DIN

Director Identification Number (DIN) is an 8-digit unique identifier allotted by the Central Government (MCA) to every individual who is, or proposes to become, a director of a company. Governed by Sections 153 to 159 of the Companies Act 2013 and Rule 9 of the Companies (Appointment and Qualification of Directors) Rules 2014.

Who needs it:

• Every individual being appointed as a director of any Indian company.
• Designated partners of an LLP need a DPIN (which is now treated identically to DIN under unified MCA systems).
• Foreign nationals being appointed as directors must obtain DIN; apostilled / consularised identity proof is required.

How to obtain:

• For first-time appointment in a new company: applied for as part of SPICe+ (INC-32) incorporation. Up to 3 DINs can be allotted via SPICe+.
• For appointment to an existing company: file Form DIR-3 with the company's board resolution and supporting KYC.
• Fee: ₹500 (per Companies (Registration Offices and Fees) Rules).

Annual KYC — DIR-3 KYC:

Every DIN holder must file DIR-3 KYC annually by September 30. Mobile and email are verified via OTP. Failure deactivates the DIN and attracts a ₹5,000 fee for reactivation. See DIR-3 KYC.

Key restrictions:

• One person can hold only one DIN — Section 155 prohibits duplicate DINs.
• A person can be a director of up to 20 companies (max 10 public companies including dormant) under Section 165.
• Disqualification under Section 164 (e.g., default in MGT-7 / AOC-4 for 3 consecutive years) automatically deactivates the DIN for 5 years.

Pitfall: Founders often delay DIN application for incoming independent directors, missing the appointment window. DIN must be in hand before the board resolution appointing the director.