Step by step guide on CDC renewal

Whether your Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC) is nearing its 10-year expiry or you have run out of pages for voyage entries, keeping this document valid is non-negotiable for a seafarer. In the digital era of the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), the process has become significantly streamlined.

This guide will walk you through the steps to re-validate (renew) your Indian CDC, ensuring you do not hit any anchors during the process.

Renewal vs. Replacement of CDC

Before you apply, you must choose the correct path:

• Renewal (Re-validation): If your CDC has expired or is about to expire, but you still have blank pages and your CDC is in good condition. You must apply for a renewal of CDC. In this, you will receive a Renewal Sticker to affix to the "Additional Pages" of your current booklet.
• Replacement: If your CDC is physically damaged, mutilated, torn, or filled up with stamps, or contains errors that need fixing. You must apply for replacement of CDC. In this, you will receive a New CDC Booklet. However, you will have to send your original CDC booklet to the shipping master’s office along with the signed online application.

In this blog, we will guide you on the CDC renewal process –

 Step-by-Step Application Process

• 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" and then select "Submit Application" > "Renewal CDC" 

• Verify Details: The system will pull data like your name and CDC number. Double-check the information and fill-up remaining info and the address section
• Generate application no.: In the fourth tab, Click on the ‘Generate application no.’ button

• Fee Payment: After generating the application no., Payment page will open. Fee payment can also be done from the ‘others’ tab on the top left corner. Pay the non-refundable fee of ₹700 via the online payment gateway

• Upload Documents: Upload clear, color-scanned copies of the required documents from the ‘others’ tab -

Document Checklist -

• Signed Online Application: A scanned copy of the printed and signed form
• Passport Photo: Size 3.5 cm x 3.5 cm with a clear white background. Crucially, the face must cover 70% of the photo area
• CDC Scans: A self-attested colored scan of the first page and the last two stamped pages of your current CDC 
• Citizenship Proof: A self-attested scan of your Passport (front and back)

• Track Status: Use the "Others” tab to monitor your application. Once "Approved," you will see a Speed Post tracking number

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not scan the whole page when uploading your photograph or signature, select or highlight only the specific image area. Scanning the entire A4 page with the photo in one corner will lead to an immediate rejection.

• Self-Attestation: All uploaded documents (CDC pages and Passport) must be self-attested (signed by you with the date) before scanning.
• Address Accuracy: Ensure your address is accurate.

Note - Once you receive your renewal sticker, sign it immediately with a ballpoint pen before peeling and sticking it into your CDC. This prevents smudging and ensures the validity is legally recorded.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, your Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC) is more than just a booklet; it is the official heartbeat of your maritime career. Whether you are navigating international waters or coastal routes, ensuring this document is valid and accurate is the first step toward a hassle-free voyage. If you are planning to start your maritime journey, please read our blogs on ‘what is a CDC?’ and ‘How to apply for a fresh CDC?’ 

If you require any assistance or have any doubts, feel free to reach out by commenting below.

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.