What is DIN and DPIN? A Complete Guide for Directors

DIN stands for Director Identification Number, and DPIN stands for Designated Partner Identification Number. Both are unique eight-digit identification numbers issued by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA). The key difference lies in the entity type: DIN is required for individuals who wish to become directors in a company registered under the Companies Act, 2013, while DPIN is required for individuals who wish to become designated partners in a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) registered under the Limited Liability Partnership Act, 2008.

However, since 2018, the MCA has merged the two systems. A single DIN now serves as both a DIN and a DPIN. If you hold a DIN, you can act as a director in a company and as a designated partner in an LLP without needing a separate DPIN. The MCA's database treats them as interchangeable. The term "DPIN" is still used in the context of LLPs, but the application process and the number itself are the same as for DIN.

Any individual who intends to become a director in a company incorporated under the Companies Act, 2013, must obtain a DIN. This includes directors of private limited companies, public limited companies, one-person companies, and section 8 companies (non-profit). Similarly, any individual who intends to become a designated partner in an LLP must obtain a DIN (which will also serve as their DPIN).

There is no requirement for shareholders, members, or employees who are not directors to hold a DIN. Only individuals who will be appointed as directors or designated partners need to apply. The DIN is a lifetime identification number and does not expire, even if the individual ceases to be a director or designated partner.

The application for a DIN is made online through the MCA portal. The process is straightforward and can be completed by the individual or by a professional (such as a company secretary or chartered accountant) on their behalf. Here are the steps:

1. Access the MCA portal: Go to the MCA website and navigate to the "MCA Services" section.
2. Fill Form DIR-3: This is the application form for allotment of DIN. You will need to provide personal details such as name, father's name, date of birth, gender, nationality, and residential address.
3. Upload supporting documents: You must upload scanned copies of:
   • Proof of identity (e.g., PAN card, Aadhaar card, voter ID, passport, driving license).
   • Proof of residence (e.g., bank statement, utility bill, Aadhaar card).
   • A recent photograph.
   • A specimen signature.
4. Verification: The form must be digitally signed by a practicing professional (company secretary, chartered accountant, or cost accountant) or by a director of an existing company (if the applicant is already associated with one).
5. Payment: Pay the prescribed fee online.
6. Submission: Submit the form. The MCA will process the application and, upon verification, allot the DIN. The DIN is typically issued within 1-2 working days if the documents are in order.

The documents required for a DIN application under Form DIR-3 are:

• Proof of Identity: Any one of the following: PAN card (mandatory for Indian nationals), Aadhaar card, voter ID, passport, driving license. For foreign nationals, a passport is mandatory.
• Proof of Residence: Any one of the following: Aadhaar card, bank statement (not older than 2 months), utility bill (electricity, telephone, gas – not older than 2 months), passport, driving license.
• Photograph: A recent passport-sized photograph.
• Specimen Signature: A scanned copy of the applicant's signature on a blank paper.

All documents must be self-attested by the applicant. If the documents are in a language other than English or Hindi, a certified translation must be provided. For foreign nationals, the documents may need to be notarized or apostilled as per the requirements of the MCA.

If an individual acts as a director in a company without holding a valid DIN, it is a violation of the Companies Act, 2013. Section 153 of the Act mandates that every individual intending to be appointed as a director must apply for a DIN. Failure to comply can result in penalties.

The company and the director may be liable for a fine. Under Section 159, if a person acts as a director without a DIN, the individual is punishable with a fine which may extend to ₹50,000. Additionally, the company may also be penalized. The Registrar of Companies (ROC) can take action, including striking off the company's name from the register or imposing other sanctions. Therefore, it is essential to obtain a DIN before accepting any directorship.

If you are planning to become a director in a company or a designated partner in an LLP, apply for a DIN through the MCA portal. The process is simple and can be completed online. For assistance with the application or to ensure compliance with all requirements, consult a qualified company secretary or chartered accountant.

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This page provides preliminary information. It is not legal advice. For your matter, consult a qualified professional.