If you file GST as a company or LLP, a Class 3 DSC is mandatory to sign returns and registrations. Here's how to register it on the GST portal, start to finish.
Before you start
- A valid Class 3 DSC on a USB token (need one? buy a DSC).
- The token driver installed for your token brand (ePass 2003, ProxKey, Watchdata, etc.).
- The emSigner utility installed and running.
- The DSC holder's PAN must match the authorised signatory's PAN on the GST registration.
Step 1 — Install & run emSigner
Download emSigner from the GST portal's Register DSC page, install it, and run it as Administrator. You should see it running in your system tray (it listens locally on port 1585).
Step 2 — Register the DSC
- Log in to the GST portal and open My Profile → Register / Update DSC.
- Select the authorised signatory's PAN from the dropdown.
- Tick the emSigner confirmation and click Proceed.
- Choose your certificate from the token and enter the token PIN to sign.
- You'll see "DSC registered successfully".
Common errors & fixes
- emSigner not detected: make sure emSigner is running, then open https://127.0.0.1:1585 once in your browser and accept the certificate.
- Certificate not showing: reinstall your token driver (64-bit) and re-insert the token.
- PAN verification failed: the DSC's PAN doesn't match the signatory — register the correct DSC.
Renewed your DSC? After renewal you must re-register it here, and on any other portal where it was registered. See renew a DSC.
Still stuck? Email us — we help our customers get set up.