Select a DCV method for DV certificates
When placing a DV TLS certificate request, select a DCV method for each domain on the order.
Method | How it works | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|
Email to DNS TXT record contact | DigiCert sends an authorization email to the address in the domain's DNS TXT record | Environments where DNS access is available and a monitored contact email is defined | Add and validate a domain using email to DNS TXT record contact |
Email to DNS CAA record contact | DigiCert sends an authorization email to the address in the domain's CAA record | Environments where a CAA record contact email is already configured | Add and validate a domain using email to DNS CAA record contact |
Constructed email | DigiCert sends authorization emails to standard administrative addresses such as admin@ and webmaster@ | Environments where standard administrative email aliases are monitored | |
DNS TXT record | Add a DigiCert-generated random value to the domain's DNS as a TXT record | Most environments. Recommended as the least vulnerable to industry changes. | |
DNS CNAME record | Create a CNAME record pointing to a DigiCert validation host | Environments where DNS access is available and the domain uses CNAME routing | |
HTTP Practical Demonstration | Place a DigiCert-generated file on the web server at a specific URL | Environments with web server access and open port 80. Supports IPv4 and IPv6 address validation. | Add and validate a domain using HTTP Practical Demonstration |
WHOIS-based DCV email methods
On May 8, 2025, DigiCert ended support for WHOIS-based DCV email methods. DigiCert no longer queries WHOIS to find email addresses for domain validation. To continue using email validation, use the DNS TXT record contact, DNS CAA record contact, or constructed email addresses method. Learn more about the end of life for WHOIS-based DCV methods.
Notice
The following methods are not supported for DV certificates:
Domain prevalidation
HTTP Practical Demonstration with unique filename
For detailed steps for each method, see the relevant topic in this chapter.
What's next
Complete validation from the Order details page to finish domain validation after selecting your method