Digital certificate: understand the different types and which is the most suitable for you

Users should take into account the usage types, media format and validity periods of their digital certificates to pick the best option

Prior to obtaining a digital certificate, you will be faced with the question: “What type of digital certificate do you want?” Indeed, there are different types and standards available, each of which being more appropriate for a specific need.

Required in countless situations, a digital certificate is akin to an individual’s or company’s electronic identity, adding speed, convenience and security to the daily lives of those who need to attest the authenticity of their signature in a virtual environment.

To make the right choice, you should consider the characteristics of each type of digital certificate.

Main types of Digital Certificate

Type-A digital certificates are the ones used for signing and validating digital files. These are further divided into types A1 and A3. Among their differences are the way through which their data is stored and their validity period, but both provide the same level of security.

A1 Digital Certificate

Storage: data is stored in a web browser or computer.

Valid for: 1 year.

As it is installed on the user's computer, the risk of data loss is low.

---

A3 Digital Certificate

Storage: data is stored on cryptographic media such as a token or a smart card.

Valid for: 1, 2 or 3 years.

It is installed on a token or smart card, thus providing greater mobility.

Standards and uses

Prior to getting a certificate, you will need to choose one of the standards available. Learn more about the standards and how they are used:

e-CPF

The e-CPF contains an individual’s digital identity, including data such as name, civilian identity number, e-mail, and so forth. This digital certificate standard ensures the authenticity and legal validity of a citizen's electronic signature. This standard also provides easier access to government systems, such as the e-CAC (the Electronic Service Center for Taxpayers).

Usage examples:

• Legally valid digital signing of documents;
• Services related to Income Tax Returns;
• Accessing the State Department of Motor Vehicles (Detran) and obtaining the Digital Driver's License (“CNH Digital”);
• Requesting electronic services at notary offices.

---

e-CNPJ

The e-CNPJ is the electronic equivalent of the Corporate Taxpayer Identification Number, which is used to identify a company by means of its legal representative. This standard is used for signing documents and powers of attorney, as well as for accessing information and requesting services on government websites on the company’s behalf.

---

NF-e

The NF-e is used solely for the issuance and signature of electronic invoices. A company can appoint one of its employees as the person responsible for issuing and signing these documents.

How to choose a digital certificate

Just ask yourself whether you will be using it as a citizen, as the legal representative of a company, or exclusively for issuing invoices. Thus, you must choose between e-CPF, e-CNPJ and NF-e.

Next, you should decide which type best suits your needs: A1 (digital file) or A3 (USB token or smart card). Do you require the mobility of a portable device such as a token or card, or is it enough to have it installed on a computer?

Finally, you should consider the validity period for your digital certificate, while factoring issues such as the value, the practicality, and the convenience for each option.

How to buy a digital certificate

Getting a digital certificate with DPC’s support is very easy, quick and safe. You can buy one in just a few steps by clicking here.

DPC is a registration authority (RA) linked to the Brazilian Public Key Infrastructure (ICP-Brasil) for issuing and renewing digital certificates for individuals and companies.

One of our dedicated professionals (registration agent) guides the client throughout the whole process, assuring that it is carried out within the required security standards so that the devices used for digital signatures are legally valid.

You can rely on the guidance of our registration agents right now to clarify questions or to request your digital certificate. Please, contact us: certificadoradpc@dpc.com.br.