# NIST Finalizes Post-Quantum Signature Standards

As of November 10, 2026, NIST has finalized two post-quantum digital-signature standards: ML-DSA (FIPS 204) and SLH-DSA (FIPS 205). FN-DSA remains unpublished, while nine additional candidates are still under evaluation. Federal agencies have a December 31, 2031 target for migrating digital signatures, giving suppliers about five years to document support for the finalized standards and plan for future algorithm changes.

- Suppliers can document current ML-DSA and SLH-DSA support, algorithm agility, and upgrade paths to help agencies assess products and services for the migration.
- Procurement teams can use the finalized standards and the continuing evaluation of other candidates to inform technical requirements and transition planning; the signal identifies no specific solicitation, contract value, or procurement contact.
- NIST’s work indicates that post-quantum cryptography readiness is relevant to federal cybersecurity product and service planning ahead of the 2031 target.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Information Technology
**Topics:** Cybersecurity
**Published:** November 10, 2026

### Government Entities
- National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)

### Key Quotes
> As we advance our understanding of future quantum computers and adapt to emerging cryptanalysis techniques, it’s essential to have a fallback in case ML-KEM proves to be vulnerable.
> — Dustin Moody, Head of NIST’s post-quantum cryptography project at the time

### Sources
- [Post Quantum Cryptography Signatures: 9 vs 2 [2026]](https://shattered.io/post-quantum-signatures-nine-round-3-candidates-vs-ml-dsa-slh-dsa-2026) - shattered.io