In today’s era of digital governance, government departments, public-sector undertakings, and private organizations have moved their procurement processes online. e-Tendering, or electronic tendering, ensures transparency, speed, and fairness in awarding contracts.

But to participate in these online bids, every contractor, supplier, and vendor must use Digital Signature Certificates — a secure, legally recognized identity for online transactions.

This guide will help you understand why you need a Digital Signature Certificate for Tender, its types, and how to easily apply through MeraDSC, one of India’s most trusted providers.

What Is a Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)?

A Digital Signature Certificate is an encrypted electronic credential that verifies your identity while conducting business online. It’s issued by a Certifying Authority (CA) authorized by the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA), Government of India.

A DSC ensures that your tender documents are authentic, tamper-proof, and legally valid. When you upload or sign a bid using your DSC, it acts as your digital identity proof, guaranteeing that the submission is genuine and not altered after signing.

For tendering and e-bidding, a Class 3 DSC is mandatory, as it offers the highest level of security and encryption.

Why You Need a Digital Signature Certificate for e-Tendering

All government e-procurement portals, including GeM, NIC, IREPS, IRCTC, Bharat Electronics, ONGC, NTPC, and Indian Railways, require a valid Class 3 DSC for login, document submission, and online signing of bids.

A DSC is essential for the following reasons:

• Identity Authentication: Confirms that the bidder is genuine.
• Data Integrity: Ensures the document hasn’t been tampered with post-submission.
• Confidentiality: Sensitive business and price details remain encrypted.
• Legal Validity: DSCs are recognized under the Information Technology Act, 2000, giving them the same status as physical signatures.

Without a valid DSC, your tender submissions are automatically rejected by most portals.

Types of Digital Signature Certificates Used for Tender

1. Class 3 Individual DSC

Issued to individuals who submit bids on behalf of themselves or an organization. Commonly used by consultants, independent contractors, or proprietors.

2. Class 3 Organization DSC

Issued in the name of a company or firm. Authorized signatories, directors, or employees use it for e-Tender submissions, contract signing, and e-procurement.

Both versions are accepted on major tender portals such as IREPS (Indian Railways e-Procurement System), IRCTC (Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation), and GeM (Government e-Marketplace).

DSC for IREPS and IRCTC Tenders

Digital Signature Certificate for IREPS

The Indian Railways e-Procurement System (IREPS) handles tenders worth thousands of crores annually. To participate in any IREPS tender, bidders must log in using a Class 3 DSC registered in their name.

A valid DSC allows you to:

• Register and log in on IREPS.gov.in
• Submit electronic bids securely
• Sign uploaded tender documents digitally
• Track tender status and communications online

Without a valid DSC, you cannot complete any step of the bidding process.

Digital Signature for IRCTC

For IRCTC tenders related to catering, tourism, or e-auction activities, a Digital Signature for IRCTC is mandatory. With your Class 3 DSC, you can:

• Apply for IRCTC catering or tourism contracts
• Upload and sign tender documents
• Verify bidder identity during the submission process
• Access IRCTC vendor dashboards securely

MeraDSC provides pre-configured DSCs compatible with both IREPS and IRCTC systems, ensuring smooth integration and approval.

How to Apply for a DSC for Tender with MeraDSC

Applying for a Digital Signature Certificate for Tender through MeraDSC is fast, simple, and completely online. Here’s the step-by-step process:

Step 1: Prepare Required Documents

Keep the following ready:

• PAN Card (mandatory for all applicants)
• Aadhaar Card or Voter ID
• Passport-size Photo
• Active Email ID & Mobile Number
• For organization DSCs: Company PAN and Authorization Letter

Step 2: Choose Certificate Type

• Individual DSC (for personal e-Tender participation)
• Organization DSC (for company-based tenders)

Step 3: Submit Application Online

Visit www.meradsc.com or email your documents to info@meradsc.com. Fill in your details and upload the required files.

Step 4: Complete Video Verification

For security and CCA compliance, you’ll undergo a short online video verification to confirm identity.

Step 5: Receive Your DSC

Once verified, your Class 3 DSC will be issued instantly. You’ll receive it in a secure USB token, ready for use on e-tendering portals like IREPS, IRCTC, NIC, or GeM.

Key Benefits of Getting Your DSC from MeraDSC

MeraDSC is an authorized Digital Signature Certificate Provider under the CCA, Government of India, trusted by businesses nationwide.

Here’s why customers prefer MeraDSC:

✅ Authorized Partner – Works with Capricorn, Care4Sign, ProDigiSign & eMudhra

⚡ Fast Issuance – Same-day DSC approval & token delivery

???? 100% Paperless – Online document upload & video verification

???? 24×7 Support – Assistance with installation & portal setup

???? Secure & Compliant – Hardware tokens and encrypted signing

Whether you’re bidding for railways, government departments, or public contracts, MeraDSC ensures your digital identity is verified and compliant.

Renewing Your Digital Signature Certificate

A DSC is valid for 1, 2, or 3 years, depending on your subscription plan. After expiry, it must be renewed to continue e-tender participation.

DSC Renewal is quick with MeraDSC:

• Visit our portal and choose the renewal option.
• Verify identity via OTP or video.
• Receive your renewed DSC instantly.

Timely renewal prevents tender login issues and rejection during submission.

Final Thoughts

A Digital Signature Certificate for Tender isn’t just a technical requirement — it’s your gateway to India’s digital procurement ecosystem. It gives you credibility, security, and access to thousands of government and corporate contracts.

With MeraDSC, getting your DSC for Tender, IREPS, or IRCTC is easier than ever. Our fast, paperless, and government-approved process ensures that your e-bidding experience is secure, compliant, and hassle-free.