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How to Apply for a Veterinary Drug License – 2026 Guide
Drug License

Wed, Jan 21 2026

Raju Karn

How to Apply for a Veterinary Drug License – 2026 Guide

If you want to sell, store, or distribute veterinary medicines in India, you must have a veterinary drug license. These medicines are used for animals, but the rules are still strict because improper handling can harm animals, humans, and the environment.

Many people think drug licenses are only for human medicines. That is not true. Veterinary drugs are also regulated under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, and operating without a valid license can lead to penalties and closure. This guide explains the entire process in simple words so anyone can understand it easily.

What Is a Veterinary Drug License?

A veterinary drug license is legal permission issued by the State Drug Control Department. It allows a business to sell or distribute medicines meant for animals such as cattle, pets, poultry, and livestock.

Depending on your business type, the license may be:

Both types follow similar rules, but wholesale licenses have stricter requirements.

Why Is a Veterinary Drug License Required?

Veterinary medicines include antibiotics, vaccines, injections, and hormones. If these drugs are misused or sold without control, they can:

➜ Harm animals

➜ Enter the food chain

➜ Create antibiotic resistance

➜ Risk public health

To prevent this, the government requires proper licensing and monitoring.

Who Needs a Veterinary Drug License?

You need a veterinary drug license if you are:

➤ Opening a veterinary medical store

➤ Running a wholesale veterinary medicine business

➤ Supplying medicines to veterinary hospitals or clinics

➤ Distributing animal vaccines or injections

Even small shops must comply with licensing rules.

Benefits of Having a Veterinary Drug License

A valid license:

↔ Makes your business legally compliant

↔ Builds trust with veterinarians and customers

↔ Prevents penalties and seizures

↔ Allows smooth and long-term business growth

Forms Used: Form 20 & 21 Drug License

The most common forms used for veterinary drug licensing are:

  • Form 20 – Retail sale of drugs (other than Schedule C, C1, and X)
  • Form 21 – Retail sale of Schedule C & C1 drugs (vaccines, injections)

Wholesale licenses also use similar forms depending on the drug category.

Documents Required for Veterinary Drug License

To apply for a veterinary drug license, you will need basic business and premises documents. Authorities mainly check whether your setup is safe and compliant.

Commonly required documents include:

→ Filled Form 19 application

→ Proof of business registration (GST, PAN)

→ Ownership or rent agreement of premises

→ Site plan and layout

→ Details of qualified person or competent staff

→ Refrigerator invoice (for temperature-sensitive drugs)

→ Affidavit and undertaking

Correct documentation helps avoid delays.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for Veterinary Drug License

First, make sure your premises meet the minimum space and storage requirements. Once ready, submit the application online or offline through the State Drug Control Department.

After submission, a drug inspector may visit the premises to verify:

  • Storage conditions
  • Record-keeping
  • Presence of qualified staff

If everything is found satisfactory, the license is granted.

Validity and Drug License Renewal

A veterinary drug license is usually valid for five years.
You must apply for drug license renewal before the expiry date to continue operations without interruption.

Late renewal can lead to penalties or suspension.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many applicants face issues due to:

▪ Incomplete forms

▪ Inadequate storage facilities

▪ No qualified person on record

▪ Delayed renewal

Planning in advance helps avoid these problems.

Need Help with Veterinary Drug License Application?

If you are planning to sell or distribute veterinary medicines, having the correct drug license is essential. The application process can feel confusing, especially for first-time applicants.

PSR Compliance helps you understand the veterinary drug license process in simple language. From preparing documents to application filing, inspection support, and renewal guidance, we make the entire process smooth and stress-free.

📞 Call PSR Compliance: 7065883416

FAQs on Veterinary Drug License

What are the essential requirements for a Veterinary Drug License in India?
Premises, qualified staff, and proper documentation are mandatory for retail, wholesale, or specialized storage of veterinary drugs.

What are the different types of Veterinary Drug Licenses?
Retail, Wholesale, Manufacturing, and Loan Licenses cover all veterinary drug business models.

How can I apply for a Veterinary Drug License online?
Applications are submitted via the SUGAM portal by registering, uploading documents, and paying fees online.

What is the process for obtaining a license to import or manufacture new veterinary drugs?
Register with Form 40, obtain an import license with Form 10, and apply for testing via Form 11 under CDSCO approval.

What are the requirements for starting a Veterinary Pharma Franchise?
A valid drug license, GST, trade license, and cold storage for vaccines are required.

Are there specific requirements for selling veterinary vaccines or biologicals?
Specialized storage like refrigerators/deep freezers and strict cold chain maintenance are mandatory.

What is the fee structure and approval time for a Veterinary Drug License?
Fees vary by license type, with approvals generally taking a minimum of 30 days after inspection.

Which regulatory body governs Veterinary Drug Licenses in India?
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) oversees veterinary drug licensing.

Under which act are Veterinary Drug Licenses issued?
Licenses are issued under the Drugs & Cosmetics Act, 1940 and the Rules, 1945.

Which portal is used for online Veterinary Drug License applications?
The SUGAM portal (cdscoonline.gov.in) is the official platform for all applications.

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