How to Apply for a CDC (Continuous Discharge Certificate)

The Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC) is a vital document for anyone wishing to pursue a career in the Merchant Navy. Without it, one cannot officially join a ship or record sea service. For students after 12th aiming to build a maritime career, knowing how to apply for a CDC is a crucial step.

At Skill Station, we meet numerous young aspirants who are enthusiastic about joining the Merchant Navy but are unaware of the official documentation process. In this guide, we break down how to apply for a CDC step-by-step, along with tips, eligibility criteria, and expert advice.

What Is a CDC and Why Is It Important?

A CDC is an official identity document issued by the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), Government of India. It serves as:

Proof of a seafarer’s Indian nationality
Record of sea service
An essential document for job applications onboard ships

Hence, anyone serious about this field must understand how to apply for a CDC and ensure compliance with DGS norms.

Who Needs to Apply for a CDC?

Anyone aspiring to join the Merchant Navy must apply for a CDC, especially if they’ve completed or are planning to enroll in any of the following:

GP Rating Course
STCW Basic Safety Training
Saloon Rating
Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) Training

Students often ask at Skill Station whether CDC is needed before training. The answer is – you usually apply after completing a DGS-approved course and clearing medicals.

Eligibility Criteria: Are You Ready to Apply?

Before we dive into how to apply for a CDC, make sure you meet the following conditions:

Must be an Indian citizen
Age: 17.5 years to 25 years (for most entry-level roles)
Completed a DGS-approved pre-sea training course
Cleared the medical examination by a DGS-approved doctor
Completed STCW courses

Meeting these requirements ensures your CDC application gets accepted without unnecessary delays. At Skill Station, we assist students in checking their eligibility before beginning the process.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for a CDC

Let’s break down the process of how to apply for a CDC through the official DG Shipping website:

Step 1: Visit the DG Shipping Website

Go to www.dgshipping.gov.in
Create a profile in the Seafarer Registration section

Step 2: Complete e-Governance Profile

Fill in personal details, qualifications, and training records
Upload scanned copies of required documents:
- Passport-sized photograph
- Signature
- Aadhaar card
- PAN card
- 10th/12th mark sheet
- STCW course certificates
- Medical fitness certificate
- Passport copy

Step 3: Apply for CDC

Navigate to the CDC application section
Fill in the details and upload your recent photograph
Submit scanned documents as per the checklist

Step 4: Pay the Fee

CDC fees (usually between INR 700–1000) can be paid online via net banking, UPI, or credit/debit cards

Step 5: Verification and Approval

Once submitted, your application goes under review
You can track your application status on the portal
Upon approval, the CDC is dispatched to your registered address

Knowing how to apply for a CDC early can save weeks of delay and confusion. Skill Station trains students in filling out forms and document preparation to avoid rejections.

How Long Does It Take to Get a CDC?

After applying, the approval and dispatch usually take around 3–4 weeks. However, errors in documents or incomplete forms can delay the process. That’s why Skill Station encourages students to double-check everything before final submission.

Common Mistakes While Applying

When learning how to apply for a CDC, avoid these common mistakes:

Uploading blurry or incorrect documents
Missing out on required STCW certificates
Entering wrong personal details (especially DOB)
Using an invalid email ID for communication

We guide students through a mock application process at Skill Station to avoid such issues.

Is There a Manual Way to Apply?

No. As of now, CDC applications are processed only through the DG Shipping e-Governance portal. Manual or offline applications are not accepted. If you’re unsure how to apply for a CDC using the online system, Skill Station mentors can assist you step-by-step.

How Skill Station Helps You With CDC Application

At Skill Station, our mentors work with students after their training to:

Check eligibility and prepare the necessary documents
Guide through DG Shipping portal usage
Assist in uploading and verifying entries
Provide updates on application status and troubleshooting

While many can technically apply themselves, the accuracy and efficiency that Skill Station brings significantly reduce the chance of rejection or delay. We show you exactly how to apply for a CDC with complete confidence.

FAQs on How to Apply for a CDC

Q1. Can I apply for a CDC before completing STCW courses?
No. STCW certification is a prerequisite.

Q2. What is the validity of the CDC?
A CDC is generally valid for 10 years and can be renewed.

Q3. Is CDC necessary for all Merchant Navy jobs?
Yes, it’s mandatory to join a ship.

Q4. Can Skill Station help if my CDC application gets rejected?
Yes, we help students reapply correctly and track their status. We offer step-by-step help on how to apply for a CDC again after rejection.

A Real Student Story

Ajay, a student from Rishikesh, joined Skill Station after his 12th. He completed the GP Rating course and needed help applying for a CDC. With Skill Station’s one-on-one guidance, he submitted his application with all correct documents and received his CDC in just 21 days. His success story is one of many who learned exactly how to apply for a CDC the right way.

Final Checklist for CDC Application

Before clicking submit, make sure you:

Have scanned all documents clearly
Cross-checked personal and academic info
Completed your e-Governance profile fully
Paid the application fee
Saved acknowledgment receipt

If you’re not confident in how to apply for a CDC, always seek help from experts like Skill Station to avoid delays.

Conclusion

Knowing how to apply for a CDC is a crucial part of your Merchant Navy journey. Without it, you cannot be considered for shipboard roles. It might seem like a complex process, but with the right guidance, it becomes smooth and manageable.

For seamless application support and expert mentorship, trust Skill Station, the best merchant navy coaching institute in Dehradun, to guide you every step of the way.

Rayyan Alam

11:55 27 Jun 24

I heard about Skill Station from a senior and decided to join. When I got to Dehradun, I was thrilled with the great faculty and environment. Amrinder Sir is amazing – his communication skills, style, and personality are top-notch. He's more than a teacher; he's like a friend, brother, and mentor. Joining Skill Station was the best decision I made. Unlike other places, Sir helps you until you get selected. Last year, I achieved a 5452 rank in IMUCET but didn't get any company sponsorship. However, Sir didn't leave me. He took care of us until we were selected and continued to guide us even after our selection. This year, with his guidance, I improved to a 4600 rank in IMUCET and got sponsored by ESM. Skill Station feels like a family. Thank you, Sir!

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10:40 27 Jun 24

Thank you Team Skills Station!For always guiding me.For not only making a relationship as a teacher-student but also to make a bond like a family members.Special thank to Amrinder Sir for not only helping and guiding us but also to treat us like an elder brother in our all the tough and difficult situation.❤️Thank you to all the members of Skills Station team.- Abhinav Garwal

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One of the best institutes I have seen that not only has good results but also great management. When I joined this institute, I was a bit shy and was not able to speak in public, but now my personality has completely changed. I am confident and bold, and now I like to socialize even more. Because of the teachers and their guidance, I was able to score a good rank in IMU-CET and got sponsored by Anglo.

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08:21 27 Jun 24

I'm a student of skill station by Amrinder sir , I'm a type of student who scared to talk in front of crowd and have a lack of confidence , but after joining skill station family Amrinder sir taught me and helped me in every single step I improved my personality . Our faculties present over there are very supportive , friendly and kind hearted they always present there to help us wherever we need they motivate us to keep growing.One more thing from my side Amrinder sir's classes is not just for interview's it'll always help you further in your life how to stay , how to adjust and how to grow with limited resources. With skill station family I learnt a lot of things .Thanks skill station family specially a great personality Amrinder sir 🙏

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08:14 27 Jun 24

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07:01 26 Jun 24

This is the best institute for Merchant Navy and Communication skills. Amrinder Sir helped me to gain confidence to clear the interviews. He always focuses to develop our personality. I am more confidant and more skillful now.