How to Apply Digital Signature for e-Tender in India (2025 Guide) | Step-by-Step Process

Introduction

In the digital age, the e-tendering process has become the standard for government procurement and corporate contracts in India. One of the most critical requirements for participating in e-tenders is a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC). Whether you are a contractor, supplier, or service provider, understanding how to apply for a digital signature for e-tender is essential for compliance and successful bidding.

This comprehensive guide explains the complete process of applying for a digital signature, including types, documents required, registration steps, and FAQs. Our step-by-step tutorial is tailored for ranking on Google Search, helping users like you easily navigate the application and e-tender submission process.

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What is a Digital Signature for e-Tender?

A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is an electronic form of a signature that authenticates the identity of the user while signing digital documents. In e-tendering, DSCs are used for:

• Logging into the e-procurement portal
• Encrypting bid documents
• Digitally signing tenders and agreements

It is legally recognized under the Information Technology Act, 2000 and is mandatory for participating in government e-procurement platforms like:

• CPP Portal (Central Public Procurement)
• GeM (Government e-Marketplace)
• IREPS (Indian Railways e-Procurement)
• MSTC
• eProcurement.gov.in
• State-level eTender portals

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Why is DSC Mandatory for e-Tendering?

Key Benefits of Using DSC in e-Tender:

• ✅ Ensures authentication and confidentiality
• ✅ Enables legally valid electronic signatures
• ✅ Eliminates the need for paper-based submissions
• ✅ Enhances transparency in the bidding process
• ✅ Required for encryption and decryption of bids

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Types of Digital Signature Certificates for e-Tender

There are different types of DSCs based on usage and validation level. For e-tendering, the following are applicable:

1. Class 3 Digital Signature Certificate

• Most secure and widely used for e-tendering.
• Mandatory for e-procurement, bidding, and online auctions.
• Issued to both individuals and organizations.
• Comes with signing and encryption functionality.

2. Combo DSC (Sign + Encrypt)

• Includes both signing and encryption features in one token.
• Required for secure document submission in tenders.
• Prevents tampering of submitted files.

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Who Can Apply for DSC for e-Tender?

• Individual vendors
• Proprietors
• Company directors
• Government contractors
• LLPs, NGOs, and enterprises bidding on government portals

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Documents Required to Apply for DSC for e-Tender

For Individuals:

• PAN Card (mandatory)
• Aadhaar Card / Passport / Driving License
• Passport-size photo
• Mobile number and email ID
• Video verification (OTP and facial authentication)

For Organizations:

• PAN Card of company
• Certificate of Incorporation
• Board Resolution / Authorization Letter
• ID proof and PAN of authorized signatory
• GST Certificate (optional)

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How to Apply Digital Signature for e-Tender – Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Choose the Right DSC Type

• Select Class 3 Combo DSC (Sign + Encrypt)
• Validity can be 1 year, 2 years, or 3 years

Step 2: Select a Certifying Authority (CA)

Approved Certifying Authorities in India:

• eMudhra
• Capricorn
• VSign
• Sify Safescrypt
• NSDL
• IDSign

Choose a CA or licensed DSC provider registered with CCA India.

Step 3: Fill Online Application Form

Visit the official website of the CA or DSC provider. Fill in:

• Applicant name
• Email ID
• Mobile number
• Address details
• PAN and Aadhaar details

Step 4: Upload Documents

Upload scanned copies of:

• PAN Card
• Aadhaar/Passport
• Passport-size photo
• Organization documents (if applicable)

Ensure the documents are clear and match the registered name.

Step 5: Complete Video Verification

• You will receive a video link on your mobile/email.
• Record a short video holding your original documents and stating the purpose (e.g., “Applying for Digital Signature for e-Tendering”).

This is mandatory for KYC under CCA guidelines.

Step 6: Make Payment

Pay the required fee online. The cost of a DSC for e-tender varies:

Prices may vary by provider and location.

Step 7: DSC Download and Token Installation

• Once approved, your DSC will be downloaded to a secure USB Token (FIPS-certified).
• Popular tokens: HYP2003, Watchdata ProxKey, ePass 2003 Auto.
• Install token drivers and middleware software (provided by the token manufacturer).

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How to Use DSC for e-Tendering Portals

1. Register DSC on eProcurement Portal

• Visit the tender portal (e.g., https://eprocure.gov.in)
• Click “Online Bidder Enrollment”
• Insert USB token and click “Register DSC”
• Validate using Java-based utility or WebSigner plugin

2. Login Using DSC

• Insert the DSC token
• Click on “Login using DSC”
• Choose the certificate and authenticate

3. Sign and Submit Bid

• Fill the bid form online
• Upload required documents
• Click “Sign and Submit”
• The portal will prompt digital signing using your DSC

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Common Issues & Troubleshooting

🔧 DSC Not Detected?

• Install token driver & Java version (1.8)
• Use supported browsers (Internet Explorer, Firefox)
• Add portal URL to Java security exception list

🔧 PKI Component Error?

• Download the PKI component from the portal
• Install and restart the browser

🔧 WebSigner Error?

• Ensure WebSigner utility is properly installed
• Allow pop-ups and check firewall settings

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Valid Portals That Accept DSC for e-Tender

Some of the major platforms include:

• https://eprocure.gov.in
• https://gem.gov.in
• https://ireps.gov.in
• https://tenderwizard.com
• https://mstcecommerce.com

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FAQs – Digital Signature for e-Tender

Q1. Is Class 2 DSC valid for e-Tendering?

❌ No. Only Class 3 Combo DSC (Sign + Encrypt) is valid.

Q2. Can I use the same DSC for multiple portals?

✅ Yes. You can use a single Class 3 DSC across different portals.

Q3. What is the validity of a DSC?

You can choose 1-year, 2-year, or 3-year validity based on your needs.

Q4. Can I update or renew an expired DSC?

✅ Yes. You can renew your DSC using the same provider or apply for a new one.

Q5. Is Aadhaar mandatory to apply for DSC?

While Aadhaar simplifies eKYC, passport or voter ID can also be used.

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Final Thoughts

A Digital Signature Certificate is not just a legal formality—it is the foundation of secure, fast, and transparent e-procurement. Whether you are new to online tendering or a seasoned vendor, applying for the right DSC and understanding how to use it is crucial for winning tenders.

Choose an authorized DSC provider, complete KYC, and configure your token properly to avoid errors. If you need help, you can always reach out to a certified digital signature agent.

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🔍 Need Help Applying for DSC?

We offer Class 3 Combo DSC (Sign + Encrypt) for eTendering with:

• ✅ Quick processing
• ✅ Home delivery of USB token
• ✅ Support for registration on all major tender portals

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