NMC Doctor Registration Renewal in India: Online Process, Documents & Timeline 2026

NMC vs State Medical Council: Which One Do You Renew?

There is often confusion between NMC (National Medical Commission) and state medical councils. Understanding the distinction is critical:

In practice: your MBBS registration is with your state medical council (e.g., Maharashtra Medical Council, Tamil Nadu Medical Council). The NMC maintains the National Medical Register which aggregates state registrations. You renew with your state medical council — not the NMC directly.

When to Renew

Renewal timelines vary dramatically by state:

Check your registration certificate for the expiry date. Apply for renewal at least 60 days before expiry to avoid a lapse. Practising with an expired registration is a serious legal violation.

Renewal Process (Online)

Documents Required

• ✓Existing medical registration certificate (original or certified copy)
• ✓MBBS degree certificate (attested)
• ✓PG degree certificate (if applicable)
• ✓Photo ID proof (Aadhaar, PAN, or passport)
• ✓Address proof (utility bill, Aadhaar, or bank statement — last 3 months)
• ✓CME (Continuing Medical Education) certificates — some states require proof of 30–50 CME hours in the renewal period
• ✓Passport-size photograph (2–3 copies)
• ✓Fee payment receipt

For more on setting up your practice's compliance framework, see our guide to starting a clinic in India and the ABDM compliance guide.

FAQ

What happens if I practise with an expired registration?

Practising medicine with an expired registration is illegal under the NMC Act, 2020. It can result in criminal charges, insurance claim rejections (insurers verify doctor registration), and liability issues if a patient complaint arises. Renew before expiry — always.

Can I practice in a different state from where I'm registered?

Yes, but you need to register with the state medical council of the state where you practise. Most states allow temporary practice (up to a limited period) on the basis of another state's valid registration, but permanent practice requires state-specific registration.

Has the NMC changed the registration process from the old MCI system?

The NMC replaced the Medical Council of India (MCI) in 2020. The National Medical Register (NMR) under NMC aims to create a single national database. State councils continue to handle day-to-day registration and renewal — the process hasn't changed significantly yet, but centralisation is ongoing.