A Director Identification Number (DIN) is a unique 8-digit identifier issued by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) to any individual who wishes to become a director in an Indian company.
DIN is mandatory for:
- Appointment as a Director in any company
- Filing returns, forms, or documents under the Companies Act
- Acting as a director in one or multiple companies
This Saving Mantra guide explains the complete DIN registration process, eligibility, required documents, and compliance responsibilities.
1. What is DIN and Why Is It Required?
DIN is a permanent number assigned to a person who intends to act as a director. Once issued:
- It never expires
- It stays linked to the individual, even if they change companies
- It ensures transparency and traceability in corporate governance
DIN enables authorities to track a director’s involvement across various companies.
2. Eligibility Criteria for Obtaining DIN
An individual must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be legally competent
- Not be disqualified under the Companies Act
- Provide valid identity and address proof
- Hold a valid Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) (mandatory for e-filing)
Foreign nationals may also apply for DIN with notarized and apostilled documents.
3. Step-by-Step Process for Obtaining DIN
Step 1: Obtain Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
A DSC is required to sign the DIN application electronically.
The applicant must submit:
- PAN (mandatory for Indian citizens)
- Address proof
- Photograph
- Email and mobile verification
Once issued, the DSC is mapped to the applicant’s name.
Step 2: Prepare DIN Application (Form DIR-3)
DIN is applied using Form DIR-3, unless the applicant is a proposed director in a new company (then DIN is allotted through SPICe+ form during incorporation).
In DIR-3, the applicant must enter:
- Full name
- Father’s name
- Date of birth
- Address
- Identity details
- Declaration of non-disqualification
Step 3: Attach Required Documents to DIR-3
Essential attachments include:
- Identity proof (PAN mandatory for Indians; Passport for foreign nationals)
- Address proof (Aadhaar, driving license, voter ID, utility bill)
- Latest photograph
- Declaration signed by the applicant
- Board Resolution proposing the appointment (if applicable)
All documents must be self-attested. Foreign nationals must notarize and apostille.
Step 4: Certification by a Professional
DIR-3 must be digitally certified by a:
- Company Secretary (CS)
- Chartered Accountant (CA)
- Cost Accountant (CMA)
They verify the identity and authenticity of the applicant.
Step 5: Upload DIR-3 on MCA Portal
After preparing the form:
- Log in to the MCA portal
- Upload the DIR-3 form
- Pay the applicable government fee
Once filed successfully, an SRN (Service Request Number) is generated for tracking.
Step 6: MCA Verification & Allotment of DIN
MCA examines the application.
If all details match and documents are clear:
- DIN is allotted within 1–3 working days
- The applicant receives an email confirmation
- The DIN becomes active immediately
If there are discrepancies, MCA may send a resubmission requirement.
4. Documents Required for DIN Application
For Indian Nationals
- PAN Card (mandatory)
- Aadhar / Passport / Voter ID / Driving License
- Latest utility bill or bank statement (address proof)
- Passport-size photograph
For Foreign Nationals
- Passport (mandatory)
- Address proof (must be notarized & apostilled)
- Photograph
Additional Documents
- Declaration by the applicant
- Board Resolution (if applying via DIR-3)
5. DIN Allotment Timelines
| Task | Time |
|---|---|
| DSC issuance | 1 day |
| DIR-3 preparation | 1 day |
| MCA approval | 1–3 days |
Total estimated time: 3–5 working days
6. Post-DIN Compliance Responsibilities
Once DIN is allotted, the director must:
- Use DIN for all MCA filings
- Notify changes in personal details (using DIR-6)
- Update KYC every year through DIR-3 KYC
- Retain login and DIN documents securely
Failure to complete annual DIN KYC leads to deactivation.
7. Common Reasons for DIN Application Rejection
- Mismatch of name with PAN
- Blurry or incomplete documents
- No DSC or expired DSC
- Incorrect birthdate or address
- Missing professional certification
- Improper/notarized documents for foreign nationals
Saving Mantra ensures all documents meet MCA standards to avoid resubmissions.
Conclusion
Obtaining a DIN is the first and most essential step toward becoming a director in India. By following the correct documentation process, validating identity details, and completing MCA filings accurately, the DIN can be obtained quickly and efficiently.
The information provided in this blog is for general informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, tax, or professional advice. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and compliance with the applicable provisions of the Companies Act, 2013 and related rules, laws and regulations may change over time and interpretations may vary based on specific facts and circumstances. All services are subject to applicable laws, rules, and government approvals prevailing at the time of execution.