AD Code & RCMC Registration in India: A Beginner's Guide (2026)

Once you have your IEC, two registrations confuse almost every first-time exporter: the AD Code and the RCMC. They sound technical, but they are straightforward once you know what each one does.

This guide explains both in plain language — what they are, why you need them, and exactly how to register in 2026. If you do not have your IEC yet, start with our Export License (IEC) Guide first — you need an active IEC before either of these.

What is an AD Code?

An AD Code (Authorised Dealer Code) is a 14-digit number issued by your bank that links your business bank account to your port of export. It is what allows you to:

• File shipping bills at customs
• Receive foreign currency payments for your exports
• Claim duty drawbacks and export incentives directly to your account

Without an AD Code registered at your port, customs simply will not let your shipment move. Think of it as the bridge between your bank and the port.

How to Register Your AD Code: Step by Step

Step 1 — Request the AD Code Letter from Your Bank

Ask your bank (the one with your current account for export transactions) to issue an AD Code authorisation letter on its letterhead, in the DGFT/customs prescribed format.

Step 2 — Register it on ICEGATE

AD Code registration is now done online through the ICEGATE portal (icegate.gov.in), linked to your IEC and GST.

Step 3 — Register at Your Specific Port or Airport

The AD Code is registered per port — so if you export from a new port later, you register it there too.

Done — it is a one-time registration at each port and does not expire.

Documents for AD Code

• AD Code authorisation letter from your bank (prescribed format)
• IEC certificate
• GST registration
• PAN and business proof
• Bank details (cancelled cheque or bank statement)

What is an RCMC?

RCMC (Registration-cum-Membership Certificate) is your official registration with a DGFT-recognised Export Promotion Council (EPC), Commodity Board, or Development Authority for your product category.

You need it to:

• Claim export incentives and concessions under the Foreign Trade Policy — no RCMC means no benefits like RoDTEP claims through your council
• Export restricted or regulated goods that require it
• Access your council's support — trade fairs, buyer leads, market access programs, and policy help

How to Register for RCMC: Step by Step

Step 1 — Identify the Right Council for Your Product

There are dozens of EPCs and commodity boards — for example, engineering, textiles (AEPC), gems and jewellery (GJEPC), chemicals, spices board, tea board, and more. DGFT lists all registering authorities in Appendix 2T of the FTP.

Step 2 — Use FIEO for Mixed Categories

If you export multiple unrelated categories, you can register with FIEO (Federation of Indian Export Organisations).

Step 3 — Apply Online via the DGFT e-RCMC Platform

Go to dgft.gov.in → Services → e-RCMC → Apply. It is a common digital portal — you apply centrally.

Step 4 — Declare Your Main Line of Business

Fill in your business details and attach the required documents.

Step 5 — Pay the Council Fee

Each EPC sets its own fee — pay accordingly.

Step 6 — Sign and Submit

Sign with DSC or Aadhaar e-Sign and submit. The certificate is then issued by the council.

Key Facts About RCMC

• Validity: 5 financial years, deemed valid from 1 April of the licensing year
• Prerequisite: An active IEC with an updated profile
• When it must be valid: DGFT requires your RCMC to be valid on the date you apply for any benefit or concession under the FTP — keep it current to keep your incentives flowing

Documents for RCMC

• Active IEC certificate
• PAN of the business
• GST registration certificate
• Business proof (incorporation certificate, partnership deed, LLP agreement, or proprietorship proof)
• Declaration of main line of business

The Right Order to Do Everything

For a smooth start, register in this sequence:

• Step 1 — IEC (from DGFT) — see our Export License Guide
• Step 2 — GST + LUT — to handle zero-rated exports
• Step 3 — AD Code — from your bank, registered on ICEGATE at your port
• Step 4 — RCMC — from the right EPC, via DGFT e-RCMC, to unlock incentives

Do these in order and you will avoid the classic "shipment stuck at port" or "cannot claim my refund" problems.

Once RCMC is in place, you can claim schemes like RoDTEP — see our RoDTEP Scheme 2026 guide to improve your margins from day one.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying for RCMC before IEC is active or updated — RCMC needs a valid, updated IEC profile. Do IEC first
• Choosing the wrong EPC — Register with the council that matches your main product, or use FIEO for mixed categories
• Forgetting AD Code at a new port — AD Code is per-port. Exporting from a new port means a new registration there
• Letting RCMC lapse — If it is expired on the date you apply for a benefit, your incentive claim can be rejected. Track the 5-year validity
• Paying agents for what you can do online — Both AD Code (ICEGATE) and RCMC (e-RCMC) are online, DIY-friendly processes

Call To Action

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