Director Identification Number requirement permits appointment pending allotment but mandates application for prospective and existing directors. Individuals intending appointment as directors and persons already appointed before the Companies (Amendment) Act, 2006 must apply to the Central Government for allotment of a Director Identification Number in the prescribed form, manner (including electronic form) and with payment of the prescribed fee; applicants who have applied may be appointed or continue as directors until the Director Identification Number is allotted.