The quick answer
GST registration gives an eligible business its GST Identification Number (GSTIN). First establish whether registration is mandatory or voluntary for your activity, state and PAN-based aggregate turnover. Opening a shop does not automatically mean every shop must register.
This guide follows the normal domestic taxpayer application. The GST portal decides the application; creating a Dukanam account does not apply for a GSTIN. Special applicant categories and schemes can have additional steps. Once approved, enter your actual registration details in your billing records.
Before you begin
- Business PAN and the exact PAN-linked legal name.
- Access to the primary authorised signatory’s Indian mobile number and email.
- Entity, person, authority and premises evidence relevant to your business.
- A decision about regular registration or an eligible composition option.
See how the pieces connect
Eligibility
Check activity, state and the registration provisions.
Part A
Validate identity and contacts to obtain a TRN.
Part B
Explain the business, people, premises and supplies.
Verification
Finish assigned authentication, obtain ARN and track the decision.
Work through the steps
Choose the correct applicant and state
Use the business PAN; a proprietorship normally uses the proprietor’s PAN. Select the state where registration is needed. Confirm eligibility before choosing a scheme or assuming one registration covers every location.
Open the official form
Visit gst.gov.in and choose Services → Registration → New Registration. In Part A select Taxpayer, state and district. Enter the PAN-linked legal name, email and mobile number. Avoid lookalike registration websites.
Verify contacts and keep the TRN
Complete the email and mobile OTP checks. Save the Temporary Reference Number and expiry shown by the portal. Reopen the draft through the TRN option and complete the required authentication.
Complete business and person tabs
Enter business details, promoters or partners, authorised signatory and representative where applicable. Distinguish legal name from trade name. Use the actual commencement date and the correct reason for registration.
Explain premises and supplies
Record the principal and additional places of business, occupancy type and supporting evidence. Describe the actual goods or services and classifications. Upload legible files that meet the portal’s current size and format limits.
Preview and sign the application
Review names, addresses, documents and declarations. Submit through the DSC or electronic verification method available to your entity. Follow the assigned Aadhaar OTP or biometric/document-verification route.
Finish authentication and track ARN
Complete any required verification appointment within the stated time. ARN generation depends on the applicable checks. Track the application and respond to notices by their deadlines rather than submitting repeated applications.
Set up records after approval
Download the certificate and confirm GSTIN, effective date and taxpayer type. Complete applicable post-registration details and update billing. Keep the approved certificate, application and notices together.
A worked example
Four references describe four different stages
These are milestones, not promised processing times. Save the evidence for each stage.
| Milestone | Meaning | What to retain |
|---|---|---|
| TRN | A draft can be reopened | Reference and expiry |
| REG-01 submitted | Application sent for processing | Application copy and authentication instructions |
| ARN generated | Application can be tracked | ARN and notice responses |
| Approved GSTIN | Registration decision issued | Certificate, effective date and filing profile |
An ARN identifies an application. It is not an approved GSTIN, and it should not be printed as one on an invoice.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Entering the trade name where the PAN-linked legal name is requested.
- Uploading unrelated premises evidence or unreadable images.
- Stopping after submission when authentication or clarification is still pending.
- Assuming a billing-software account completes GST registration.
Questions you might have
Does Dukanam register my shop for GST?
No. Apply on the GST portal. After approval, Dukanam can use the business details for supported GST-aware billing and preparation on an eligible plan.
Is an OTP always the final authentication step?
No. The assigned route may include biometric or document verification. Follow the instructions generated for your application.
Dukanam
A smart, low-cost choice for small-business GST billing
Dukanam brings billing, purchases, stock, customer balances, payments and reports together. It is built for Indian small businesses that want clear records without a complicated setup.
Best suited to shops that want connected everyday billing and bookkeeping, web and mobile access, and nine product languages. Choose the plan that includes the features you need.
GST-aware billing and preparation depend on your plan. Review records before filing on the GST portal; Dukanam does not directly submit GST returns, government e-invoices or e-way bills.
Current plans with GST preparation
- Advanced Plan₹299.00 per month
Check annual prices, limits, applicable taxes and checkout terms. Paid plans do not include a free trial.
Sources and further reading
Official rules and portal screens can change. Use the linked authority for the current requirements; the figures in our worked examples are illustrative.