What is a drug licence
A drug licence is the legal permission required to sell, distribute or manufacture drugs and certain healthcare products in India. It is issued by the drug control authorities and is essential for pharmacies, distributors and related businesses.
Retail vs wholesale drug licence
There are different categories of drug licence depending on your activity. A retail licence is for selling directly to consumers, such as a chemist shop, while a wholesale licence is for distribution to retailers and institutions. A business doing both may need both.
The pharmacist requirement
For a retail drug licence, the presence of a qualified, registered pharmacist is generally required. This ensures medicines are dispensed responsibly. Wholesale operations also have qualification and experience requirements for the responsible person.
Premises and storage
Drug licences come with requirements for the premises, such as adequate space and proper storage conditions, including refrigeration for medicines that need it. Meeting these conditions is part of qualifying for the licence.
Documents commonly required
- Business and identity documents
- Premises proof and layout
- Qualification and registration of the pharmacist or competent person
- Refrigeration and storage details
- Other documents as specified by the authority
How Aidwish helps
Aidwish guides you on the right category of drug licence, helps meet the premises and personnel requirements, prepares the documentation and coordinates with the authority — so your pharmacy or healthcare business launches compliantly.