Drug License

A Drug License is an official authorization issued by the competent licensing authority — the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) or the State Drug Control Authority — under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945. It permits eligible businesses such as pharmacies, medical stores, wholesalers, distributors, hospitals, clinics, and pharmaceutical manufacturers to legally engage in activities involving pharmaceutical products and medicines.

Depending on the nature of the business, different categories of licence may be required — including a Retail Drug Licence (Form 20 & 21) for medical shops, a Wholesale Drug Licence (Form 20B & 21B) for distributors, and a Manufacturing Licence for production units — and every applicant must operate under the supervision of a competent registered pharmacist. A valid Drug Licence ensures that medicines are stored, handled, distributed, and sold in accordance with prescribed safety and quality standards, protecting both the business and the public.