How to Get CDSCO Registration: Process, Documents & Benefits
Complete Guide to CDSCO Registration & Certification for Indian Businesses
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) is India’s national regulatory authority responsible for the approval, oversight, and quality control of drugs, medical devices, cosmetics, and diagnostics.
Any business involved in manufacturing, importing, selling, distributing, or testing medical products must obtain CDSCO Registration or CDSCO Certification before entering the Indian market. This regulatory framework ensures that only safe, effective, and high-quality products are made available to consumers.
What Is CDSCO Registration?
CDSCO Registration is the mandatory authorization required for companies dealing in drugs, medical devices, in-vitro diagnostic kits, blood products, and cosmetics. This registration ensures that the product meets Indian safety, quality, and performance standards. Depending on the product type, businesses may require:
- Manufacturing license
- Import license
- Wholesale or retail license
- Test license
- Medical device registration under MDR 2017
CDSCO also categorizes medical devices into Class A, B, C, and D, based on risk level, and the compliance requirements vary accordingly.
What Is CDSCO Certification?
CDSCO Certification is a formal approval confirming that a product complies with standards established by the Drug and Cosmetic Act, 1940 and Medical Device Rules, 2017. This certification is essential for:
- Importing medical devices
- Launching new drugs
- Manufacturing high-risk medical devices
- Marketing cosmetics in India
- Selling diagnostic kits
Without CDSCO Certification, a product cannot legally enter the Indian healthcare market.
Why Businesses Need CDSCO Compliance
India is a rapidly growing market for pharmaceuticals and medical devices. To ensure ethical practices, safety, and transparency, CDSCO mandates strict compliance. Businesses that obtain CDSCO Registration and Certification gain:
- Higher credibility in the marketplace
- Legal permission to operate
- Better acceptance by hospitals, clinics, and distributors
- Access to government tenders
- Protection against penalties, product seizures, and legal issues
Compliance also enhances consumer trust, which is crucial in healthcare industries.
Role of a CDSCO Consultant
The CDSCO approval process can be complex due to legal requirements, technical documentation, testing procedures, and audits. Hiring a professional CDSCO Consultant makes the process faster, error-free, and compliant. A consultant helps with:
- Product classification (Class A–D)
- Preparation of regulatory documents
- Filing applications on SUGAM portal
- Device Master File (DMF) & Plant Master File (PMF)
- Submission of clinical evaluation reports
- Handling queries from authorities
- Renewals and post-approval compliance
A qualified consultant ensures your registration or certification is completed without delays or rejections.
Read: Udyam Re-Registration: Keeping Your MSME Identity
CDSCO Registration Process (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Product Classification
Identify whether your product is a drug, cosmetic, or medical device and determine its category or class.
Step 2: Documentation Preparation
Key documents include:
- Manufacturing or import details
- ISO 13485 certificate for medical devices
- Free Sale Certificate (for importers)
- DMF/PMF (for devices)
- Labels, packaging details
- Authorized Indian agent details (for foreign companies)
Step 3: Application Submission on SUGAM
All registrations are filed digitally through the CDSCO SUGAM Portal.
Step 4: Evaluation & Query Resolution
Authorities check documents and may request clarifications.
Step 5: Inspection & Testing
High-risk devices require clinical evaluation or third-party testing.
Step 6: Grant of Certificate
Once approved, the business receives the license or certificate, valid for a specific period.
Business Registration for CDSCO Operations
To obtain CDSCO Registration, the applicant must be a legally registered business in India. Common business structures include:
- Sole Proprietorship
- Partnership Firm
- LLP
- Private Limited Company
- One Person Company
Business registration provides a legal identity and is mandatory for obtaining drug and medical device licenses.
Why Choose Professional CDSCO Consultation Services?
A professional consultant helps businesses avoid document errors, rejected applications, and long approval delays. They ensure:
- 100% compliance with CDSCO rules
- Accurate documentation
- Timely approvals
- End-to-end support from registration to renewal
This is especially important for startups, importers, and foreign manufacturers entering the Indian market.