Chapter XI - Appointment and Qualifications of Directors
Section 155
Section 155: prohibition on holding more than one DIN
An individual who has already been allotted a DIN under section 154 must not apply for, obtain or possess another DIN.
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Need advice on Section 155?
This article is for general information. Refer to the Companies Act, 2013 official text for the official provisions. If you need professional advice for your situation, contact Bizeneed.
Statutory text
Bare law
No individual, who has already been allotted a Director Identification Number under section 154, shall apply for, obtain or possess another Director Identification Number.
Introduction
A DIN is a single identifier for a director across companies. Section 155 prohibits an individual already allotted a DIN from applying for, obtaining or possessing another one. A contravention is dealt with under section 159.
Key takeaways
Three prohibited acts
Applying for, obtaining or possessing a second DIN are each prohibited.
Applies across companies
The same DIN is used for every directorship.
Consequence
Section 159 deals with contravention of section 155.
Scope of the bar
The prohibition applies to any individual who has already been allotted a DIN under section 154. It covers applying for, obtaining and possessing another DIN.
Consequence of contravention
Section 159 sets out the consequence for an individual or director who contravenes section 152, 155 or 156. Read section 159 in its current form for the applicable penalty.
Practical preparation
Before any DIN application, check whether the individual already has a DIN; if two DINs exist, take advice on regularising the position under the current rules; use one DIN in all filings.
Practical checklist
Do
- Search for an existing DIN before applying.
- Quote the same DIN for every company.
Avoid
- Do not apply for a new DIN when an earlier one exists, for example after a change of name or address.
Illustrative example
Hypothetical: director joining a second board
A director of one company is invited to join the board of another.
Check
Confirm the existing DIN.
Use
Use the same DIN for the new appointment.
Intimate
The director intimates the DIN to the new company as part of the appointment.
Outcome
- No second DIN is applied for, in line with section 155.
Glossary
- Possess
- Hold or keep. Section 155 prohibits even possessing a second DIN.
- Section 159
- The section dealing with defaults under sections 152, 155 and 156.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a new DIN for each company?
No. Section 155 prohibits a second DIN; the same DIN is used for every directorship.
What if I already hold two DINs?
Possessing a second DIN is itself prohibited. Check the current rules on surrender or cancellation and take professional advice.
Need help applying this provision to your situation?
Contact BizeneedLast updated 11 October 2026