EN
A DRF is simply a form used to change physical share certificates into electronic form. This article walks you through what the form is, why it is needed, and how to fill it in properly. While trading shares online is now straightforward, physical shares cannot be sold or transferred unless they are converted first. To do this, you must open a Demat account and submit a DRF.
Key Takeaways
-
Physical share certificates must be converted into electronic form before they can be sold or transferred, in line with SEBI regulations.
-
Dematerialisation requires a Demat account, a Depository Participant, and submission of a correctly completed Dematerialisation Request Form (DRF).
-
There are three DRF types. Normal, Transposition-cum-Demat, and Transmission-cum-Demat. These are used based on ownership details and circumstances.
-
Accurate entry of details such as ISIN, folio numbers, and signatures is essential to avoid delays in the dematerialisation process.
What is a DRF?
The term DRF stands for Dematerialization Request Form. Dematerialization is converting your physical shares and securities into digital or electronic form. DRF is a form that needs to be filled out to request this conversion. However, you need to fulfill the below-mentioned prerequisites for the dematerialization of shares. a. You need to have a Demat account b. You must have an account with a Depository Participant (DP) c. You are required to deface and turn over to the DP any certificates registered in your name d. You have to fill out and submit a DRF form along with your share certificates
Types of DRF
Based on the different scenarios, there are three types of DRF. Take a look at these various dematerialization forms and learn when they are relevant.
-
Transmission-cum-Dematerialization
In the case of joint holdings, if any one or more joint holder(s) dies, the surviving joint holder(s) can fill out this form to get the name of the deceased removed from the physical certificate and then get the securities dematerialized.
-
Transposition-cum-Dematerialization
If the name(s) of the investors mentioned on the physical share certificate are the same as the name(s) in the Demat account, but in a different order, this form needs to be filled out.
-
Normal Demat Request Form
If the name(s) mentioned on the physical share certificate are the same as of the Demat account and in the same order, and none of the joint holder(s) has died, you need to submit this form. Simply put, if you don’t belong to either of the above-mentioned situations, kindly fill out the Normal Demat Request Form.
How to fill a DRF?
Following are the details mentioned in the DRF that you need to fill out.
1. Contact Number and Date
Enter your existing phone number along with and date of submitting the DRF. 
2. Specific Client ID
Every client has a unique client ID, and you need to mention the same here.
3. Account Holder(s)
Mention the name of the holder(s) in the same order as in the Demat account. 
4. Face value
Specify the face value of the security as mentioned in the physical share certificate.
5. Quantity of Shares
Mention the number of shares according to the certificate.
6. ISIN
Enter ISIN, a unique 12-digit alphanumeric code given to shares, debentures, bonds, and other securities when the security is admitted into the depository system. Please note that the first two digits of the ISIN code represent the country of registration for security. 
7. Details of Security
Put a tick against whether it is free or locked-in securities, along with the total number of certificates. 
8. Folio Details
Mention folio number, certificate numbers, distinctive numbers, and quantity of shares. Along with it, enter the certificate number found on the share certificate. Kindly enter the from and to numbers if the numbers are in sequence, however, if that’s not the case, enter them separately in each row. 
9. Signature
The holders should do their complete signature in the order of their names in the account, which should match the specimen signature at the registrar. 
10. Declaration
Give a declaration that details duly filled in the application form are true to the best of your knowledge.
11. Form ISR-2
To confirm the signature of the securities the banker holds, you need to fill in the following details in Form ISR-2 - company name, type of security, the number of shares, and ISIN.
Factors to Consider When Filling a DRF Form: What Should You Keep in Mind?
Before filling out a Dematerialisation Request Form, it is important to be aware of a few essential factors. These points help ensure the dematerialisation process runs smoothly and without unnecessary delays.
-
You must have an active Demat account to receive the electronic shares.
-
You should be registered with a Depository Participant to process the request.
-
Physical share certificates must be in your name and clearly marked as cancelled.
-
All details entered in the DRF must match your Demat and share certificate records.
-
The completed DRF must be submitted along with the physical certificates to the DP.
Conclusion
Dematerialization is converting your physical shares into digital form, and you can raise the request by submitting DRF. Conversion through DRF is easy and hassle-free if you fill out the form diligently. However, if there are some errors, they can be rectified and changed with cooperation and harmony with relevant authorities.
