AD Code Registration
Get Your Authorized Dealer Code to Enable Customs Clearance
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AD Code Registration
An AD Code (Authorized Dealer Code) is a 14-digit code issued by a bank and registered with the Customs Department through the ICEGATE portal. It is mandatory for exporters to register the AD Code at each port through which they wish to export goods. Without a valid AD Code, you cannot generate a shipping bill—making customs clearance impossible.
At License Mantra, we help you obtain and register your AD Code online seamlessly, ensuring that your international shipments are not delayed or rejected. Whether you’re a first-time exporter or scaling operations, our experts manage the entire process from bank coordination to ICEGATE filing.
Table of Contents
Why You Should Get AD Code Registration
Registering an AD Code is crucial for:
- Customs Clearance – Shipping bills can’t be generated without a registered AD Code
- Export Shipment Processing at specific ports
- Foreign Exchange Monitoring through your designated bank
- Compliance with RBI & DGFT norms for exporters
- Faster Export Incentive Claims like duty drawback and GST refunds
- Linkage to IEC, GSTIN & Bank Account for full regulatory compliance
It’s a one-time process that unlocks smooth and compliant global trade for your business.
Who Should Apply for AD Code Registration
AD Code registration is mandatory for:
- All Exporters (individuals, companies, LLPs, firms)
- New Businesses planning to export goods from India
- Businesses exporting from multiple ports (each port needs a separate registration)
- Manufacturers or Traders dealing with cross-border shipments
- E-commerce exporters using courier or cargo services
If you’ve received your IEC, this is your next required step.
Step-by-Step Application Process
We simplify the AD Code registration process into a few quick steps:
- Consultation & Port Selection
- Collect Bank Letter Containing AD Code
- Gather Supporting Documents
- Register AD Code on ICEGATE for Selected Port
- Verification by Customs Department
- Approval Confirmation on ICEGATE
Timeline: 2–4 working days per port
What Documents Are Required for AD Code Registration
Here are the essential documents you’ll need for AD Code registration:
- AD Code Letter issued by your bank (on letterhead, with seal & signature)
- IEC Certificate
- GST Registration Certificate
- Cancelled Cheque or Bank Statement
- Address Proof of Business
- Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
- PAN Card of Business/Proprietor
- Letter of Authorization (if applying through an agent)
Government Fees for AD Code Registration
- Government Fee: ₹0 (No official charge for AD Code registration)
- Professional Charges (License Mantra): Contact us for a cost-effective quote
- Digital Signature Assistance: Available as an add-on if required
License Validity and Renewal
- AD Code Registration is Permanent for the specific port
- Separate Registration Required for Each Port
- No renewal required unless you change your bank or branch
- Re-registration needed if bank details or branch change
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
An AD Code is issued by your bank and is required to clear shipments with Indian Customs. Without it, your shipping bill cannot be generated.
No. You must register your AD Code separately for each port of export.
Your bank issues the AD Code and provides it on their letterhead.
Typically, it takes 2–4 working days, depending on documentation and customs response.
Yes, Digital Signature Certificate (Class 3) is mandatory for uploading documents on ICEGATE.