How to Apply for Dangerous Cargo Certificate: Complete Guide for Seafarers

Introduction

For seafarers, certain certifications are more than just paperwork; they’re tickets to broader opportunities and safer operations. One such credential is the Dangerous Cargo Certificate (DCE). It’s mandatory for anyone working on ships carrying hazardous goods like petroleum, chemicals, or liquefied gas. Whether you’re a cadet looking to step into tanker operations or a seasoned mariner aiming for higher pay, understanding how to apply for dangerous cargo certificates is essential.

Why is a Dangerous Cargo Certificate Required?

The dangerous cargo certificate proves that a seafarer has the skills and training to handle marine hazardous materials as per IMO (International Maritime Organization) regulations. It ensures crew members are capable of managing high-risk cargo safely.

Without it, a seafarer cannot legally serve on oil tankers, chemical carriers, or gas vessels. Beyond legality, the training behind the certification prepares crew for emergencies like spills, leaks, or onboard fires involving dangerous substances.

Types of Dangerous Cargo Certificates

Basic Dangerous Cargo Certificate

This entry-level endorsement allows seafarers to work on vessels carrying hazardous cargo under supervision. It’s usually the first step after completing relevant modular courses and gaining initial sea time.

Advanced Dangerous Cargo Certificate

The advanced certificate qualifies a seafarer to take on greater responsibility, often in supervisory roles. To apply, candidates must already hold a basic dangerous cargo certificate and have additional sea service proof related to tanker operations.

Documents Required to Apply

Before you apply for dangerous cargo certificate, make sure these documents are ready:

• Scanned copy of signed online application form.
• Passport-size photo with white background (face covering 70%).
• Scanned signature.
• Modular course certificate (in PDF format).
• Company certificate mentioning the type and grade of oil, chemical, or gas cargo handled.
• Copy of existing basic dangerous cargo certificate (when applying for advanced).
• Self-attested scanned copy of CDC showing relevant sea service.
  

Having all documents organized in one file helps avoid delays during the review process.

How to Apply for Dangerous Cargo Certificate

Application for Basic Dangerous Cargo Certificate

1. Visit the DG Shipping website.
2. Log into your seafarer profile.
3. Update your profile under the “Seafarer” column.
4. Go to the COP tab → “Check eligibility.”
5. From the drop-down, choose DC basic oil and chemical or DC basic liquefied gas depending on your trade.
6. Upload missing documents under the “Documents” section if flagged.
7. Once eligibility shows clear, click Apply Now.

Your application for the basic dangerous cargo certificate will then be registered.

Application for Advanced Dangerous Cargo Certificate

1. Log into DG Shipping’s website.
2. Go to “DC Endorsement, GMDSS Radio Operator.”
3. Choose “Application for DC endorsement – Advanced (Level II).”
4. Verify your seafarer profile data.
5. Select the nearest MMD (Marine Mercantile Department) office for quicker delivery.
6. Enter CoC details and previous DCE details (basic for new advanced; advanced for renewal).
7. Fill address for delivery and advanced modular course details.
8. Generate the application number.
9. Pay fees under “Pay CoC & CoP Fees.”
10. Upload signed application and documents in PDF format.

Once submitted, your application goes directly to the selected MMD for processing.

Application Review Process

Review for Basic DCE

Approval usually takes 10–15 days. To check:

• Visit the DG Shipping STCW checker.
• Select “COP – DC basic.”
• Enter INDOS number and date of birth.
• Download your certificate once available.
  

Review for Advanced DCE

Processing also takes about 10–15 days. Once approved, the advanced dangerous cargo certificate is dispatched by Speed Post. Applicants can track dispatch and approval status online. If queries arise, you’ll be notified via email to re-upload documents.

Important Points to Remember

• Complete all required modular courses before applying.
• Type of endorsement varies by vessel—oil, chemical, or gas.
• Keep company-issued cargo certificates updated.
• Fees must be paid online; without payment, the process halts.
• Upload documents clearly scanned and properly attested.
  

Revalidation of Dangerous Cargo Certificate

The DCE is not permanent. Like other maritime endorsements, it must be revalidated periodically. Renewal usually requires updated sea service records and refresher training modules. Applying through the same DG Shipping portal ensures your records remain consistent.

Also Read: How to Apply for Cruise Ship Jobs: Step-by-Step Guide for Students & Seafarers

To revalidate a Dangerous Cargo Certificate, candidates must:

• Meet the prescribed medical fitness standards.
• Complete the updated training course or required refresher period.
• Have at least 90 days of sea service on a dangerous goods vessel within the last five years.
• Demonstrate competence to serve on the same or similar type of vessel.
  

Steps to Obtain Revalidation

1. Obtain the official revalidation form.
   
2. Attach supporting documents, including:
   
   • Certificate of Competence
   • Valid medical fitness certificate
   • Original DC endorsement certificate
   • Proof of sea service over the last five years
   • Competency report from the vessel’s Master
     
3. Submit the form and documents to the central authority with two passport-sized photos.
   
4. Pay the applicable revalidation fee (approx. INR 2000).

Career Benefits of a Dangerous Cargo Endorsement

Holding a dangerous cargo endorsement offers more than compliance:

• Broader opportunities: Eligible for tanker, chemical, and gas carrier jobs worldwide.
• Better pay: Tanker jobs typically come with higher wages than dry cargo ships.
• Professional growth: Moves you into supervisory and specialized roles.
• Safety readiness: Training equips you for emergencies, making you a valuable crew member.

For students entering the maritime field, this certificate can significantly boost employability. For experienced seafarers, it’s often the difference between routine jobs and higher-paying, specialized contracts.

Conclusion

The dangerous cargo certificate is more than a piece of paper it’s a seal of competence and trust in handling the world’s most sensitive cargoes. Applying may seem like a bureaucratic maze, but once broken down into steps, it’s manageable.

Whether you’re aiming for your first basic dangerous cargo certificate or moving up to an advanced dangerous cargo certificate, each milestone strengthens your career at sea. Prepare your documents carefully, follow the online process, and keep your certifications valid.

In maritime life, opportunities favor the prepared and nothing demonstrates readiness better than being certified to handle dangerous cargo safely.