How to Get a DPIIT Registration Number in India

The DPIIT Registration Number is a regulatory identifier granted to eligible startups under the Startup India initiative. It plays a vital role in enabling statutory benefits, simplifying compliance, and improving funding eligibility. In this article, you will learn about the DPIIT registration number, the issuance process, and practical relevance for recognised startups in India.

What Is a DPIIT Registration Number?

The DPIIT Registration Number is a unique identification number issued to startups that receive official recognition from the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under the Government of India. It confirms that the entity qualifies as a recognised startup within the framework of the Startup India initiative.

This number is generated after a successful application and approval on the Startup India portal and serves as proof of eligibility for various government benefits and exemptions granted to innovative businesses.

DPIIT Registration Number Format

The DPIIT registration number format is explained in detail below:

• Structure: The DPIIT Registration Number is an alphanumeric identifier assigned to startups upon successful DPIIT recognition. It typically includes a prefix (DPIIT), the year of registration, and a unique serial code (e.g., DPIIT2022AB1234). This structure helps track the year of approval and ensures traceability in official records.
• Uniqueness: No two startups share the same DPIIT number. It serves as a distinct digital signature confirming that the entity meets all eligibility criteria under the Startup India framework.
• Sample Format: A standard example is DPIIT2022AB1234. While exact formatting may vary slightly depending on system-generated inputs, the general structure remains consistent across recognitions.
• Where to Find: Once the DPIIT recognition is approved, the number appears on the Startup India portal dashboard under the registered user’s profile. It is also included in the PDF version of the DPIIT Recognition Certificate, which is available for download.

Who Gets a DPIIT Registration Number?

Below is a list of individuals/entities that can receive a DPIIT registration number:

• Eligibility for DPIIT Recognition: Startups must be incorporated in India and should not be older than 10 years from the date of registration. Their annual turnover must not exceed 100 crore in any preceding financial year.
• Types of Entities Eligible: Only the following business structures can apply:

• Private Limited Company (registered under the Companies Act, 2013)
• Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) (registered under the LLP Act, 2008)
• Registered Partnership Firm (under the Indian Partnership Act, 1932)

• Compliance with Startup India Criteria: The entity must work towards innovation, development, and improvement of products or services, or have a scalable business model with high employment or wealth generation potential. It must not result from the split or reconstruction of an existing business.

Where and How Is the DPIIT Number Used?

Listed below are the situations where and how one can use the DPIIT registration number:

• While Applying for Tax Exemptions

The DPIIT Registration Number is a required field in the application for tax benefits under the Income Tax Act. Startups use it to request an exemption under Section 80-IAC, which allows tax relief for three consecutive financial years. It also supports exemption from Angel Tax under Section 56(2)(viib), which removes the tax burden on funds raised through equity from angel investors.

• During Funding Pitches and Investor Due Diligence

Investors often ask for the DPIIT number before approving any funding. It assures them that the startup meets the official criteria for recognition under Startup India. This number reflects regulatory compliance and adds credibility during the due diligence stage, which helps increase investor trust.

• In Government Schemes and Legal Documentation

Many government schemes require the DPIIT number to process benefits such as funding support, public procurement access, and patent fee rebates. It also appears in legal documents when startups apply for tenders, file declarations, or submit applications to public authorities.

• On Online Portals and Startup Directories

The Startup India portal displays the DPIIT number on the startup’s public profile. Several startup directories and private platforms also use this number to confirm recognition status. This improves visibility and trust across the ecosystem, especially during partnership or vendor registration.

How to Obtain a DPIIT Registration Number

The steps to obtain a DPIIT registration number are as follows:

Step 1: Register on the Startup India Portal

Visit the official Startup India portal and register using the startup’s official email address. Enter the required details such as the founder’s name and mobile number. Verify the email to activate the account.

Step 2: Access the User Dashboard

After successful login, access the user dashboard. This section contains the recognition application form, profile setup option, and document upload tabs.

Step 3: Complete the Startup Profile

Enter the name of the startup, date of incorporation, business sector, stage of development, and office location. Provide a clear and specific description of the problem addressed, the solution offered, and the unique value proposition. Also, specify the customer segment and scalability of the model.

Step 4: Upload the Certificate of Incorporation or Registration

Attach a copy of the Certificate of Incorporation issued under the Companies Act, the LLP Act, or the Indian Partnership Act. This document validates the legal existence of the entity.

Step 5: Provide Director or Partner Details

Submit accurate information about all directors or partners, including full name, email address, contact number, and either Director Identification Number (DIN) or Permanent Account Number (PAN). Ensure the details match the official incorporation documents.

Step 6: Submit a Brief Description of Innovation

Draft a concise write-up that highlights the innovative nature of the business. Mention how the startup improves products, services, or processes, and what distinguishes it from conventional models. Provide practical examples or references to technology or intellectual assets, if applicable.

Step 7: Attach Supporting Documents (Optional)

Upload any available pitch deck, product video, website link, or media coverage that supports the innovation claim. Though optional, these materials strengthen the application and improve evaluation transparency.

Step 8: Submit the Recognition Application

Navigate to the ‘Get Recognised’ tab in the dashboard. Review all filled details and uploaded documents thoroughly. Once verified, submit the recognition application for DPIIT review.

Step 9: Track the Application Status

Monitor the application status on the portal dashboard. DPIIT may request clarifications or additional inputs if any discrepancies are found during the review. Respond promptly to ensure uninterrupted processing.

Step 10: Receive the DPIIT Registration Number and Certificate

Once the application is approved, the portal generates a DPIIT Recognition Certificate that includes a unique DPIIT Registration Number. The certificate becomes available for download on the Startup India portal. The approval process is typically completed within 7 to 10 working days.

Validity and Renewal of DPIIT Number

The validity and renewal of the DPIIT number are as follows:

• Duration of Recognition

The DPIIT Registration Number remains valid for 10 years from the date of incorporation of the startup. The recognition automatically expires once the entity crosses this time limit, irrespective of its business activity or funding stage.

• Renewal Process

There is no separate renewal process for DPIIT recognition. The recognition remains valid as long as the entity stays within the 10-year limit and continues to meet the eligibility criteria. After 10 years, the startup becomes ineligible for DPIIT benefits, and the recognition lapses automatically. But the company may run as it is.

• Revocation of DPIIT Status

DPIIT holds the authority to revoke recognition if the startup provides false information, misuses benefits, or fails to meet eligibility requirements. If the entity ceases to be innovative, splits from an existing business, or crosses the turnover limit of 100 crore in any financial year, the status becomes invalid. The revocation may also occur after a compliance review or verification process.

Benefits of Having a DPIIT Registration Number

When a startup has a DPIIT registration number, it enjoys a lot of benefits. A few of the benefits are as follows:

• Income Tax Exemption under Section 80-IAC

A startup with DPIIT recognition becomes eligible to apply for income tax exemption under Section 80-IAC of the Income Tax Act. This exemption is available for three consecutive financial years within the first ten years of incorporation. To claim this benefit, the startup must obtain approval from the Inter-Ministerial Board constituted by DPIIT.

• Exemption from Angel Tax under Section 56(2)(viib)

DPIIT-recognised startups can seek exemption from Angel Tax under Section 56(2)(viib). This provision ensures that investments raised from Indian investors above the fair market value do not attract additional tax liability. It encourages early-stage funding without imposing financial penalties on capital raised.

• Faster Processing of Patent Applications

DPIIT recognition allows startups to access fast-track processing of patent applications under the SIPP (Startups Intellectual Property Protection) scheme. Startups receive support from empanelled facilitators, benefit from reduced government fees, and enjoy a quicker examination process for patent registration.

• Relaxation in Government Tenders and Procurement

Recognised startups receive exemptions from criteria such as prior experience, turnover threshold, and earnest money deposit while applying for government tenders. This relaxation enables them to compete with established companies in public procurement and enhances their business development opportunities.

• Access to Government-Backed Funding Schemes

Startups with DPIIT recognition can apply for financial support through government initiatives such as the Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS), managed by SIDBI. This provides access to capital through registered Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs), improving funding opportunities and scalability potential.

Common Mistakes to Avoid while Applying for DPIIT Registration Number

The common mistakes to avoid while applying for a DPIIT registration number are as follows:

• Incorrect Entity Type

DPIIT recognition applies only to Private Limited Companies, Limited Liability Partnerships, and Registered Partnership Firms. Any application from a sole proprietorship, unregistered firm, or trust does not qualify. The portal rejects such entities during initial verification.

• Mismatch in Incorporation Details

The details entered in the application must match exactly with the incorporation certificate. This includes the legal name of the entity, date of incorporation, and registered address. Any mismatch between uploaded documents and entered data causes delays or rejection.

• Lack of Innovation Justification

DPIIT grants recognition only to startups that focus on innovation, development, or improvement. If the application fails to explain how the business creates value, improves existing solutions, or uses a unique model, it does not meet the required standard. A vague or copied description weakens the application.

• Non-Compliance with DPIIT's Definition of a Startup

The entity must not be more than ten years old from the date of incorporation. Its annual turnover must not cross 100 crore in any financial year. The startup must not result from splitting or restructuring an existing business. Any violation of these conditions disqualifies the application.

Conclusion

To sum up, understanding the DPIIT Registration Number is crucial for formal recognition, financial access, and regulatory support under the Startup India framework. It is not just a digital reference—it is an essential credential that validates a startup’s eligibility for key exemptions, policy benefits, and funding opportunities. Each step, from profile creation to certificate issuance, demands accuracy and alignment with DPIIT guidelines.

While the registration process may seem intricate, professional assistance ensures a smooth, swift, and error-free experience. Among various legal service providers, Online Legal India distinguishes itself through prompt execution, expert guidance, and dependable documentation. Their dedicated team helps startups obtain DPIIT recognition with precision, unlocking full access to the structured benefits offered under India’s startup ecosystem.