Best Digital Signature for eTendering in India Updated 2025

Best Digital Signature for eTendering in India : In today’s digital era, most government and private tenders in India are processed online through eTendering platforms. To participate in these tenders, a valid Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is essential. But the real question is – Which DSC is best for eTendering in 2025?

This guide will help you choose the right DSC step-by-step so that you can submit tenders without confusion.

Why Do You Need a Digital Signature for eTendering?

A Digital Signature Certificate works as your online identity proof, allowing you to securely sign documents electronically. In the eTendering process, DSC is used for:

• Logging in to eTendering portals
• Encrypting bid documents for security
• Signing tender forms for authenticity

Without a valid DSC, you won’t be able to submit bids on major portals like eProcurement, GeM, IREPS, or state government tender sites.

Which Class of DSC is Required for eTendering?

For eTendering in India, Class 3 DSC (Signature + Encryption) is mandatory.

• Signature: For digitally signing documents
• Encryption: For securing tender data

💡 Tip: Even if some portals accept only “Class 3 Signing DSC,” it’s safer to get a Combo DSC (Sign + Encrypt) so that it works across all platforms.

Best DSC Providers for eTendering in India [2025]

Some of the most trusted Certifying Authorities (CAs) for DSC in India are:

1. eMudhra – Widely accepted and reliable
2. VSign – Known for quick issuance
3. Capricorn CA – Affordable and popular
4. ProdigiSign CA – Fast Aadhaar-based DSC process
5. SpeedSign CA – Convenient application process

💡 Always buy DSC from an authorized Registration Authority (RA) for faster processing and genuine after-sales support.

Cost of Best Digital Signature for eTendering in India [2025]

The price of a Class 3 Combo DSC varies based on validity and token type:

• Without USB Token:
  • 1 Year – ₹1,580
  • 2 Years – ₹1,780
  • 3 Years – ₹2,670
• USB Token Prices:
  • mToken – ₹400
  • HYP2003 – ₹500
  • ProxKey – ₹480

Note: Prices may vary slightly depending on the provider.

Read This Article Also – How to Apply Aadhaar Based DSC (Digital Signature) in Prodigisign CA 2025 Guide

How to Apply for a DSC for eTendering (Aadhaar-Based KYC)

1. Choose a trusted CA (e.g., eMudhra, Capricorn, ProdigiSign)
2. Select Class 3 Combo DSC (Sign + Encrypt)
3. Complete KYC via Aadhaar OTP or Video Verification
4. Make payment and submit the application
5. Download & install the DSC on your USB Token

FAQs – Best Digital Signature for eTendering

Q1: Can I use a Class 2 DSC for eTendering?
A: No, Class 2 DSCs are discontinued. Only Class 3 DSC is valid.

Q2: Which DSC is accepted on the GeM portal?
A: GeM accepts Class 3 Signing DSC, but a Combo DSC is better for multiple portals.

Q3: How long does DSC issuance take?
A: With Aadhaar-based KYC, it usually takes 15–30 minutes.

Q4: Is a USB Token necessary?
A: Yes, DSC must be stored in a secure cryptographic USB Token as per Indian IT Act.

Q5: Can I renew DSC online?
A: Yes, most CAs allow online renewal via Aadhaar OTP or video KYC.

Conclusion

For eTendering in India, the best choice in 2025 is a Class 3 Combo DSC (Sign + Encrypt) from a trusted provider like eMudhra, Capricorn, or ProdigiSign. Always purchase from authorized sources to avoid technical or legal issues while bidding.

By choosing the right DSC, you can ensure a smooth, secure, and hassle-free tendering experience.