A Private Limited Company (Pvt Ltd) is the most preferred structure for startups and growing businesses in India. It offers limited liability, a separate legal identity, and makes it easier to raise funding and scale operations.

But for first-time entrepreneurs, the process of registration can seem complex. In this blog, we break down how to register a Private Limited Company in India step-by-step, including documents, timelines, and costs.

✅ Why Choose a Private Limited Company?

• 🔐 Limited liability – Founders’ personal assets are protected

• 🏢 Separate legal identity – The company is distinct from its owners

• 💸 Investment-friendly – Preferred by angels, VCs, and banks

• 📈 Scalability – Easily add co-founders, directors, or shareholders

• 📑 Structured compliance – Boosts credibility with clients & vendors

🧾 Step-by-Step Registration Process

Step 1: Get Digital Signature Certificates (DSC)

A DSC is required for each director to sign forms electronically.

• Who needs it: All proposed directors

• Issued by: Certifying authorities like eMudhra, VSign, etc.

• Validity: 1–2 years

• Cost: ₹800–₹1,500 per person

Step 2: Apply for Director Identification Number (DIN)

DIN is a unique ID assigned to each director.

• Applied through SPICe+ form

• One DIN is sufficient for multiple companies

• No separate form needed if applying through company registration

Step 3: Name Reservation (RUN or SPICe+ Part A)

Choose and reserve your company name.

• File via MCA portal

• Follow naming rules (must end in “Private Limited”)

• You can propose up to 2 names

• Approval time: 2–3 working days

✅ Tip: Search your proposed name at mca.gov.in

Step 4: File SPICe+ Form (Company Incorporation)

This is the main form that includes:

• Company incorporation

• PAN & TAN application

• DIN allotment

• GST registration (optional)

✅ Documents required:

• ID & address proof of directors

• Passport-sized photos

• Utility bill & NOC for registered office

• Rent agreement or property papers

Filing can be done through:

• A professional CA/CS/Lawyer

• Online platforms like IndiaFilings, Vakilsearch, LegalWiz, etc.

Step 5: Receive Incorporation Certificate

Once approved, you’ll get:

• Certificate of Incorporation (COI)

• Company PAN & TAN

• CIN (Corporate Identity Number)

• MOA & AOA (Memorandum & Articles of Association)

🎉 You are now officially a company!

📦 What Happens After Registration?

• Open a current account in the company’s name

• Register for GST, if applicable

• Start maintaining compliance:

  • Board resolutions

  • Minutes of meetings

  • Accounting books

  • Annual ROC filing

• Optional: Register for Startup India, MSME, and trademark

💰 Cost & Timeline Overview

Total estimated cost: ₹6,000–₹12,000

🚨 Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Choosing a name too similar to an existing company
❌ Using personal bank accounts for company transactions
❌ Ignoring post-registration compliance
❌ Not creating a founders’ agreement or equity structure

🧠 Final Thoughts

Registering a Private Limited Company in India is easier than ever thanks to digital portals, but it’s crucial to get your foundation right. With the right setup, you’ll be ready to scale, seek funding, hire employees, and build a legally sound business.