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Thu, Jan 22 2026
Raju Karn
If you are planning to open a small medical store or pharmacy, getting a drug license is the first and most important step. Many people get confused about what documents are needed, who should apply, and what rules must be followed.
This checklist explains everything in simple words so you can prepare properly and avoid delays or rejection.
Before applying, first understand which license is required:
👉 Most small pharmacies start with a Retail Drug License (Form 20 & 21).
Your shop must meet basic physical requirements:
➜ Minimum 10 sq. meters for retail pharmacy
➜ 15 sq. meters if retail + wholesale
➜ Proper ventilation and lighting
➜ Clean and hygienic condition
Shop must be in a commercial or approved mixed-use area
Medicines must be stored safely:
⁃ Refrigerator for vaccines and temperature-sensitive medicines
⁃ Air conditioner or proper cooling arrangement
⁃ Shelves and racks to store medicines properly
⁃ No expired or damaged drugs on display
This is a mandatory rule:
▪ A registered pharmacist must be appointed
▪ Pharmacist must be registered with the State Pharmacy Council
▪ Pharmacist must be present during working hours
▪ One pharmacist cannot work at two pharmacies
Keep these documents ready before applying:
→ Filled Form 19 application
→ Shop ownership proof or rent agreement + NOC
→ Site plan & layout of the pharmacy
→ Pharmacist qualification certificate
→ Pharmacist registration certificate
→ Pharmacist affidavit
→ Refrigerator purchase invoice
→ Owner’s PAN & Aadhaar
→ GST registration
→ Partnership deed / MOA / AOA (if applicable)
● Register on the State Drug Control / CDSCO portal
● Fill the application form online
● Upload all documents
● Pay government fees
● Submit application
After submission, a drug inspector will visit the shop for inspection.
‣ During inspection, authorities usually check:
‣ Shop size and cleanliness
‣ Refrigerator and storage conditions
‣ Presence of pharmacist
‣ Document verification
‣ Display of license application receipt
🛈 Applying without a registered pharmacist
🛈 Wrong shop area or residential location
🛈 Missing documents
🛈 Improper storage arrangements
🛈 Delay in responding to inspection queries
Your Pharmacy License, Done the Right Way
PSR Compliance helps small pharmacy owners by:
☑ Explaining rules in simple language
☑ Preparing documents correctly
☑ Filing applications online
☑ Coordinating inspections
☑ Avoiding rejection and delays
📞 Call PSR Compliance: 7065883416One conversation today can save months of trouble later.
A standalone retail pharmacy requires a minimum of 10 sq. meters, and if applying for both retail and wholesale licenses, 15 sq. meters. The minimum ceiling height must be 2.75 meters.
Yes, a registered pharmacist is required to operate the pharmacy and must be present during all working hours. If they leave, a replacement must be appointed within 30 days.
Mandatory equipment includes a refrigerator (2–8°C for vaccines/biologics), proper storage racks and locked cupboards, and an independent shop premises. Air-conditioning is recommended for temperature-sensitive drugs.
Key documents include:
The license is valid for 5 years. Renewal must be done 30–90 days before expiry to avoid penalties.
Generally, no. A drug license is not granted for residential plots unless the premises comply with local regulations and have a separate commercial entrance.
After submission, a Drug Inspector (DI) will inspect the premises to verify layout, infrastructure, and pharmacist presence before issuing the license.