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Sat, Jan 17 2026
Raju Karn
If you want to start a medical shop, wholesale medicine business, or any work related to medicines in Hyderabad, having a drug license is compulsory. This license is issued by the drug control authorities and allows you to legally sell, store, or distribute medicines. Without a valid drug license, running a medicine-related business is not allowed in India and can lead to penalties or closure.
Many people find the process confusing because of forms, documents, and inspections. This blog explains the drug license process in Hyderabad in very simple language, covering who needs it, how to apply, and what to keep in mind, so anyone can understand it easily without legal confusion.
A drug license is an official permission given by the Drug Control Department.It allows a person or business to sell, store, or distribute medicines legally.
In Hyderabad, drug licenses are issued by the Telangana Drug Control Administration (DCA).At the central level, medicines are regulated by CDSCO.
Different businesses need different types of licenses.
➜ Retail Drug License – for medical shops selling medicines to customers
➜ Wholesale Drug License – for businesses supplying medicines to shops or hospitals
➜ Manufacturing Drug License – for companies making medicines
Most retail and wholesale businesses apply for Form 20 and Form 21 together.
These forms are part of the drug license application.
Having a valid drug license:
➞ Allows you to sell medicines legally
➞ Builds trust with customers and suppliers
➞ Protects you from legal penalties
➞ Helps in business growth
You need a drug license if you are:
➤ Opening a pharmacy or medical store
➤ Running a wholesale medicine business
➤ Supplying medicines to hospitals or clinics
➤ Distributing pharmaceutical products
The process is simple if done correctly.
Step 1: Collect all required documentsStep 2: Apply online through the drug control portalStep 3: Pay the government feesStep 4: Drug inspector visits the premisesStep 5: License is approved and issued
Some common documents include:
→ ID proof of applicant
→ Address proof of shop or warehouse
→ Shop layout plan
→ Appointment letter of registered pharmacist
→ Qualification certificates
→ Declaration and affidavit
A drug license is not permanent.It must be renewed before the expiry date.
For drug license renewal, you usually need:
⁃ Existing drug license copy
⁃ Updated documents
⁃ Renewal fee payment
Late renewal can cause penalties or suspension.
Once approved:
CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organization) controls drug safety at the national level.It works with state authorities and regulates:
‣ New drugs
‣ Imported medicines
‣ Clinical trials
Many people find the drug license process confusing due to forms and rules.PSR Compliance helps by guiding applicants in a clear and simple way.
PSR Compliance helps by:
✔ Explaining drug license rules in easy language
✔ Assisting with Form 20 and Form 21 applications
✔ Supporting drug license renewal
✔ Helping avoid mistakes and delays
If you are planning to apply for a drug license in Hyderabad or are unsure about the process, getting the right guidance can save time and effort.
📞 Speak with a compliance expert at PSR Compliance: 7065883416Get clear answers and move forward with confidence.
To open a pharmacy, a minimum area of 10 square meters is required for retail or wholesale and 15 square meters for combined licenses, along with proper storage facilities, a refrigerator, and a qualified registered pharmacist.
Yes, a registered pharmacist must be present during all working hours of a retail pharmacy, as mandated under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act and State Pharmacy Council regulations.
Drug license applications in Telangana are submitted online through the ONDLS portal on the DCA Telangana website by registering, filling the required forms, and uploading supporting documents.
Documents required include Form 19, proof of ownership or rental of premises, a site layout plan, refrigerator purchase invoice, and an affidavit from the registered pharmacist.
A drug license is valid for five years and must be renewed online through the ONDLS portal, preferably at least three months before the expiry date.
The processing time for grant or renewal of a retail or wholesale drug license is generally 14 to 30 days, provided all documents are complete and verified.
No, a registered pharmacist is legally permitted to work at only one pharmacy at a time and cannot be registered at multiple locations simultaneously.