Documents required for a caste certificate (SC / ST / OBC)
Quick answer: For a caste certificate you typically need proof of identity, proof of address, proof of caste (usually a blood relative's caste certificate or old school/land records) and a self-declaration, plus a passport-size photo. Apply on your state's e-District portal or at the tehsil office — the exact list varies by state.
🪪 Proof of identity (any one)
- Aadhaar card
- Voter ID (EPIC)
- Passport
- Driving licence
🏠 Proof of address (any one)
- Aadhaar card
- Ration card
- Electricity / water bill
- Bank passbook or statement
🧾 Proof of caste (commonly asked)
- Caste certificate of father or a blood relative
- School leaving / transfer certificate mentioning caste
- Old land or revenue records mentioning caste
- Self-declaration or affidavit in the state's format
📎 Also keep ready
- Passport-size photograph
- Ration card copy (some states)
- Application form of the state portal
📸 The photo — for the application, and of the certificate
For the application: keep a recent passport-size photograph ready. Each state portal sets its own size and file limit, so resize the photo to what your form states. On Maharashtra's Aaple Sarkar, a photo of the applicant is even accepted as the proof of identity.
A photo or scan of your certificate: when an admission, scholarship or job form asks you to upload your caste certificate, photograph it flat and in good light, turn it into a clean JPG or PDF with the document scanner, and bring it under that form's upload limit — the resizer for a JPG, the PDF compressor for a PDF.
Good to know
Apply on your state e-District portal or at the tehsil/SDM office. Formats, fees and the exact proof-of-caste list vary significantly by state — always confirm the current list on your state portal before applying.
Frequently asked questions
What documents prove my caste?
Most states accept a blood relative's (usually father's) caste certificate, or old school/land records that mention caste, along with a self-declaration in the prescribed format.
Is a photo needed for a caste certificate?
Yes. Keep a recent passport-size photograph ready and resize it to the limit your state's portal states. Maharashtra's Aaple Sarkar even lists a photo of the applicant among its accepted proofs of identity.
Where do I apply for a caste certificate?
On your state's e-District portal online, or at the tehsil/SDM office. Processing time and fees vary by state.
Is a caste certificate needed for every exam?
It's needed to claim SC/ST/OBC reservation in exams, admissions and jobs. OBC candidates usually also need a current non-creamy-layer certificate.
General information, not legal or tax advice — and ToolGalli is not affiliated with any government department or bank. Requirements change; verify on the official source.