Quick answer: To convert physical shares to demat, you submit a Dematerialisation Request Form (DRF) with the original certificates to your Depository Participant (DP), who generates a Demat Request Number (DRN) and forwards it to the company's RTA for verification. A clean case typically completes in 2 to 6 weeks; the only real costs are small per-certificate DP charges, plus any corrections if there is a name or signature mismatch.
The step-by-step process
Dematerialisation runs through your DP (broker or bank), not the company directly:
- Open a demat account if you do not have one, in the exact name on the certificates.
- Complete KYC / ISR forms on the folio first — an un-updated physical folio is frozen and cannot be dematerialised until KYC is done.
- Submit the DRF with the original share certificates to your DP; deface the certificates as 'Surrendered for Dematerialisation'.
- DP generates a DRN and sends the request electronically to NSDL/CDSL and the RTA.
- RTA verifies against the company's records and confirms the demat.
- Shares are credited to your demat account.
For the complete guide, see our physical shares to demat page.
How long it really takes
A folio with up-to-date KYC and no name/signature issues usually dematerialises in about 2 to 6 weeks. The main delay is almost never the depository — it is an incomplete KYC or a name mismatch that has to be fixed first.
What it costs
There is no percentage-of-value charge to dematerialise — the cost is a small flat DP fee, whatever the shares are worth.
Where people get stuck
The three things that stall a demat request are a frozen folio (KYC not done), a name that does not match PAN, and an old signature that no longer matches the records. Each is fixable, but each adds weeks if discovered late. ClaimMyFunds checks all three up front and handles the corrections so the DRF goes through the first time.
Send us the details of your certificates for a free review on +91 90818 47140.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to convert physical shares to demat?
A clean case with updated KYC and no mismatches usually takes 2 to 6 weeks. Cases needing KYC updates or name/signature corrections take longer.
What does dematerialisation cost?
Only a small flat DP fee — typically Rs 100 to 400 per certificate — plus minor postage and any demat account charges. There is no percentage-of-value fee.
What is a DRN?
A DRN, or Demat Request Number, is the reference your Depository Participant generates when it forwards your dematerialisation request to the depository and RTA for verification.
Why is my demat request delayed?
The usual causes are a frozen folio (KYC not completed), a name mismatch with PAN, or an old signature. ClaimMyFunds resolves these before submitting so the request clears the first time.