DIN (Director Identification Number): Definition, Meaning & Guide for Indian Businesses

DIN is the 8-digit unique identifier issued by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs to every director of a company in India. Required before being appointed to any board.

What is DIN (Director Identification Number)?

Director Identification Number is mandatory for any person being appointed as a director of an Indian company. Apply via Form DIR-3 with PAN, Aadhaar, address proof, photograph and a digital signature. Once issued, the DIN stays with the person for life and is used across all companies they direct. Each year, every DIN holder must file DIR-3 KYC by 30 September (free if filed on time, ₹5,000 late fee otherwise). Failure to file DIR-3 KYC marks the DIN as 'deactivated' — the person can no longer sign any company document until reactivated. Maximum 20 directorships per person (10 in public companies).