India’s maritime sector is vital for the effective functioning of the Indian economy. It accounts for approximately 90% of the trade volume. From crude oil to farm goods, everything passes through the port and vessels. The efficiency and reliability of maritime transport are a must for national competitiveness and economic growth.
To safeguard the integrity of maritime transport and communication, the Directorate General of Shipping issued RPSL license to the authorised agencies and companies. This license is mandatory to carry out trade and other activities at sea. Without this license, no vessel or ship can communicate in the Indian Sea.
Let’s see in detail what RPSL is, an overview of the status and framework of the RPSL license issued in 2025, why it is mandatory, and the top RPSL companies in 2025.
What is an RPSL?
RPSL, or Recruitment and Placement Service License is issued by the Directorate General of Shipping to registered or licensed agencies or companies. This license authorises the company or agent to recruit Indian seafarers on Indian and foreign-flagged vessels. It is a mandatory license for all RPS providers. They are required to obtain and renew the license whenever it expires and abide by the rules and regulations of the Director-General of Shipping.
The RPSL contains the details of the company, a unique RPSL number, contact information, seafarer details, and the shipowner details. Without an RPSL, the agency or company cannot recruit or deploy seafarers in any vessel. It is illegal and can lead to severe consequences, including penalties, fines, and suspension or revocation of license.
Is an RPSL License mandatory in India?
Under the Merchant Shipping (Recruitment and Placement of Seafarer) Rule 2005, holding an RPSL license is mandatory for companies or agencies that indulge in the placement and recruitment of seafarers in Indian and foreign vessels. Operating at sea without a valid license is illegal and can lead to penalties, hefty fines, cancellation or suspension of license and blacklisting for years.
RPSL License Status in 2025: Regulatory Overview and Current Compliance Framework
The year 2025 marked a significant growth in the RPSL license industry with a total number of 596 active license. However, 287 license are cancelled and 24 are suspended, reflecting strict regulatory requirements by the DGS. Many licenses are temporarily blocked by the DGS for non-adherence to the legal rules and guidelines.
As compared to the year 2024, the Directorate General of Shipping has issued more strict rules for the issuance and renewal of license. DGS has introduced a more robust and detailed inspection checklist system. It has also issued multiple circulars to prevent fraudulent activities, ensure the safety of life at sea, and smoothly regulate maritime norms.
Growth of RPSL License Industry in India in 2025
In 2025, the RPSL License industry undergoes significant changes. A total number of 120 license were issued in 2025 with more than 26 new companies in the maritime field. The Directorate General of Shipping also introduced approximately 60 circulars in 2025 to enhance maritime safety and better enforcement of laws. DGS Circular number 31 of 2025 mandates Certificate of Competency (CoC) and Certificate of Proficiency (CoP) for all seafarers. DGS Circular No. 43 of 2025 is issued to prevent forged entries and fraudulent activities related to the Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC).
In 2025, the Maritime Labour Convention also highlights important issues and makes amendments for the recognition of seafarers as key workers, prevention of harassment, violence and discrimination on vessels, and fair treatment and medical care of seafarers. The year 2025 marked several key changes for the safety of seafarers and the inclusion of strict laws and regulations by DGS.
How many RPSL License Issued in 2025, 2024 and 2023?
In 2025, the total number of RPSL license issued is 120, a 37.5% decline from 2024. Due to the strict guidelines of DGS and non-adherence to the rules and legal obligations under RPSL rules 2016, more licenses are cancelled or suspended this year.
How many RPSL License Cancelled, Suspended or Temporarily Blocked in 2025?
| RPSL license cancelled in 2025 | 287 |
| RPSL license suspended in 2025 | 24 |
| RPSL license temporarily blocked in 2025 | 55 |
New RPSL Companies in India
Here is a comprehensive overview of the new RPSL companies and agencies in India:
City-wise Breakdown of RPSL Companies
Future Outlook: Expected RPSL License Policy Developments Post-2025
The RPSL market is developing at a fast pace. More than 26 RPSL license have been issued in the last two months, and many more are on the way. The Directorate General of Shipping is looking ahead to introduce new laws and rules in RPSL licensing for enhanced oversight, transparency, safety, and compliance. The directorate is looking ahead to develop new policies aimed towards the protection of life at sea.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the validity period of an RPSL license?
An RPSL license is valid for a period of 5 years. After the expiration of such period, the company and agency should renew the license.
2. What are the penalties for operating without a valid RPSL license?
The penalties for operation without a valid RPSL license under the Merchant Shipping Act include a penalty, blacklisting of license, or suspension of license.
3. Can a company transfer the RPSL license to any other company?
No, a registered company cannot transfer its RPSL license to any other company.
4. Can a company hold more than one RPSL license?
No, a company cannot hold more than one RPSL license.
5. How can you find the list of registered RPSL companies?
You can find the list of registered RPSL companies on Indo Search and the official website of the Directorate General of Shipping.