Your Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC) is your most important professional document. Without it, you cannot join any ship. Renewing it on time is not optional — it is a career requirement.
Since the migration to dgma.gov.in (the new official DGMA portal), the entire CDC renewal process is online. This guide walks you through every step.
What Is a CDC and When Does It Need Renewal?
The CDC is issued under the Merchant Shipping Act and serves as:
- Proof of your identity as an Indian seafarer
- A record of your sea service (every ship joined and left is endorsed in it)
- A statutory document required for signing on any vessel
CDC validity: Indian CDCs are typically valid for 10 years from the date of issue. However, your CDC can also be “filled up” (all pages used) before the 10-year limit, requiring a replacement.
You need a new CDC when:
- Your current CDC has expired (10-year limit)
- All pages are filled with sea service entries
- Your CDC is lost or damaged (requires Duplicate CDC application)
- Your personal details have changed (name correction)
Documents Required for CDC Renewal
Prepare these before starting the application:
| Document | Specification |
|---|---|
| Existing CDC (original) | For renewal — must be the expiring/full document |
| Passport (valid) | Minimum 6 months validity; color scanned copy |
| INDOS Certificate | Your unique INDOS number document |
| Class 10 Certificate | For name/date of birth verification |
| Pre-sea Course Completion Certificate | Original from your training institute |
| Medical Fitness Certificate | From a DGMA-approved Medical Examiner |
| Passport-size Photograph | Recent, white background |
All documents must be self-attested color scans in PDF/JPEG format, under 1 MB each.
Step-by-Step: CDC Renewal Application on dgma.gov.in
Step 1: Login to e-Samudra Portal
- Go to https://dgma.gov.in
- Click on e-Samudra Portal / Seafarer Services
- Login with your INDOS number and registered mobile
- Enter the OTP received on your mobile
Step 2: Navigate to CDC Services
- After login, go to “Seafarer Services” → “CDC”
- Select “Apply for Renewal of CDC”
Step 3: Verify Pre-filled Details
- Your name, date of birth, INDOS number, and existing CDC details will be pre-filled from your profile
- Verify all details carefully before proceeding
- Any discrepancy must be corrected with supporting documents
Step 4: Upload Documents
- Upload each required document in the specified format and size
- Ensure photographs are recent (not more than 3 months old)
- Double-check all uploads before submission
Step 5: Pay Application Fee
- Fee payment is online only — Credit Card, Debit Card, Net Banking, UPI
- Keep the payment receipt / transaction ID — you will need it for tracking
- Current fee: Verify the current fee on dgma.gov.in as fees are subject to revision
Step 6: Submit and Track
- After submission, you receive an acknowledgement number
- Track your application status at dgma.gov.in using your INDOS number or application reference
- Processing typically takes 15–30 working days under normal circumstances
Step 7: Collection
- Once approved, the new CDC is dispatched via Speed Post to your registered address
- An e-CDC copy may also be available for download in your e-Samudra profile
- Ensure your address is correct in your profile before submission
Common Mistakes That Delay CDC Applications
- Uploading blurry or incomplete scans — every document must be clearly legible
- Mismatched name spelling across CDC, passport, and school certificates — this causes rejection
- Expired medical certificate — the fitness certificate must be current at time of application
- Wrong INDOS number in profile — verify before submitting
- Not linking existing INDOS to the e-Samudra profile before applying
What to Do If Your CDC Application Is Rejected
Rejections are communicated through your registered email and e-Samudra account. Reasons are specified. The most common:
- Document quality insufficient → resubmit with clearer scans
- Mismatch in personal details → submit supporting affidavit and correction documents
- Medical certificate expired → get fresh medical and resubmit
For persistent issues, contact your jurisdictional MMD directly or call DGS Helpline: 9004048406
Need Help With This Process?
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Internal Links
- How to Use the New DGMA Website 2026
- INDOS Registration Step by Step 2026
- DG Shipping Medical Fitness — Complete Guide
- How to Get Your Passport for Seafarers (Tatkal Guide)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long before my CDC expires should I apply for renewal?
A: Apply at least 3 months before expiry. Processing takes 15–30 working days in normal circumstances. Running your CDC to expiry creates risk of being unable to join a ship.
Q: Can I still work with an expired CDC?
A: No. An expired CDC means you cannot sign on any vessel. If your CDC has expired, apply immediately and carry your acknowledgement of application.
Q: Is there a late fee for expired CDC renewal?
A: Verify current fee structure on dgma.gov.in. There may be additional requirements for significantly expired CDCs.
Q: My CDC is lost at sea. What do I apply for?
A: Apply for a Duplicate CDC through the same e-Samudra portal. You will need an FIR (First Information Report) or equivalent document establishing the loss, plus a notarized declaration.
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