CDC and INDoS — How to Apply in 2026

The CDC (Continuous Discharge Certificate) and INDoS (Indian National Database of Seafarers) number are the two most critical documents for any Indian seafarer. Without them, you cannot sail on any Indian-flagged ship and very few foreign-flagged ones. Here is the complete application process.

What Is the CDC?

The CDC (Continuous Discharge Certificate) is the primary identity and service record document for Indian seafarers, issued by DG Shipping (Directorate General of Shipping) under the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958.

What it contains:

• Your personal details and photograph
• A record of every ship you’ve sailed on (date joined, date signed off, rank, vessel name)
• It serves as proof of sea service — essential for CoC exams and foreign company applications

Format: The current CDC is a booklet (similar to a passport) with endorsement pages for each contract.

What Is INDoS?

INDoS (Indian National Database of Seafarers) is the online database maintained by DG Shipping. Your INDoS number is a unique identifier that appears on all your certificates and is used to verify your credentials internationally.

When you register on INDoS: You create your profile with personal details, educational qualifications, and STCW certificates. Companies and port state control inspectors can verify your certificates online using your INDoS number.

Who Needs to Apply?

• First-time applicants: Every Indian joining merchant navy for the first time
• CDC renewal: CDC has a validity period — renew before it expires
• INDoS update: Must update INDoS whenever you get new certificates, change of address, or renew passport

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: INDoS Registration (Do This First)

Website: seafarers.dgshipping.gov.in

1. Go to the portal → “New Registration” for seafarers
2. Create account with your email and mobile number
3. Fill in personal details exactly as per your 10th certificate (name, date of birth)
4. Upload required documents (scanned copies):
   • 10th marksheet (proof of date of birth)
   • 12th marksheet
   • Degree/diploma certificate (if applicable)
   • Passport (bio page)
   • Passport size photograph (white background, as per spec)
5. Submit and note your INDoS application number
6. INDoS number is typically allotted within 7–14 working days (if documents are in order)

INDoS is free — no fees.

Step 2: STCW Basic Safety Training

Before applying for CDC, you need the 4 basic STCW certificates (PSSR, EFA, FPFF, PST). These should be done at a DG approved institute. The certificates must be in the DG Shipping approved format and uploaded to INDoS.

Step 3: ENG1 Medical Certificate

Get ENG1 medical from a DG Shipping approved doctor. Your health must be certified before CDC is issued.

Find approved doctors at: dgshipping.gov.in → Forms/Circulars → List of approved medical practitioners

Step 4: CDC Application

Application through: seafarers.dgshipping.gov.in → “Apply for CDC”

Documents required (as of 2026 — verify current list on portal):

• INDoS number (already registered)
• Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
• ENG1 medical certificate (valid)
• Educational certificates (10th, 12th, degree/diploma)
• STCW basic certificates (all 4: PSSR, EFA, FPFF, PST)
• Pre-sea training certificate (for fresh candidates)
• Photographs (passport size, white background)
• Demand draft / online payment for fees

Current CDC fee (verify on portal — subject to change): Approximately ₹500–1,500 for fresh issuance

Submission: Online application + in-person verification at nearest MMD (Mercantile Marine Department) office.

MMD offices: Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Kochi, Visakhapatnam, Goa, Port Blair

Step 5: Biometric and Verification

After submitting the application, you are called to the MMD office for:

• Biometric data (fingerprint, photograph taken at office)
• Original document verification (bring all originals)
• Interview/verification by surveyor (brief — mainly checks documents are genuine)

Step 6: CDC Issuance

After successful verification, CDC is typically issued within 15–30 working days (in-person collection at MMD) or dispatched by post.

Tatkal option: Faster processing is available for an additional fee. Useful if you have a joining notice.

Common Reasons for Rejection / Delay

1. Name mismatch: Name on 10th certificate vs passport must match exactly. Even minor differences (Mohan vs Mohon) cause rejection.
2. Photograph not as per spec: Background, size, pose all matter.
3. Unsigned documents: Self-attested copies must be signed.
4. Incomplete STCW: Missing one of the 4 basic courses = rejection.
5. Medical issues: Colour blindness declared — MMD may issue a restricted CDC.

CDC Validity and Renewal

Current CDC has a 10-year validity (for holders below 40 years). After 40, validity is reduced.

Renewal process: Similar to fresh application but simpler — existing records in INDoS simplify the process.

Important: Don’t let your CDC expire while on leave. Many companies have standing instructions to not sign on officers with CDC expiring within 6 months of intended sign-off.

Stuck with your CDC application or need guidance on a specific MMD? Chat with SailorGPT for step-by-step help.