E-signature vs digital signature vs Aadhaar eSign: which one do you need?
The difference between simple electronic signatures, Digital Signature Certificates (DSC) and Aadhaar eSign in India, and when each one is required.
PDF Sign Editorial·Updated 7 October 2026· 6 min read
Three terms that are often mixed up
In everyday use, “digital signature” and “e-signature” are used interchangeably. Under Indian law they are different things, and knowing which one you need saves time and cost.
Electronic signature (e-signature)
Any electronic method of showing that a person agrees to a document: typing or drawing a signature, clicking to accept, or signing through an e-signature platform. Its strength depends entirely on the evidence around it: how the signer was identified, whether they consented and confirmed intent, and whether the document can be shown to be unchanged.
Platforms such as PDF Sign add that evidence automatically: one-time code verification, consent, an audit trail, a digital seal on the final PDF and trusted timestamps.
Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
A DSC is issued to an individual or organisation by a licensed Certifying Authority after identity verification, usually stored on a USB token. Signing uses the person’s private key, and anyone can verify it against the certificate. DSCs are required for many statutory filings, such as company filings with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs and some tax and tender submissions.
Aadhaar eSign
Aadhaar eSign is an online electronic signature service notified under the IT Act. The signer authenticates with their Aadhaar number and an OTP, and an eSign Service Provider issues a short-lived certificate to sign the document. It is useful where a notified electronic signature is required but the signer has no DSC.
Which one should you use?
- Client contracts, NDAs, offer letters, vendor and service agreements: a secure e-signature with verification and an audit trail.
- Government, regulatory or statutory filings that specify a DSC: a DSC.
- Documents where a notified electronic signature is mandatory and the signer has no DSC: Aadhaar eSign.
- Wills, powers of attorney, property sale deeds: not signable electronically under the First Schedule; use the prescribed physical process.
Frequently asked questions
Does PDF Sign support Aadhaar eSign or DSC?
Not yet. PDF Sign provides secure electronic signatures with identity verification, a PAdES digital seal on the final document and trusted timestamps, which suit the vast majority of commercial agreements.
Is a DSC more “legal” than an e-signature?
Both are legally recognised. A DSC is required where a law prescribes it; for ordinary contracts the deciding factor is the quality of evidence.
This article is general information about Indian law and practice, not legal advice. Speak to a qualified advocate about your situation.