A Director Identification Number (DIN) is a unique 8-digit number allotted by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs to any individual who intends to become a director of a company. It stays with the person for life and is used across all companies they are associated with.
This guide explains what a DIN is, how to apply for one via SPICe+ (for new companies) or Form DIR-3 (for existing companies), the documents needed, and the ongoing KYC obligation.
What is DIN (Director Identification Number)?
A DIN identifies a director uniquely so that the MCA can track directorships across companies. It is mandatory to hold a valid DIN before being appointed as a director.
For a new company, DINs (up to three) are allotted through the SPICe+ incorporation form. For appointment to an existing company, the individual applies via Form DIR-3.
| Issued by | Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) |
|---|---|
| Format | 8-digit unique number |
| Validity | Lifetime (subject to annual DIR-3 KYC) |
| New company route | SPICe+ form |
| Existing company route | Form DIR-3 |
Eligibility
- Any individual (Indian or foreign) proposing to be a director
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Must have a valid DSC to sign the application
Documents required
- PAN card (mandatory for Indian nationals)
- Passport (mandatory for foreign nationals)
- Aadhaar or address proof
- Passport-size photograph
- Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
- Attestation by a practising professional (CA/CS/CMA) or company director
Step-by-step process
- Obtain a DSC. Get a Class 3 DSC for the applicant, as the DIN form must be digitally signed.
- Fill Form DIR-3. For an existing company, complete Form DIR-3 on the MCA portal with personal details and proofs. For a new company, DIN is applied within SPICe+.
- Attach documents & attest. Attach identity/address proof; the form is attested by a practising professional or an existing director of the company.
- Pay the fee and submit. Pay the government fee and submit the form for MCA approval.
- Receive the DIN. On approval, the DIN is allotted and communicated by the MCA.
Penalties for non-compliance
- Acting as a director without a valid DIN can attract penalties under the Companies Act, 2013
- Failing to complete annual DIR-3 KYC deactivates the DIN and attracts a ₹5,000 reactivation fee
Frequently asked questions
Can one person have more than one DIN?
No. An individual can hold only one DIN for life. Holding multiple DINs is an offence and the extra ones must be surrendered.
How many DINs can be applied through SPICe+?
Up to three DINs can be applied for through the SPICe+ incorporation form for new directors of the company being formed.
Is DIN the same as DPIN?
For LLPs the equivalent is the Designated Partner Identification Number (DPIN), but DIN and DPIN have been unified — a DIN serves both purposes.