Class 3 Combo DSC
Signing + Encryption in One Token
The complete digital signature solution that combines both signing and encryption certificates on a single USB token. Mandatory for e-Tendering on CPPP, GEM, IREPS, ICEGATE, and all state procurement portals.
What's Included
- Class 3 Signing Certificate (legally valid digital signature)
- Class 3 Encryption Certificate (encrypt documents & bids)
- Both certificates on one USB crypto token
- Optional FIPS-certified USB token
- Aadhaar-based eKYC - no paperwork needed
- Issued within a day
- Free re-issuance within validity period
- Dedicated Support
- Works on ALL government portals in India
- Pan-India delivery for USB token
What is a Class 3 Combo DSC?
A comprehensive digital identity solution that combines two distinct cryptographic certificates on a single USB token.
Signing Certificate
The signing certificate creates a legally valid digital signature under the Information Technology Act, 2000. When you sign a document with this certificate, it proves three things: the document was signed by you (authentication), the document has not been altered after signing (integrity), and you cannot deny having signed it (non-repudiation).
This is the same certificate used in a regular Class 3 DSC. It's legally equivalent to a handwritten signature and is accepted across all government portals including GST, MCA, Income Tax, and e-Tendering platforms.
Encryption Certificate
The encryption certificate enables you to encrypt documents so that only the intended recipient can decrypt and read them. This is critical for e-Tendering, where your bid documents must be encrypted to prevent unauthorized access before the official tender opening date. The encryption uses public-key cryptography - you encrypt with the recipient's public key, and only their private key can decrypt it.
This certificate is what makes Combo DSC different from a regular signing-only DSC. Many e-Tendering portals like CPPP, IREPS, and state procurement systems will not allow you to submit bids without an encryption certificate.
Why Both on One Token?
A Combo DSC loads both the signing and encryption certificates onto a single USB crypto token. This is not just a convenience - it's a practical necessity. When you participate in e-Tendering, the portal software needs access to both certificates during the bid submission process. You sign the bid documents (using the signing certificate) and encrypt them (using the encryption certificate) as part of the same workflow. Having both on one token makes this seamless.
Both certificates are issued under the Indian IT Act, 2000 and are validated by the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA), Government of India. They carry the same legal weight as certificates issued individually. The USB token itself is FIPS 140-2 certified, ensuring that your private keys never leave the secure hardware environment.
Combo DSC vs Buying Separately
See why Combo DSC is the smarter, more cost-effective choice over purchasing signing and encryption certificates separately.
Combo DSC
Sign + Encrypt on One Token
- Both certificates on 1 USB token
- Single application process
- One-time eKYC verification
- Unified validity & renewal
- Single password to manage
- Lower combined cost
- Mandatory tender compliance
- USB token available as an add-on
- Priority support
Separate Certificates
Sign + Encrypt as Separate Purchases
- May need 2 separate USB tokens
- Two separate applications needed
- eKYC required twice
- Different validity dates to track
- Two passwords to manage
- Higher total cost
- May have portal compatibility issues
- USB tokens charged separately
- Standard support only
Who Needs a Combo DSC?
If you fall into any of these categories, a Combo DSC is either mandatory or strongly recommended for your work.
e-Tendering Bidders
Anyone submitting bids on government e-Tendering portals. Encryption is mandatory for bid security - your financial quotes must be encrypted so they can only be opened after the bid deadline.
Government Contractors
Contractors executing government projects who need to regularly participate in tender processes and submit encrypted work orders, invoices, and compliance documents through procurement portals.
CPPP / GEM Vendors
Registered vendors on the Central Public Procurement Portal (CPPP) and Government e-Marketplace (GEM) who bid on central government tenders and supply contracts.
ICEGATE Users
Import-export businesses filing Bills of Entry, Shipping Bills, and other customs documents on ICEGATE. Encryption is required for secure transmission of customs data.
Organizations with Encryption Needs
Companies that need to exchange encrypted documents with government bodies, regulatory authorities, or business partners who require encrypted communication channels.
Anyone Submitting Encrypted Bids
Whether it's central, state, or PSU tenders - if the tender document mentions 'encryption certificate required' or 'combo DSC required', you need this certificate.
Portals Where Combo DSC is Required
Check whether your portal requires encryption or only signing. Portals marked "Mandatory" will not accept bids without an encryption certificate.
CPPP (eprocure.gov.in)
Central Public Procurement Portal
Encryption certificate is MANDATORY to encrypt bid documents before submission. Without it, you cannot submit bids.
GEM (gem.gov.in)
Government e-Marketplace
Required for certain high-value tenders and encrypted bid submissions on GEM portal.
IREPS (ireps.gov.in)
Indian Railways e-Procurement System
Railway procurement mandates encryption for bid security. Both signing and encryption certificates needed.
ICEGATE (icegate.gov.in)
Indian Customs Electronic Gateway
All customs filings including Bills of Entry, Shipping Bills, and other EXIM documents require encryption.
Maharashtra e-Procurement
mahatenders.gov.in
State government tenders mandate combo DSC for encrypted bid submissions.
Karnataka e-Procurement
eproc.karnataka.gov.in
All state tenders on Karnataka portal require both signing and encryption certificates.
Tamil Nadu e-Procurement
tntenders.gov.in
Combo DSC mandatory for all tender bid submissions on the Tamil Nadu portal.
UP e-Procurement
etender.up.nic.in
Uttar Pradesh state tenders require encryption-enabled DSC for bid security.
GST Portal
gst.gov.in
Only signing certificate required. Your combo DSC works here too - the signing cert is used automatically.
MCA Portal
mca.gov.in
Company filings require only signing. Combo DSC works perfectly - uses the signing certificate.
Income Tax e-Filing
incometax.gov.in
Tax returns need only signing certificate. Combo DSC is fully compatible for all ITR filings.
Pro Tip: Even if a portal currently only requires signing, many are transitioning to mandatory encryption. Getting a Combo DSC now means you're future-proofed and won't need to purchase a separate encryption certificate later. The small additional cost today can save you significant hassle and expense in the future.
How Combo DSC Works
Understanding the technical process behind your Combo DSC - from certificate generation to portal usage.
Two Key Pairs Generated
When you apply for a Combo DSC, the Certifying Authority generates two separate 2048-bit RSA key pairs - one dedicated to signing operations and one dedicated to encryption operations. Each key pair consists of a private key (kept secret on your token) and a public key (embedded in the certificate).
Both Certificates Loaded on Token
Both certificates along with their private keys are securely loaded onto a single FIPS 140-2 certified USB crypto token. The token's secure microcontroller ensures that private keys can never be extracted or copied - all cryptographic operations happen inside the token hardware.
Automatic Certificate Selection
When you use your Combo DSC on a portal, the portal's software (typically a Java applet or browser extension) automatically detects both certificates on your token. When signing is needed, the signing certificate is selected. When encryption is needed, the encryption certificate is used. You don't need to manually choose.
Seamless Portal Integration
On e-Tendering portals, the typical workflow is: you upload your bid documents, the portal software signs them with your signing certificate, then encrypts the signed package with the tender authority's public key using your encryption certificate. This ensures your bid is both authenticated and confidential.
Your USB Token Contains
Signing Certificate
Class 3 - Individual / Organization
- Purpose: Digital signing of documents
- Key Usage: Non-Repudiation
- Algorithm: 2048-bit RSA / SHA-256
Encryption Certificate
Class 3 - Individual / Organization
- Purpose: Encrypting documents & bids
- Key Usage: Key Encipherment
- Algorithm: 2048-bit RSA / SHA-256
Both certificates are issued by the same Certifying Authority (eMudhra or Capricorn), share the same validity period, and are protected by the same token PIN. The USB token securely stores both private keys in its tamper-proof hardware.
Certifying Authorities for Combo DSC
Only two CCA-licensed Certifying Authorities in India issue Combo DSCs with both signing and encryption certificates.
eMudhra
India's Largest Certifying Authority
- Largest CA in India by market share
- Issued 50M+ digital certificates
- Licensed by CCA, Government of India
- Combo DSC with Sign + Encrypt
- Fastest eKYC-based issuance
- Widest portal compatibility tested
Capricorn
Trusted CA for Government & Enterprise
- Preferred by government contractors
- Strong presence in e-Tendering segment
- Licensed by CCA, Government of India
- Combo DSC with Sign + Encrypt
- Reliable eKYC-based issuance
- Proven compatibility with all portals
Important: Not All CAs Offer Combo DSC
Pantasign and SignX currently issue only signing certificates and do not offer the encryption component needed for a Combo DSC. If you need Combo DSC for e-Tendering, you must choose either eMudhra or Capricorn. Both are equally accepted across all government portals.
How to Apply for Combo DSC
Get your Combo DSC in 4 simple steps. The entire process is online and paperless via Aadhaar eKYC.
Choose CA & Validity
Select your preferred Certifying Authority (eMudhra or Capricorn) and validity period (1, 2, or 3 years). Contact us via WhatsApp or phone to place your order.
Complete Aadhaar eKYC
Verify your identity using Aadhaar-based OTP authentication. Enter your Aadhaar number, receive OTP on your registered mobile, and authenticate. Takes under 2 minutes.
Upload Documents
Upload your PAN card, a passport-size photograph, and organization documents (if applying for org-level DSC). All uploads are digital - no physical documents needed.
Download & Install
Both your signing and encryption certificates are generated and loaded onto your USB token. Download the certificates, install drivers, and you're ready to sign and encrypt.
Documents Required
The documents you need depend on whether you're applying as an individual or on behalf of an organization.
For Individuals
Proprietors, Professionals, Freelancers
- Aadhaar Card - For eKYC OTP verification
- PAN Card - Clear copy of PAN card
- Passport-size Photograph - Recent color photo
- Email Address - Active email for certificate
- Mobile Number - Linked to Aadhaar for OTP
For Organizations
Companies, LLPs, Partnerships, Trusts
- All Individual Documents - As listed for the authorized signatory
- Organization PAN Card - PAN of the company / LLP / firm
- Registration Certificate - COI / LLP Agreement / Partnership Deed
- GST Certificate - If registered under GST
- Authorization Letter - On letterhead authorizing the signatory
Combo DSC Pricing
All prices include both signing and encryption certificates plus a free USB crypto token. No hidden charges.
eMudhra
- CCA Licensed Certifying AuthorityCapricorn
- CCA Licensed Certifying AuthorityAll prices inclusive of taxes. Free USB token and pan-India delivery included. Prices subject to change without notice.
Why Choose Our Combo DSC
Every Combo DSC from SignSecure comes with these features as standard. No upsells, no surprises.
Sign + Encrypt on One Token
Both your signing certificate and encryption certificate are loaded on a single USB token. No need to carry or manage two separate devices.
Mandatory Tender Compliance
Meets the mandatory requirement of all major e-Tendering portals including CPPP, GEM, IREPS, and state procurement systems.
Highest Security Level
Class 3 certificates with 2048-bit RSA encryption provide the highest level of identity assurance and document security available in India.
Unified Certificate Management
Both certificates share the same validity period and are managed together. One renewal, one token, one password - simplified management.
Free USB Crypto Token
Every Combo DSC comes with a FIPS 140-2 certified USB crypto token at no extra charge. Securely stores both your certificates.
Priority Support & Installation
Get priority WhatsApp and phone support for installation, portal configuration, and troubleshooting. We help you get started on any portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Class 3 Combo DSC, signing, encryption, and e-Tendering requirements.
A Combo DSC (Digital Signature Certificate) is a combination of two separate Class 3 certificates - a Signing Certificate and an Encryption Certificate - both loaded onto a single USB crypto token. The signing certificate is used to digitally sign documents, providing legal validity under the IT Act 2000. The encryption certificate is used to encrypt documents so that only the intended recipient can decrypt and read them. Together, they provide both authentication and confidentiality for your digital transactions.
Related Products
Explore our other Digital Signature Certificates and USB tokens.
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USB Crypto Tokens
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