Can We Download DSC in Old Token in 2025-26? Here it is True Information.

Introduction

Can We Download DSC in Old Token in 2025-26? Here it is True Information.

One of the most common questions I get from clients is:

👉 “Can I download a new Digital Signature Certificate in my old token?”
👉 “Can DSC tokens be reused, or do I always need to buy a new one?”

This doubt makes sense. A DSC expires after 1, 2, or 3 years, but the USB token itself often looks perfectly fine. So naturally, many people want to reuse it instead of spending money on a new one.

The answer, however, depends on whether your token belongs to the new series USB Token or the old series. Since 1st July 2023, the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA) has officially discontinued old series tokens.

In this blog, I’ll explain:

• Whether old tokens can still be reused
• How to identify old vs new tokens
• Which serial number series are supported
• My personal experience helping clients with this exact issue

Can We Download DSC in Old Token?

Yes — but only if the token belongs to the new serial number series.

⚠️ Since 1st July 2023, CCA has restricted the reuse of old tokens. If your token falls under the discontinued old series, you cannot use it for new DSC downloads, no matter if the device is in good condition.

Token Serial Number Rules for Reuse

Here’s how you can identify whether your USB token can be reused:

• HYP2003 Token
  • ✅ Reusable if serial number starts with HS
  • Example: HS2A2DE2D2E1DD3S1ESS
• Watchdata ProxKey Token
  • ✅ Reusable if serial number starts with WD
  • Example: WDSBD23643
• mToken
  • ✅ Reusable if serial number starts with CL
  • Example: CL23A6FDE…

❌ If your token does not start with HS, WD, or CL → it’s an old series token and cannot be reused after July 2023.

How to Find Which is Old Token and Which is New?

Many people don’t know how to identify whether their token is old or new. Here’s a simple way:

1. Insert the token into your computer
2. Open the token driver/software (HYP2003, ProxKey, or mToken tool)
3. Look at the token serial number in the software/device info
4. Match the prefix:
   • HS → HYP2003 New Token (Reusable)
   • WD → Watchdata ProxKey New Token (Reusable)
   • CL → mToken New Token (Reusable)
   • Anything else → Old Token (Not reusable since July 2023)

This quick check will immediately tell you if your token can be reused.

Old Token vs New Token – Quick Comparison

Why Did CCA Discontinue Old Tokens?

The main reason is security. Old-generation tokens were based on outdated cryptographic technology, which didn’t meet modern compliance requirements.

By discontinuing them from 1st July 2023, CCA ensured that only new, secure, and standardized tokens are used for DSC issuance and signing.

My Personal Experience

I’ve helped many clients with this exact issue, and I’ve seen both sides of the story:

• Case 1 – Successful Reuse:
  One client had a HYP2003 token with serial number starting from HS. We updated the drivers, reused the token, and successfully downloaded the new DSC — saving them about ₹600.
• Case 2 – Not Reusable:
  Another client brought an old ProxKey token whose serial number didn’t start with WD. Because of the July 2023 rule, it couldn’t be reused, and we had to issue a brand-new token.

This is why I always tell clients: don’t assume all tokens can be reused — check the serial number first.

Can DSC Be Used Without Token?

No. A DSC cannot be used without a token. The USB token ensures encryption, secure storage, and legal validity. While Aadhaar eSign is available on some government portals, it is not a replacement for a DSC stored in a token.

FAQs

Q1. How do I know if my token is old or new?
👉 Check the serial number. HS (HYP2003), WD (ProxKey), CL (mToken) = new. Anything else = old.

Q2. Can DSC token be reused for a new certificate?
👉 Yes, but only if it belongs to the new series.

Q3. What changed after July 2023?
👉 CCA discontinued old serial number tokens. Only new series tokens are valid now.

Q4. Can I use DSC without token?
👉 No, a token is mandatory for DSC usage.

Conclusion

So, can you download DSC in an old token?

✔ Yes, if it belongs to the new series (HS / WD / CL).
❌ No, if it’s from the old series, because CCA discontinued them from 1st July 2023.

From my personal experience, checking the serial number of your USB token is the simplest way to know whether you can reuse it or not. This one small step will save you time, money, and avoid unnecessary confusion.