CDC India: Complete Guide to Get, Renew & Replace Your Discharge Book

The Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC) is the most fundamental document for any Indian seafarer. Without it, you cannot join a ship. Here’s the complete, step-by-step guide — from first application to renewal and replacement.

What Is CDC?

The CDC (also called Seafarer’s Identity Document or Discharge Book) is issued by the Directorate General of Shipping under the STCW Convention. It serves as:

• Your official seafarer identity document
• A record of all your sea service (vessels, ranks, dates)
• Proof of nationality and identity at ports worldwide

India’s CDC is an internationally recognized STCW document.

First-Time CDC Application

Eligibility

• Indian citizen
• Completed minimum pre-sea training at DG Shipping approved institute
• Valid INDoS number registered

Documents Required

1. INDoS Registration Certificate (mandatory)
2. Pre-sea training certificate from DG-approved institute
3. Indian Passport (valid)
4. Passport size photographs (white background, 35x45mm)
5. Medical fitness certificate (ENG1 standard)
6. Age proof (birth certificate / SSC marksheet)
7. Address proof

Application Process

1. Visit dgshipping.gov.in → Seafarer Services → CDC Application
2. Create account if not existing
3. Fill online form with all personal and training details
4. Upload all documents (PDF/JPG format)
5. Pay application fee online (₹500 approximate — check current fee on portal)
6. Schedule appointment at nearest MMD (Mercantile Marine Department)
7. Appear in person with original documents on appointment date
8. CDC issued typically within 7-15 working days

MMD Office Locations

Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Kochi, Vizag — each handles their region. Apply at the MMD closest to your permanent address.

CDC Renewal

CDC must be renewed every 10 years. Renewal process:

1. Apply online via DG Shipping portal
2. Submit: existing CDC, valid passport, updated medical certificate, updated STCW endorsements
3. Renewal fee payment
4. In-person MMD visit

Important: Start renewal at least 6 months before expiry. Expired CDC cannot be used for ship joining.

Lost CDC — What to Do

1. File FIR at nearest police station (mandatory)
2. Collect FIR copy
3. Apply for duplicate CDC via DG Shipping portal — select “Duplicate/Replacement”
4. Submit FIR copy, affidavit, passport copy, photos
5. Higher fee applicable for duplicate

On board when CDC is lost: Inform Master immediately. Master records in deck log. Company handles emergency document procedures with port state.

CDC Status Check Online

Track your CDC application status at: dgshipping.gov.in → Track Application

Use your application reference number received during submission.

Common CDC Problems & Solutions

Problem	Solution
Name mismatch with passport	Submit affidavit + both documents at MMD
Photo rejected	Resubmit strictly white background, neutral expression
MMD appointment not available	Use Tatkal slot if urgent joining
Expired CDC caught at PSC	Notify company immediately; they handle extensions

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Questions about CDC or other seafarer documents? Ask SailorGPT — instant answers on all DG Shipping documentation.