This is very different than the current WHQL program, where the user ultimately decides how they want to handle unsigned drivers.This certificate from Verisign costs $500 a year. More info over here.
Vista driver developers must obtain a Publisher Identity Certificate (PIC) from Microsoft. Microsoft says they won't charge for it, but they require that you have a Class 3 Commercial Software Publisher Certificate from Verisign.
Windows Vista x64 to need signed drivers
Posted on Monday, January 23 2006 @ 10:03 CET by Thomas De Maesschalck