Caste Certificate Online: How to Apply for SC/ST/OBC Certificate in 2026

A caste certificate is an official document issued by the state government that confirms an individual belongs to a specific Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST), or Other Backward Class (OBC). It unlocks reservation benefits in education, government employment, and various welfare schemes.

Getting a caste certificate used to require multiple visits to the Tahsildar or SDM office. In 2026, most states offer complete online application, and EasyKagaz makes the process even simpler.

Why You Need a Caste Certificate

1. Government Job Reservations: SC/ST/OBC candidates get reserved positions in central and state government jobs. The certificate is mandatory to claim reservation.
2. College Admissions: Reserved seats in IITs, NITs, medical colleges, and state universities require a valid caste certificate.
3. Scholarship Applications: Most government scholarships for SC/ST/OBC students require caste verification.
4. Scheme Eligibility: PM Awas Yojana, Stand-Up India loans, and other welfare schemes check caste eligibility.
5. Non-Creamy Layer Certificate: OBC candidates need a caste certificate first to apply for an NCL certificate.

Documents Required

• Aadhaar Card of the applicant (front and back)
• Ration Card showing family details
• Father's Caste Proof — father's caste certificate, school leaving certificate showing caste, or birth certificate
• Passport-Size Photo of the applicant
• Address Proof — if different from Aadhaar address

Key Point: The caste is determined by the father's caste in most states. You'll need your father's caste proof as the primary supporting document.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Visit EasyKagaz

Go to the Caste Certificate page. Select your category — SC, ST, or OBC.

Step 2: Enter Personal Details

Fill in your name, father's name, caste/sub-caste, purpose of certificate, and address. Mention if you need it for central or state government purpose (the issuing authority differs).

Step 3: Upload Documents

Upload your Aadhaar card, ration card, father's caste proof document, and passport photo.

Step 4: Processing

Our team submits the application to the Tahsildar/SDM office through the state e-District portal. A verification process is initiated, which may include a physical visit by a revenue officer.

Step 5: Certificate Issuance

Once verified, the digitally signed caste certificate is issued. You receive it via WhatsApp and email. It's also available on the state portal for download.

Processing Timeline

| State | Average Processing Time | |-------|------------------------| | Maharashtra | 15-21 days | | Uttar Pradesh | 21-30 days | | Madhya Pradesh | 15-21 days | | Rajasthan | 21-30 days | | Bihar | 21-30 days |

Types of Caste Certificates

Central Caste Certificate

Issued by the District Magistrate or Additional DM. Required for central government jobs, central universities, and all-India competitive exams (UPSC, SSC, Railways).

State Caste Certificate

Issued by the Tahsildar or SDM. Valid for state government jobs, state university admissions, and state-level exams.

Common Issues and Solutions

1. Father's Caste Proof Not Available: If your father doesn't have a caste certificate, use his school leaving certificate, old ration card, or birth certificate showing caste.
2. Inter-Caste Marriage: If parents belong to different castes, the child's caste follows the father. Additional documentation may be required.
3. Different State Application: If you live in a different state than your home state, you may need to apply through your home state's portal.
4. Certificate Not Accepted: Some authorities don't accept old certificates. Check the validity period — many states require renewal every 5 years.

How Much Does It Cost?

• Government Fee: ₹0-50 (varies by state)
• EasyKagaz Processing Fee: ₹300 (includes document verification, application submission, and tracking)

Apply Today

Don't let documentation delays hold you back from reservation benefits in jobs and education. EasyKagaz ensures your caste certificate application is complete and rejection-free.

Apply for Caste Certificate →