How To Get Director Identification (DIN) Number?

Stepping in as a company director in India isn’t just a career milestone; it’s a legal responsibility. The first step would be obtaining a Director Identification Number (DIN), a unique, Central Government-issued number, under the Companies Act, 2013, serving as a permanent identifier for directors under the corporate regulatory framework. Whether you are launching a startup, joining a board, or transitioning into executive leadership, securing a DIN is your first step toward lawful governance. Yet, navigating the process can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time applicants, professionals, or foreign nationals. This guide breaks down the DIN process with clarity and legal precision. From eligibility and documentation to application procedures through SPICe+ and DIR-3, and including post-approval compliance like KYC and DIN status checks, this blog walks you through every step. Whether you’re unsure where to begin or simply want to avoid costly mistakes, this blog ensures you proceed with confidence and compliance.

What This Blog Covers:

• Meaning, purpose, and legal mandate of the DIN
• Eligibility requirements
• Benefits of holding a DIN
• Key prerequisites before applying
• Documents required for Indian and foreign applicants
• Step-by-step DIN application process via SPICe+ and DIR-3
• Associated DIN forms and their specific purposes
• Government fee structure, processing time, and rejection scenarios
• How to check DIN status and download the DIN certificate?
• Process for activating, cancelling, or surrendering a DIN
• Common filing mistakes and how to ensure a compliant application

What Is A Director Identification Number (DIN)?

A Director Identification Number (DIN) is a unique 8-digit numeric code issued by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), Government of India, to any individual intending to be appointed as a director in a company registered under the Companies Act, 2013. The DIN is person-specific identification and remains valid for a lifetime, regardless of the number of companies the individual serves. Introduced under Section 266A of the Companies Act, 1956, and later codified under Sections 153 and 154 of the Companies Act, 2013, the DIN is a statutory requirement for any directorial appointment in India. It must be quoted in all official filings made by the director with the Registrar of Companies (ROC), including annual returns, board resolutions, and change of directorship forms.

Purpose and Legal Relevance

The DIN system was created to promote corporate transparency, ensure regulatory oversight, and enable accountability across India’s corporate sector. Its key objectives include:

• Establishing a centralised database of company directors
• Preventing impersonation and fraudulent appointments
• Enabling MCA and other authorities to track an individual’s directorial history across multiple companies
• Supporting the enforcement of director disqualifications and compliance tracking

By mandating a DIN, the government ensures that no individual can act as a director without being uniquely and permanently identifiable under law.

Why DIN Is Mandatory?

As per Section 152(3) of the Companies Act, 2013:

“No person shall be appointed as a director of a company unless he has been allotted a Director Identification Number under section 154.”

This means:

• A DIN is compulsory before any directorial appointment
• It is a legal prerequisite for participating in board decisions and regulatory filings
• It enables the detection of fraud, disqualifications, or misuse of directorships across entities

Note: The DIN is a foundational compliance requirement in India’s corporate legal framework, essential not just for identification, but for maintaining the integrity of corporate governance.

Who Needs A DIN?

Understanding who is legally required to obtain a Director Identification Number (DIN) is crucial for compliance under the Companies Act, 2013. A DIN is not limited to founders or managing directors, it is mandatory for any individual intending to act in a directorial capacity in an Indian company or LLP.

Eligibility Criteria for Obtaining a DIN

As per Section 153 of the Companies Act, 2013 and the Companies (Appointment and Qualification of Directors) Rules, 2014, the following conditions must be satisfied:

• Natural Person Only: DIN can only be issued to individuals. Entities such as companies or LLPs are not eligible.
• Minimum Age: The applicant must be at least 18 years old. There is no upper age limit.
• Nationality: Both Indian and foreign nationals are eligible. However, foreign nationals from countries sharing land borders with India must obtain prior approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs, as per FEMA and MCA circulars.
• Valid Identity Proof:
• • Indian citizens must have a valid PAN
  • Foreign nationals must have a valid passport
• Digital Signature Certificate (DSC): A DSC issued by a licensed certifying authority in India is mandatory for signing the application.
• One DIN: An individual is legally permitted to hold only one active DIN. Holding multiple DINs is a punishable offence under Section 155 of the Companies Act, 2013.

When a DIN Is Required?

A DIN is legally required in the following situations:

1. Company Incorporation: DIN is allotted to up to three first-time directors through the SPICe+ form during new company registration.
2. Appointment in an Existing Company: If an individual without a DIN is appointed as a director in an existing company, they must first obtain one via Form DIR-3.
3. Designated Partner in an LLP: DIN or DPIN is mandatory for designated partners under Section 7 of the LLP Act, 2008. DIN and DPIN have now been integrated.
4. ROC Filings and Approvals: DIN must be quoted in all filings signed by a director, such as:
5. • MGT-7 (Annual Return)
   • AOC-4 (Financial Statements)
   • DIR-12 (Appointment or resignation of directors)

The forms can be downloaded from the MCA portal.

5. Annual DIN KYC Compliance: Every DIN holder must file DIR-3 KYC annually. Failure to comply results in deactivation and attracts a ₹5,000 penalty.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Acting as a director without a DIN is a serious offence under Section 159 of the Companies Act, 2013, and can result in:

• A fine of ₹50,000, and
• An additional ₹500 per day of continued default (up to ₹5 lakh)

Also Read : How to Register a Limited Liability Partnership?

Benefits Of Having A DIN

The Director Identification Number (DIN) is more than just a legal formality, it is a vital pillar of India’s corporate governance and compliance ecosystem. Introduced under the Companies Act, 2006, and continued under the Companies Act, 2013, DIN ensures every director is uniquely identified, accountable, and traceable across corporate entities.

1. Legal Recognition and Mandatory Compliance

• A DIN is mandatory under Section 152(3) read with Section 154 of the Companies Act, 2013. No individual can be appointed as a director without it.
• It must be quoted in ROC filings like MGT-7, AOC-4, and DIR-12.
• Without a valid DIN, the appointment is void and attracts penalties under Section 159.

2. Permanent, Person-Specific Identification

• DIN is a one-time allotment valid for the lifetime of the individual. It is not linked to any specific company, which means the same DIN can be used for holding directorships in multiple companies or LLPs.
• This prevents duplication and impersonation while ensuring continuity of identity across corporate engagements.

3. Corporate Transparency and Regulatory Oversight

• The MCA maintains a centralised database of all DIN holders.
• This facilitates easy tracking of a director's associations across companies, helps identify disqualified directors, and allows regulatory authorities (including SEBI, Income Tax Department, and SFIO) to conduct due diligence.
• It is a key component in combating shell companies, proxy/ fictitious directorships, and fraudulent corporate practices.

4. Essential for Statutory Filings and Director Lifecycle Events

A DIN is required for signing all major ROC filings, including:

• DIR-12 (appointment/resignation of directors)
• MGT-7 (annual return)
• AOC-4 (financial statements)
• DIR-3 KYC (annual KYC for directors)

Without an active DIN, these filings will be rejected, jeopardising the company’s compliance status.

5. Integrated Use in LLPs (DPIN Unification)

• Since 2018, DIN has been integrated with DPIN (Designated Partner Identification Number) for LLPs. A single DIN suffices for acting as a director in a company and as a designated partner in an LLP.
• This consolidation simplifies the compliance framework for professionals operating across business formats.

6. Strengthening Director Accountability

• DIN reinforces director accountability by making each individual traceable across all companies they are associated with.
• It prevents individuals from masking their identities across corporate structures, especially in cases of fraud, disqualification under Section 164, or prosecution under Section 447 (fraud).

7. Enhancing Investor and Stakeholder Confidence

• Transparent disclosure of directorships, backed by the DIN framework, helps build investor trust.
• Banks, regulators, venture capitalists, and institutional investors rely on the DIN system to assess the governance and legal standing of company boards.

Prerequisites Before Applying For A DIN

Before submitting a DIN (Director Identification Number) application, certain legal and procedural prerequisites must be met. These conditions are not just formalities but mandatory compliance steps under the Companies Act, 2013 and MCA regulations. Ensuring these are in place will prevent unnecessary delays or rejections.

1. Intention to Hold a Directorship

• DIN is issued only to individuals intending to be appointed as directors of a company or designated partners in an LLP.
• It is not granted for general purposes or to entities such as firms or corporations.
• The applicant must be a natural person, competent to contract, and not disqualified under Section 164 of the Companies Act, 2013.

2. Valid Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)

A Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is essential to file the DIN application electronically through the MCA portal. The applicant must:

• Obtain a Class 3 DSC from a Certifying Authority licensed by the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA), Government of India.
• Ensure the DSC is active, issued in the applicant’s name, and registered with the MCA portal.
• Use the DSC to digitally sign the application form (SPICe+ or DIR-3).

3. Identity and Address Proofs

Documentary proof is required to establish the applicant’s identity and current residential address.

For Indian Nationals:

• Identity Proof: PAN Card (Mandatory under Rule 9(1) of the Companies (Appointment and Qualification of Directors) Rules, 2014)
• Address Proof: Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID, Driving License, Utility Bill, or Bank Statement (not older than 2 months)

For Foreign Nationals:

• Identity Proof: Passport (Mandatory)
• Address Proof: Government-issued document or bank statement, duly notarised/apostilled as per Hague Convention or consularised

Certification Requirements:

• All documents must be self-attested by the applicant.
• For DIR-3, they must also be certified by a practising professional (CA/CS/CMA).
• For foreign applicants, additional consular/legal attestations may apply.

4. Recent Passport-Size Photograph

A recent passport-sized colour photograph must be scanned and embedded in the application form. It should:

• Have a clear background
• Be in JPG or JPEG format
• Reflect the current appearance of the applicant

5. Engagement of a Practising Professional

The DIN form (particularly DIR-3) must be digitally certified by a practising:

• Chartered Accountant (CA)
• Company Secretary (CS)
• Cost and Works Accountant (CMA)

Their signature is mandatory for DIN approval through DIR-3.

6. Company-Related Documents (For DIR-3 Applications Only)

Applicants joining an existing company must provide:

• The company’s CIN (Corporate Identification Number)
• A board resolution (certified true copy) proposing the applicant’s appointment as director
• The name and designation of the authorised signatory who has approved the DIN request

This resolution is not required for DINs obtained via SPICe+ during incorporation.

7. Functional Email ID and Mobile Number

A valid email ID and mobile number (unique to the applicant) are required for:

• OTP-based authentication during DSC issuance
• MCA form submission and verification
• Future correspondence for DIN-related updates and annual KYC filings

8. No Existing DIN

Under Section 155 of the Companies Act, 2013, no individual can hold more than one DIN. Applying for a second DIN may lead to:

• Immediate rejection of the application
• Penalty up to ₹50,000
• Potential disqualification under Section 164 if misrepresentation is found

Before filing a new request, applicants are advised to verify their DIN status using the Verify DIN tool on the MCA portal.

Essential Documents Required For Din Application

To apply for a Director Identification Number (DIN) under the Companies Act, 2013, the following documents are mandatory:

1. Identity Proof:
2. • Indian Nationals: PAN Card (mandatory, must match MCA records).
   • Foreign Nationals: Passport (notarised/apostilled, depending on the country).
2. Address Proof: Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID, Driving License, recent bank statement, or utility bill.
3. • Indian applicants must self-attest documents.
   • Foreign nationals require notarised/apostilled copies.
3. Photograph: A recent, colour passport-size photo with a white background, digitally uploaded in the DIN form.
4. Digital Signature Certificate (DSC): Required for the applicant and certifying professional (CA/CS/CMA) to sign the e-form.
5. Board Resolution (DIR-3 route only): A certified resolution authorising the applicant’s appointment as director.
6. Declaration: Applicant must declare they are not disqualified under law (auto-included in e-form).
7. Professional Certification: A practising CA/CS/CMA must certify all documents and the applicant’s eligibility.

Also Read : What Are the Documents Required for Startup India DPIIT Registration?

How To Apply For A DIN Number ?

A Director Identification Number (DIN) is a statutory requirement under Section 153 of the Companies Act, 2013. It is mandatory for any individual intending to be appointed as a director in an Indian company. DIN can be obtained via two legally recognised methods, depending on the context of the appointment:

Option 1: Via SPICe+ Form – For New Company Incorporation

Where a company is being incorporated and the proposed directors do not already possess DINs, the application must be made through the SPICe+ (INC-32) integrated web form, as prescribed under Rule 38 of the Companies (Incorporation) Rules, 2014.

Applicability

• Applicable only at the time of incorporating a new company.
• For individuals who do not already hold a DIN.
• DINs for up to three individuals (five in case of Producer Companies) can be allotted in one application.

Procedural Steps

1. Access MCA Portal: Navigate to www.mca.gov.in and register or log in.
2. Initiate SPICe+ Form: Under ‘MCA Services’, select ‘Company e-Filing’, under ‘Incorporation & Change service’, select SPICe+ and initiate a new application.
3. Fill Part A: Reserve the company name under the RUN (Reserve Unique Name) facility.
4. Fill Part B: Provide incorporation details and select the option to apply for DINs for the proposed directors.

1. Upload Supporting Documents:
2. • PAN, Aadhaar, or Passport of the proposed directors.
   • Address proof (not older than two months).
   • Passport-size photograph.
   • Form DIR-2 (Consent to Act as Director).
2. Digital Signatures:
3. • Affix the DSC of all directors.
   • Certify the form with the DSC of a practising Chartered Accountant, Company Secretary, or Cost Accountant.
3. Submission and Payment:
4. • Submit the form electronically and pay the applicable incorporation fee.
   • Upon approval, the MCA issues a Certificate of Incorporation and simultaneously allots DINs.

Note: DIN allotment through SPICe+ is only available for individuals applying for the first time. Individuals with an existing DIN must not use this route.

Option 2: Via DIR-3 Form – For Appointment in Existing Companies

If an individual is being appointed as a director in an already incorporated company and does not possess a DIN, the application must be made using Form DIR-3, under Rule 9(1) of the Companies (Appointment and Qualification of Directors) Rules, 2014.

Applicability

• The individual is being proposed as a director in an existing company.
• The applicant does not already have a DIN.
• The company must have passed a Board Resolution approving the proposed appointment.

Procedural Steps

1. Digital Signature Certificate: Obtain a valid DSC before initiating the application.
2. Access and Download DIR-3: Under ‘MCA Services’, select ‘Company e-Filing’, under ‘DIN Related Forms’, select DIR-3 and initiate a new application.
3. Filling the Form: Enter personal details such as name, date of birth, PAN, contact details, nationality, and residential status.

1. Attach Supporting Documents:
2. • Self-attested copies of PAN (mandatory for Indian citizens), passport (mandatory for foreign nationals), and address proof.
   • Passport-size photograph.
   • Certified copy of the Board Resolution proposing the appointment.
2. Digital Signatures and Certification:
3. • Applicant must digitally sign the form.
   • A practising professional (CA/CS/CMA) must verify and certify the form using their DSC.
3. Submission and Payment:
4. • Upload the signed form on the MCA portal.
   • Pay the prescribed statutory fee
4. Verification and Approval:
5. • Upon successful verification by the Central Registration Centre (CRC), a DIN is issued within 1–3 business days.
   • In case of discrepancies, a rejection email is issued with reasons for resubmission.

Other Forms Associated with DIN

Beyond the primary forms used for DIN allotment, SPICe+ (for new incorporations) and DIR-3 (for existing company appointments), there are several DIN-linked compliance forms under the Companies Act, 2013. Directors and companies must remain aware of these to ensure full statutory compliance throughout the director’s tenure.

Fees and Timeline for DIN Application

Before applying for a Director Identification Number (DIN), it is important to understand the associated government fees and the expected processing time. This helps applicants avoid delays, budget for professional charges, and ensure timely compliance with MCA norms.

1. Government Fees: DIN fees vary depending on how the application is submitted:

• Payment Mode: All government fees must be paid online via the MCA portal.

Note: Additional costs such as Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) charges and professional certification fees (CA/CS/CMA) may apply.

2. Processing Timeline: Once the DIN application is filed, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) generally processes it within the following timeframe.

• On successful processing, the DIN allotment letter can be downloaded from the MCA portal.
• If rejected, the MCA will communicate the reason via email, and rectification or resubmission may be required.

3. Common Reasons for DIN Application Rejection

DIN applications may be rejected if they fail to meet documentation or technical standards. Below are the most frequent reasons for rejection.

• Mismatched Personal Details: Discrepancies in the applicant’s name, date of birth, or address between the DIN form and supporting documents like PAN, Aadhaar, or passport.
• Blurred or Illegible Documents: Poor-quality or unclear scans of identity/address proofs make verification difficult and often result in rejection.
• Missing or Invalid Digital Signature: Absence of the required Digital Signature Certificate (DSC), or use of an expired or uncertified DSC.
• Expired Address Proof: Address proofs older than two months are not accepted by the MCA.
• Duplicate DIN Application: If an applicant already holds a DIN, filing for another one violates Section 155 of the Companies Act, 2013 and leads to automatic rejection.

Tip: To avoid rejection, cross-check all personal details for consistency, ensure all documents are clear and valid, and use a current, professionally certified DSC. Always use the correct and updated version of the form while filing.

How to Check DIN Status

After applying for a Director Identification Number (DIN) through either SPICe+ or Form DIR-3, it is important to track the application status, download the DIN allotment letter (if approved), or respond promptly in case of rejection.

1. Checking DIN Status on the MCA Portal

Applicants can verify their DIN status directly through the MCA website using the following steps:

• Visit the official MCA portal: www.mca.gov.in.
• Navigate to ‘MCA Services’ > ‘FO Services’ > ‘Enquire DIN Status’.

• Enter the 8-digit DIN number and hit Submit.

• The portal will display the current DIN status, such as “Approved”, “Pending for Approval”, “Rejected”, or “Deactivated”.

This method also allows users to check the DIN status of other directors for compliance or due diligence purposes.

2. DIN Approval or Rejection Email from MCA

Once the DIN application is processed, the MCA sends an email to the applicant’s registered email ID and to the certifying professional (if applicable). The subject line typically states:

• For approvals: “DIN Allotted under Form DIR-3/SPICe+”
• For rejections: “DIN Application Rejected – Reason Attached” or “Resubmission Required”

The email contains the following details:

• DIN number and applicant name (if approved)
• Reference number of the submitted form
• Specific reasons for rejection (e.g., document mismatch, invalid DSC, expired proofs)
• Instructions for rectification and resubmission within the prescribed time, usually 15 days

These emails serve as official communication from MCA and should be retained for future reference.

3. To Download a DIN Certificate
   Note: The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) does not issue a physical or downloadable DIN certificate.
   Instead, once the DIN is approved:
4. • An official approval email is sent to the registered email ID used in the application.
   • This email contains the allotted DIN and serves as valid proof of DIN allotment.
   • There is no separate DIN certificate or allotment letter available for download on the MCA portal.

How To Activate Or Cancel A DIN

A Director Identification Number (DIN) must be kept active through regular compliance. It can also be cancelled or surrendered under specific conditions as per the Companies Act, 2013 and relevant MCA rules.

A. How to Activate a DIN

1. File DIR-3 KYC Annually

• Every DIN holder must file Form DIR-3 KYC by the due date (usually 30th September each year).
• Non-filing results in DIN deactivation with the remark: “Deactivated due to non-filing of KYC.”

2. Reactivation Procedure

• File DIR-3 KYC through the MCA portal using the director’s Digital Signature Certificate (DSC).
• Complete OTP verification (linked to registered email and mobile).
• Pay a late filing penalty of ₹5,000 (if applicable).
• On successful submission, the DIN is automatically reactivated.

3. Other Grounds for Deactivation

• Failure to update personal details through Form DIR-6.
• Legal disqualification or regulatory order from the ROC or NCLT.

B. How to Cancel or Surrender a DIN

DIN can be cancelled either voluntarily or by regulatory action. Rule 11 of the Companies (Appointment and Qualification of Directors) Rules, 2014, governs this process.

1. Voluntary Surrender (via Form DIR-5): A DIN holder may surrender a DIN on the following grounds:

• Duplicate DIN allotted in error.
• DIN was never used in any company filings.
• The person never became a director.
• The director is deceased (filed by legal heir or company).

2. Mandatory Cancellation by MCA: DIN may be cancelled by the MCA in these cases:

• Fraudulent or wrongful allotment.
• Duplicate issuance.
• Death of DIN holder (upon valid proof).
• Disqualification due to insolvency or unsoundness of mind.

3. Cancellation Procedure

• File Form DIR-5 with:
• • Reason for surrender.
  • Self-attested copy of PAN, Aadhaar, and DIN allotment letter.
  • Declaration confirming non-usage of the DIN (or disclosure of all companies where it was used).
  • Death certificate and legal heir statement (if applicable).
• Get the form digitally signed and certified by a practising CA/CS/CMA.
• Upload the form through the MCA portal for processing.

Common Mistakes To Avoid While Applying For DIN

While applying for a Director Identification Number (DIN), even minor errors can lead to delays, rejections, or legal non-compliance. Below is a streamlined list of the most frequent mistakes and how to avoid them effectively.

1. Mismatch in Name or Date of Birth

• DIN applications are frequently rejected due to inconsistencies in name, father's name, or date of birth between PAN, Aadhaar, passport, and the application form.
• Spelling errors, use of initials, or different formats across documents are common issues.

Tip: Ensure all details in the application match exactly with your PAN or passport. Avoid abbreviations or inconsistent formats.

2. Blurred, Expired, or Illegible Documents

• Scans that are low-resolution, unclear, or cropped lead to application rejection.
• Address proofs older than 2 months are not accepted.

Tip: Upload high-resolution scans and use recent and valid ID/address proofs such as utility bills or bank statements.

3. Invalid or Expired Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)

• Filing without a valid DSC or using an expired/unregistered DSC renders the application invalid.
• Both the applicant and the certifying professional (CA/CS/CMA) must digitally sign the form.

Tip: Use an active DSC connected to your PAN, and ensure it's registered on the MCA portal.

4. Attempting to Obtain Multiple DINs

• As per Section 155 of the Companies Act, 2013, an individual is legally permitted to hold only one DIN.
• Submitting multiple DIN applications (especially through SPICe+ without verification) can lead to cancellation and penalties.

Tip: Use the "Verify DIN PAN Details of Director" feature on the MCA portal to check if you already have a DIN approval.

5. Using Outdated Forms or Software

• DIN forms (SPICe+, DIR-3, DIR-5) are periodically updated by MCA.
• Outdated forms or unsupported versions of PDF software may trigger validation errors.

Tip: Download the latest forms from the MCA portal and fill them using the most recent version of Adobe Acrobat Reader.

6. Incomplete or Improper Professional Certification

• DIN applications must be certified by a practising professional (CA/CS/CMA).
• Errors include incorrect details, a lack of Certificate of Practice (CoP), or a missing DSC of the professional.

Tip: Engage a valid, practising professional and ensure all credentials and signatures are properly included.

7. Ignoring Annual DIR-3 KYC Filing

• All DIN holders must file Form DIR-3 KYC by 30th September annually.
• Failure to do so leads to DIN deactivation and a penalty of ₹5,000.

Tip: Mark the KYC deadline on your calendar even if you're not actively serving as a director.

8. Incorrect Fee Payment or Incomplete Submission

• Skipping government fees, uploading incomplete forms, or submitting documents without required signatures results in rejection.

Tip: Verify payment confirmation, ensure form completeness, and check for required attachments before submission.

Conclusion

Securing a Director Identification Number (DIN) is more than a regulatory formality, it marks the beginning of your journey as a responsible leader in the corporate world. Governed by the Companies Act, 2013, the DIN system upholds transparency, accountability, and legal traceability across India's business landscape.

Whether you're incorporating a startup or stepping into a directorial role in an existing company, obtaining a DIN through SPICe+ or Form DIR-3 is a critical first step. But the responsibility doesn’t end at allotment; timely KYC filing, accurate updates, and professional certification are essential to keep your DIN active and valid. A DIN is not just a number; it’s your official identity in the eyes of corporate law and a mark of your commitment to good governance.