How to apply for a Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC)?

If you are planning to build a career on the high seas, there is one document that is as important as your passport: the Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC).

In this blog, we will break down everything you need to know about applying for an Indian CDC, from eligibility, to common mistakes to avoid, to the final delivery at your doorstep.

What is a CDC?

A Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC) is an official seafarer's identity document issued by the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), Government of India.

Think of it as your "Maritime Passport." It does not just identify you; it serves as a permanent official record of your sea service. Every time you "sign-on" or "sign-off" a vessel, the Master of the ship records the dates and details in this booklet. Without a CDC, you cannot legally work on a merchant vessel. To know more please read this blog on ‘What is a CDC or Seaman’s book?’

Guide to applying for an Indian CDC – 

1. Eligibility Criteria – 

Before you start your application, ensure you meet these basic requirements:

• Nationality: Must be an Indian citizen with a valid passport
• Age: Minimum 18 years at the time of application
• Education: Minimum 10th Standard pass from a recognized board
• Training: You must have completed the 5 Basic STCW Courses:
  1. Personal Survival Techniques (PST)
  2. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (FPFF)
  3. Elementary First Aid (EFA)
  4. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (PSSR)
  5. Security Training for Seafarers with Designated Security Duties (STSDSD)
• Medical Fitness: A valid medical certificate from a DGS-approved doctor

2. Pre-requisites: The INDoS Number

Before applying for a CDC, you must have an INDoS (Indian National Database of Seafarers) Number.

• This is usually generated by your training institute when you complete your STCW courses.
• Action Step: Log in to the DG Shipping E-Governance Portal and ensure your Seafarer Profile is 100% updated with your photo, signature, and educational details.

3. Step-by-Step Online Application Process

The application is now entirely digital. Follow these steps:

• Login: Go to the DGS website -> E-governance and log in using your INDoS number and password

• Navigate: Click on "CDC Management & CoC as Cook" then select "Submit Application" -> "CDC Application". Read the instructions carefully before clicking on “Continue” 

• Select Port: You can choose the Shipping Master's Office (Mumbai, Kolkata, or Chennai) that will process your application.
• Fill Details: The form will pull most details from your profile. Ensure your Address, Next of Kin, STCW course, and Medical Certificate details are accurate.

• Fee Payment: The standard application fee is typically ₹700 (though always check for recent updates in the fee schedule). Payment is made online via the integrated gateway.
• Upload Documents: This is the most critical part. Ensure your scans are clear and meet the size requirements (usually PDF for documents and JPG for photos).

Document Checklist - 

Ensure you have these ready for upload:

• Passport: Scanned color copies of the first and last pages.
• Education certificates: Colored scan of 10th Marksheet/Certificate
• Medical Certificate: Colored scans of annexure IV & V certificate issued by a DGS-approved doctor.
• STCW Certificates: Often these are auto-fetched if updated by your training institute on E-governance
• Photo: Recent passport-size (3.5cm x 3.5cm) with a white background.
• Signature: Scanned signature (1.5cm x 3.5cm) in black ink on white paper.
• Final Submission: After payment and upload, generate your application number and submit.

4. Tracking and Delivery

Once submitted, you can track the status under the "Others" tab in your profile.

• Verification: The Shipping Master’s office will verify your documents. If there's an error, you'll receive a "Query" which you must answer promptly.
• Approval: Once approved, your CDC number is generated.
• Dispatch: The physical booklet is sent via Speed Post to the address mentioned in your profile.

5. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many seafarers face delays or rejections due to simple clerical errors. Here are the top mistakes to watch out for:

• Name and Detail Mismatches: Ensure your name and father’s name are identical across all documents. Even a small spelling difference between your INDoS profile and Passport will lead to a rejection.
• Incomplete Place of Birth: Be specific. Instead of just writing for eg. "Mumbai," provide the full location, such as "Mumbai, Maharashtra". If this is missing, you may later require a correction entry on the additional office use pages.
• Incorrect Address Format: Your permanent address must be complete and match your address proof. For example, include the house number, estate name, road, city, and correct PIN code 
• Photo and Signature Quality: Uploading a blurry photo or a signature not in black ink can cause immediate rejection. The photo should have a plain white background.
• Inaccurate Next of Kin (NOK) Info: Double-check the relationship and address for your NOK. Errors here, such as a missing father's name or incorrect address, can complicate insurance and emergency procedures.

Note - Remember, never send original documents by post unless specifically asked for a replacement or duplicate. The process is 100% Online, and your original certificates stay with you!

Conclusion -

Applying for a Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC) is a crucial step for anyone aspiring to work at sea. It is more than just a formality — it is the official record of your maritime career and a mandatory requirement for joining merchant vessels.

So, are you ready to start your journey? Head over to the DG Shipping portal and get your maritime career moving!

This Blog is authored by Akshay Shrivastav 

Details about the Author

Akshay Shrivastav holds a Bachelor's degree in Nautical Science from Indian Maritime University, complemented by pre-sea training at the International Maritime Institute. He currently serves as a Navigation and Operations Officer at Anglo-Eastern, managing ship navigation, cargo operations, and logistics with expertise in vessel oversight, tank cleaning coordination, and safety compliance during loading and unloading. At Anglo-Eastern, Akshay Shrivastav collaborates with teams to command vessels, streamline maritime operations, and assist senior officers in preparing for inspections and audits to uphold top standards. Driven by safety and precision, he seeks to apply a structured, detail-focused mindset to drive organizational success, while promoting teamwork and operational efficiency.