portals ask for a DSC with both a signing and an encryption certificate. GeM also allows other signing methods, such as Aadhaar-based e-sign, for many steps.
- Logging in to e-procurement portals such as CPPP and state portals
- Signing each document you upload
- Encrypting bid files so they can be opened only at bid opening
- Signing clarifications and acceptance documents later in the process
Tips for bidders
Get the DSC in the name of the authorised signatory. For an organisation DSC, make sure it carries the firm’s name.
Check the expiry date. DSCs are usually issued for one to three years, and finding an expired DSC on deadline day can cost you the bid.
Register a new DSC on each portal well before you need it, and test your browser and token driver a few days before the deadline. Keep the token and PIN secure; anyone holding both can sign bids for your firm.
Common questions
Common questions about DSC in government tenders.
A Class 3 DSC is the standard requirement on Indian e-procurement portals. Some portals specify both signing and encryption certificates.
Yes, a valid DSC can usually be registered on several portals, but you must register it on each one separately.
You cannot sign or submit bids with an expired DSC. Renew it, then register the new certificate on each portal before bidding.
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