How to Apply for a DGCA Computer Number in India

If you are planning to appear for DGCA Flight Crew examinations in India, understanding the Computer Number application process is an important first step. DGCA has introduced automatic Computer Number generation through DigiLocker verification for eligible candidates, which has changed how some applications are processed.

The process depends on whether you already have a Computer Number, whether your educational records are available for verification, and which instructions apply to your application.

This guide explains how to prepare, apply through the DGCA Pariksha portal, avoid common mistakes and understand what to do after submitting your application.

If you are still exploring the overall journey, read our guide on how to become a pilot in India after Class 12.

What Is a DGCA Computer Number?

A DGCA Computer Number is a unique identification number allotted to a candidate after the applicable application and verification process is completed.

It is used for DGCA Flight Crew examination-related processes. According to DGCA's Pariksha FAQ, a candidate is permitted to have only one Computer Number, and the number remains valid for their lifetime.

A Computer Number is not a pilot licence. It is an identification number used within the applicable DGCA examination system.

Who Needs a DGCA Computer Number?

Candidates applying for relevant DGCA Flight Crew examination processes need to follow the applicable registration requirements.Before applying, check two things:

  • You have never received a Computer Number: You can review the new-candidate registration process.
  • You already have a Computer Number: Do not apply for another one. Follow the applicable existing-candidate registration or migration process on Pariksha.

DGCA's current Pariksha guidance also states that Flight Crew candidates outside the PPL category must have passed Class 12 with Physics and Mathematics from a recognised board or university, or hold an accepted equivalent qualification. Check the current requirements for your specific category before proceeding.

For a broader overview of educational requirements, see our guide to pilot training eligibility in India.

How to Apply for a DGCA Computer Number in India

Step 1: Check the Latest DGCA Instructions

Start by reviewing the current instructions on the DGCA Pariksha portal. Look for the Flight Crew registration section and the latest applicable user manual or public notice.

This step matters because DGCA has introduced automatic Computer Number generation for eligible candidates whose educational records can be verified through DigiLocker.

Do not rely only on older application guides, screenshots or advice from other candidates.

Step 2: Check Your DigiLocker Records

DGCA extended automatic Computer Number generation to eligible Indian candidates who have passed both Class 10 and Class 12 examinations through recognised boards, provided the relevant records are available in DigiLocker and the system successfully verifies them.

Before starting, check that:

  • Your Class 10 and Class 12 records are available in DigiLocker.
  • Your Aadhaar details match the information you enter on Pariksha.
  • Your name and date of birth are consistent with your educational records.
  • Your photograph and signature meet the current instructions.

If your records cannot be verified, automatic generation may not take place. Follow the instructions displayed for your application rather than assuming that your Computer Number has been issued.

Step 3: Open the Pariksha DGCA Portal

Visit the official Pariksha DGCA portal and navigate to the Flight Crew registration section.

If you have never received a Computer Number, review the New Candidate Registration process. Enter the details requested by the portal, ensuring that your name and date of birth match the relevant educational records.

The registration page asks for personal information such as your name, date of birth, parents' or guardian's details, Aadhaar number, mobile number and email address. The precise fields and verification steps should be checked on the live form.

Candidates who already have a Computer Number should use the applicable existing-candidate process instead.

Step 4: Complete the Required Verification

For candidates eligible for automatic generation, Pariksha uses DigiLocker verification to retrieve and check relevant educational information.DGCA's notice specifies the following conditions for this route:

  • The candidate must be an Indian national.
  • The Aadhaar number entered on Pariksha must match the information available in DigiLocker.
  • The relevant details retrieved from DigiLocker must be consistent.
  • The uploaded photograph must match the photograph available in DigiLocker to the extent specified in the notice.
  • The signature, mandatory fields and any supporting documents must comply with the current instructions.

A mismatch can prevent automatic generation. Review your entries carefully before submitting anything.

Step 5: Follow the Application Route Shown by Pariksha

This is an important point that applicants should not overlook.

Eligible candidates may have their Computer Number generated through the DigiLocker-based process after successful verification. However, DGCA's Pariksha FAQ also contains instructions for a manual application process, including printed documents and hard-copy submission for new candidates.

These instructions should not be treated as identical routes.

After submission, check your application status, registered email and the instructions in your Pariksha account. If the applicable process requires additional documents or hard-copy submission, follow the current directions in the Flight Crew user manual and portal.

Do not automatically mail documents just because an older guide mentions hard-copy submission, and do not skip submission if the current applicable instructions require it. The latest relevant DGCA notice and user manual should take precedence over older general guidance.

Step 6: Check Your Application Status

After submitting the application, keep an eye on your registered email and check the available application-status information through Pariksha.

If your Computer Number is not generated, check for messages about verification problems, incorrect information or missing documents. Correct any issues through the process specified by DGCA.

If the reason is unclear, use the Help Desk facility on the Pariksha portal. Avoid submitting a second application simply because the first one has not been processed yet.

Documents and Details to Keep Ready

Prepare the relevant information before starting your application. Depending on your circumstances and the application route, this may include:

  • Class 10 certificate or marksheet details
  • Class 12 certificate or marksheet details
  • Aadhaar information
  • Access to your DigiLocker records
  • A recent photograph meeting the current specifications
  • A signature image meeting the current specifications
  • A working mobile number and email address
  • Any additional supporting or equivalency documents required for your qualification

This is a preparation checklist, not a universal list of mandatory uploads. The documents and file specifications required for your application must be confirmed through the current Pariksha instructions.

Common Problems During DGCA Computer Number Registration

Automatic generation does not happen

Check whether your educational records are available in DigiLocker and whether the details you entered match the verified records. If the problem continues, follow the instructions in Pariksha or raise a query through the Help Desk.

Your name or date of birth does not match

Compare the details entered in the application with your relevant educational records. Avoid entering shortened or differently formatted personal details where the form asks you to follow your certificate.

Your photograph or signature is rejected

Review the latest Flight Crew user manual for the required photograph and signature specifications. DGCA's automatic-generation notice also sets a matching condition for the photograph and DigiLocker record.

You already have a Computer Number but cannot locate it

Do not apply for a new number. Check your existing candidate records and use the available Pariksha support channels if you cannot retrieve the required information.

Your application is still pending

Check your application status, registered email and any outstanding instructions. If no clear update is available, contact DGCA through the portal's Help Desk rather than relying on assumptions about processing times.

What Should You Do After Receiving Your Computer Number?

Once your Computer Number has been allotted, keep a secure record of it and the registered login details.

You can then continue with the relevant DGCA examination registration and preparation steps for your chosen pathway. Make sure your candidate profile is accurate and follow the instructions for the particular examination you intend to take.

For an overview of the examination subjects and preparation process, read SkyWize's guide to DGCA exams for pilots in India.

Final Thoughts

Applying for a DGCA Computer Number is easier to approach when you prepare your information carefully and follow the correct registration route.

Check whether you already have a number, confirm that your educational records can be verified, and follow the latest Pariksha instructions. If the system identifies a mismatch or asks for further action, resolve it through the prescribed process rather than submitting another application.

A careful start can help you avoid unnecessary delays as you move forward with your pilot-training journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is a DGCA Computer Number valid for a lifetime?

Yes. DGCA's Pariksha FAQ states that the Computer Number remains valid for the candidate's lifetime.

2. Can I have more than one DGCA Computer Number?

No. DGCA states that a candidate is authorised to have only one Computer Number. Candidates who already have one should use the applicable existing-candidate process.

3. Is DigiLocker required for automatic Computer Number generation?

Automatic generation depends on successful DigiLocker verification of the relevant records. Candidates should check the latest DGCA notice and Pariksha instructions for the conditions applicable to their application.

4. Do all candidates need to send hard copies of their documents?

Do not assume that every candidate follows the same process. DGCA has introduced automatic generation for eligible candidates, while the Pariksha FAQ also describes a manual process for new candidates. Follow the current instructions applicable to your application.

5. What should I do if my Computer Number is not generated automatically?

Check your DigiLocker records, Aadhaar details, photograph, signature and other application information. Then follow the status messages and instructions provided by Pariksha. Contact the Help Desk if the issue remains unresolved.

6. Can I apply for another Computer Number if I already have one?

No. DGCA permits only one Computer Number per candidate. If you have an existing number, use the applicable registration or migration process instead of applying as a new candidate.

7. Does receiving a Computer Number mean I have a pilot licence?

No. The Computer Number is an identification number for relevant DGCA Flight Crew examination processes. You must separately meet the requirements applicable to your chosen licence.