A Director Identification Number (DIN) is a unique eight-digit number assigned by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs to individuals who have been appointed as directors of a company in India. The purpose of the DIN is to serve as a central repository of information about directors, making it easier to track their appointment and disqualification in different companies.
To obtain a DIN, an individual must submit a DIN application to the Ministry of Corporate Affairs along with the required documentation, such as a copy of their PAN card and proof of identity. The DIN application must also be accompanied by a consent letter from the proposed director, confirming their willingness to serve as a director in the company.
Once the DIN application is approved, the individual can use their DIN to apply for a directorship in any company registered in India. The DIN remains valid for the lifetime of the director, regardless of the number of companies they serve in or their appointment and disqualification history.
It is important to note that every director of a company must have a unique DIN and it is mandatory for all new directors appointed after April 1, 2006, to obtain one. Failure to obtain a DIN can result in penalties and fines imposed by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.
In summary, a Director Identification Number is a unique identification number assigned to individuals appointed as directors of a company in India. It serves as a central repository of information about directors and is a mandatory requirement for all new directors appointed after April 1, 2006.