DGS Circular No. 45 of 2026 Awareness regarding revised eligibility criteria for issuance of Indian CDC and compliance by DG approved Maritime Training Institutes (MTIs)
Issued 31 Jul 2026 · Effective 1 Aug 2026
In short
This circular raises awareness about revised CDC eligibility rules from DGS Order No. 12 of 2026.
It tells prospective seafarers to check rules before joining basic STCW courses and warns that CDC issuance on five basic courses alone ends from 1 August 2026 except for permitted categories.
MTIs must display updated eligibility details and must not enroll candidates who seek only CDC without approved pre-sea training.
Violations may lead to institute approval being suspended or withdrawn.
Official PDF
DGS Circular No. 45 of 2026 - Awareness regarding revised eligibility criteria for issuance of Indian CDC and compliance
0.7 MB · 2 pages
Key points
- CDC on five basic STCW courses alone ends from 1 August 2026 except permitted categories
- Candidates must verify eligibility before paying fees as refunds are not allowed
- MTIs must display revised eligibility on all admission materials
- MTIs must not accept applications for basic courses solely for CDC or INDOS without pre-sea training
Who it affects
- prospective seafarers and candidates
- DG-approved Maritime Training Institutes (MTIs)
- all stakeholders
What you need to do
- Read DGS Order No. 12 of 2026 before applying for basic courses
- Verify eligibility and MTI approval through official channels before enrolling
- MTIs must update websites, brochures and forms with new eligibility rules
- MTIs must refuse admission to ineligible candidates seeking only CDC
Questions and answers
When does the change in CDC issuance start?
From 1 August 2026 the CDC will no longer be issued on completion of only the five basic STCW courses except for permitted categories.
What happens if I pay fees but later find I am ineligible?
Fees paid through BharatKosh are not refundable on grounds of ineligibility.
What must MTIs display on their websites and forms?
They must prominently display the revised CDC eligibility requirements from DGS Order No. 12 of 2026.
Can MTIs enroll candidates who want only the five basic courses for a CDC?
No, MTIs are directed not to accept or process such applications unless the candidate falls in an eligible category under the order.
What penalty can MTIs face for non-compliance?
Violations may attract administrative action including suspension or withdrawal of institute approval.
Summary prepared by Eurotech Maritime Academy for reference. The attached PDF is the official text issued by the Directorate General of Shipping.
