Director Identification Number (DIN)

Director Identification Number (DIN) is an 8-digit Unique Identification Number allotted to all existing and new directors. It is a mandatory requirement and without DIN no person can become a director.

Obtaining DIN has been made mandatory as earlier people would incorporate companies such as chit fund and raise money from people and cheat people. Now Ministry keeps DIN database to map all the people who hold director position in any company.

The DIN directory contains all information regarding the directors, such as their name, PAN number and also their present address. Any change in the address or other information needs to be updated immediately.

A DIN is same as PAN. Same as a PAN is unique to an individual and remains valid for lifetime, a DIN is also person specific and remain valid throughout life of director until surrendered.

A DIN is individual specific and can be used during a lifetime and there is no need to obtain separate DIN each time a new company is floated.
Also, where the ministry finds that you are applying

The Name should be expanded in application even if the ID proof contains the name in abbreviated form.
Any mismatch in Name, including spelling mistake, may lead to rejection of application. Minor spelling deviations in the father?s name may be accepted, if such deviations do not materially impact the name.
Prefixes like Mr. / Ms. / Kumari / Shri etc. used in the applicant?s name
Submission of old Residence proofs like: Bank Statements, Electricity Bill, Telephone Bill, Utility bills etc. submitted are older than 2 months of submitting the application for verification OR such documents are in the name of some other person, for example father or spouse.
If the seal/ stamp does not contain membership/ practicing certificate number, same may be recorded by hand.
Only such documents which are currently valid should be attached

Yes, an NRI or any foreign national can become a director in a private limited company. But such person can be taken as a director only when there is one director who is a Resident of India. Additional documents required:

• Copy of Passport Copy Which is attested by Consulate of Indian Embassy or Foreign Public Notary.


• Copy of Driving License/ Bank Statement or Electricity Bills copy or Any Property Tax Payment Receipt which is attested by Consulate of Indian Embassy or Foreign Public Notary.