WPC Certification
The WPC provides WPC ETA Licenses for IT and Electronic devices that fulfil the needs of users of wireless technology. It falls under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and is the National Radio Regulatory Authority. It is responsible for spectrum management and licensing frequency, in addition to catering to the needs of all wireless users. The Wireless Planning & Coordination (WPC) is the national authority for broadcasting in India and was established in conjunction with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology.
All businesses intending to import and sell such products in India must obtain the WPC Certification, which is the legal authority that grants the right to import, distribute, and manufacture wireless products meant for use in India. From wireless earbuds, routers, and smart home devices, it has become the norm in homes and businesses. The number of wireless devices has risen incredibly. Now let’s delve deeper and get complete information about WPC.
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"Ensuring your wireless products speak the same language as Indian regulations." |
What is WPC Certification in India?
WPC ETA License is the process of certification provided by Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) under the Ministry of Communication. This certification is compulsory before import, sale, or use of any product that utilizes wireless or radio frequency (RF) technology. This ensures that the product meets the standard policies. The main aim of this certification is to safeguard consumers' rights while simultaneously providing a licensing framework for radio operations.
WPC approval in India is difficult as products that do not comply with relevant regulations, guidelines, and standards may face serious actions, including denial of customs clearance, confiscation, or penalties before or after customs clearance. WPC RLO stands for the Wireless Planning & Coordination (WPC) Wing, Regional Licensing Office. It is part of the Department of Telecommunications under the Ministry of Communications in India.
Basic Requirement for WPC ETA Approval & Import Licence
Go through the basic requirements of WPC ETA Certification:
- For foreign manufacturers: All foreign manufacturers have to appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR). If the manufacturer has a liaison office/branch office in India, then they will become the AIR.
- For an import license, A foreign manufacturer needs to appoint AIR, which should be the same as in the WPC ETA application.
- For domestic manufacturers: The domestic manufacturer can directly apply for the WPC ETA license ETA and the WPC import license without nominating AIR.
Types of WPC Certification in India
ETA certifies that wireless equipment complies with technical specifications and legal criteria. Approvals cover a wide range of wireless equipment, including radio-frequency devices, wireless routers, and cell phones.
1. Network license: Permission to set up and run wireless networks, such as cellular, point-to-point, and Wi-Fi networks.
- Internet Service Provider (ISP) license - This license is essential for corporations offering internet services, such as broadband or dial-up internet connections. It is a prerequisite for the establishment and operation of Internet services.
- Experimental License - Educational institutions and research organizations are granted this license to conduct experimental uses of wireless equipment or frequencies, usually for research and development.
2. Non-Network Licensees: Companies that offer non-network services, such as distributors of cable TV and wireless products, are granted this license. This license is required to import, purchase, and sell specific wireless equipment.
- Import License- An import license is necessary to export wireless products to India. The license holder is authorized to sell wireless items in Indian Territory.
Dealer Possession License: WPC issues Dealer Possession Licenses to individuals or companies that distribute and trade in wireless products.
- Non-Dealer Possession License- WPC grants a non-dealer possession license to an individual or organization that does not deal with wireless devices and does not hold a license from WPC.
Mandatory Product List for WPC Certification
Below is a list of products that require mandatory compliance in India:
Documents Required for WPC ETA Approval India
Here are the list of important documents required for the certification:
- ID and address proof of the authorized person
- Radiofrequency test report issued by a foreign lab that is ISO 17025 accredited or a NABL-accredited Indian Lab
- Letter of Authorization
- Technical details of the product
- IEC in the event of import
- A Purchase order in the event of import
- Receipt of online payments
- Test report (CE/RoHS/ASTM/EN)
- Company GST Registration Copy
- Company Registration Copy
Frequency Spectrums Applicable for the WPC-ETA Certificate:
Frequency List for which WPC-ETA Certification is compulsory in India:
The technical characteristics of inductive applications using the following frequency spectrum are as follows:
- If no liaison branches are set up in India, the foreign-producing applying company must designate an Authorized Indian Representative, or AIR
- The branch must register as an AIR if the liaison branch is created
- The Foreign Producing Company must authorize an ALR to get an import license
For Indian Producing Companies
- The company can file the WPC ETA without AIR as long as they have all the necessary documentation
Process of WPC ETA Equipment Type Approval Certification India
WPC ETA is required for all wireless and RF-enabled devices operating in de-licensed frequency bands (i.e., Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, RFID) before they can be imported, sold, or used in India. The ETA full form in the project is (Equipment Type Approval).
Step 1: Product Testing (RF Test Report)
- Get the device tested by an accredited test lab (either Indian or International).
- Wherever the test lab is located, they will be required to provide an RF test report that confirms that the device operates in the permitted bandwidths in India (2.4 GHz or 5 GHz).
- This is the most important technical document in the approval process.
Step 2: Collect required documents
- You will need to collect the following documents:
- RF test report
- Technical Datasheet or Product Specification
- User Manual
- Authorization Letter (for products in which you are not the manufacturer)
- Self-Declaration Letter
- Business Identity Proof (PAN, GST, IEC, etc.)
Step 3: Register on the Saral Sanchar Portal
- Go to Saral Sanchar Portal
- Register and create an account as an Applicant (individual/company).
- Under the WPC services category, select “Equipment Type Approval (ETA) through Self-Declaration”.
Step 4: Submit the ETA Application
- Complete the online application with:
- Details of the product (name, model, and frequency range)
- Company details (name, contact, GST, IEC)
Step 5: Pay the Government Fee
- A nominal application fee (non-refundable) must be paid online through the portal
- Fees depend on the product category and type of application
Step 6: WPC Evaluates Application
- WPC will review your application and associated documentation
- If everything is in order, your WPC certificate/ETA certificate will then appear approved online normally between 1-3 weeks (but this may take longer).
- If your application requires further clarity, WPC may request additional documents.
Step 7: Download your ETA Certificate
Once your ETA is approved, you will be able to log into your Saral Sanchar dashboard and download the WPC certificate/ETA certificate.
Important Notes:
- No physical sample submission will be required to obtain the ETA.
- ETA will be needed for each product model number.
- If you are importing the device, you must apply for a WPC Import Licence after you receive your ETA.
What is an RF (Radio frequency) test report, and how to get it?
RF (Radio Frequency) testing is a method of checking the frequency of radio transmissions to ensure that they are using the spectrum. Efficiency means that radio waves in the airspace do not interfere with one another. Manufacturers/Importers need to get the RF test report from the ILAC/NABL-accredited lab for ETA approval to sell the product in India. If multiple RF modules are contained in the particular product, then the test report of all modules is to be uploaded to get ETA approval.
The Timeline for WPC - ETA Certification
The normal time required for the approval of WPC for ETA is 10 to 12 working days. These will be after submitting relevant papers and initiating the process. The time may, however, exceed this period on a case-by-case basis.
What are the Fees for a WPC Licence?
People usually need clarification about the WPC certification cost. Worry not! To ease this confusion, kindly reach out to us for a customized quotation for a WPC License for wireless equipment.
Validity and Renewal of WPC - ETA Certificate
The ETA certificate is granted for a particular product model after it complies with all WPC guidelines. Additionally, it will be valid till the product lasts.
Benefits Of Obtaining a WPC Certification in India
India's national radio regulating body is the Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) Wing. It is a component of the Ministry of Communications' Department of Telecommunications (DoT). Below, we have mentioned the benefits of obtaining WPC Certification:
1. Legal Authority to Market Wireless Devices
WPC Approval is required to sell wireless or radio frequency (RF) devices in India. It eliminates the danger of regulatory penalties. WPC certificate for import is compulsory for importing wireless equipment into India.
2. Rigid Customs Protocol
One of the biggest advantages of having a WPC ETA Certification Services in India is that it will help you avoid customs delays or rejection. If you do not have an ETA, customs authorities can seize or restrict RF-enabled product shipments.
3. Access to the Indian Market
India is one of the fastest-growing consumer electronics markets in the world. WPC certification will provide your business access to the market with wireless-enabled devices, such as Wi-Fi, routers, smart speakers, Bluetooth speakers, smartwatches, IoT products, etc.
4. Creates trust and validates product attributes
WPC ETA certification increases your credibility with Indian buyers, retailers, and B2B partners. The buyers, retailers, and B2B buyers can rest assured that your product has been tested, compliant, and approved by the Indian government.
5. Steers Clear of Potential Legal and Financial Risks
Selling or importing uncertified wireless devices infringes regulatory requirements and is subject to legal action, penalties, or seizure of products. It is these potential legal pitfalls that WPC certification can mitigate. Your business can then act and grow with confidence without the risk of violating regulatory requirements.
6. Helps Import in Bulk and Distribute
Most e-commerce marketplaces, major retailers, and distribution channels in India require a WPC ETA certificate before onboarding any new products. It will allow you to enter into these types of arrangements and expand your business efficiently.
Why Choose ERCS Private Limited for WPC Certification?
ERCS, as a WPC certification consultant, is a bridge between you and the WPC - ETA authorities. We are a well-experienced group of professionals who strive hard to maintain the credibility of obtaining a certificate for your business. Right from checking the applicability of the product and document preparation to granting WPC approval in India, we will be with you. We are dedicated to simplifying the complexities of the whole process, making it hassle-free.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
WPC Certificate stands for wireless and Bluetooth products. WPC is department which is running under Department of telecommunications. We help Foreign and Indian Brands to obtaining the WPC approval.
WPC approval would be required, If the product utilizes any form of WIRELESS device. Such device operate in De-license frequency band.
Equipment Type approval (ETA) is issued by WPC. Such Products require approval in order to comply with the specific requirements of the WPC officials.
Test report of the de-licensed frequency band devices from the NABL accredited laboratory has to be submitted to WPC for verification.
Rs. 10,000 is required to be paid for each having enabled one or more RF modules. Please contact us on +91-9076611770 for your hassle-free certification.
Yes, BIS registered/approved product required WPC ETA Certificate.
Yes, the WPC ETA certificate is available in India. The Wireless Planning & Coordination Wing is the body that issues it. For wireless devices—like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and RFID—that operate in unlicensed frequency bands, this certification is required to guarantee that they adhere to Indian laws.
WPC is the abbreviation for an authority of India, in compliance of the Ministry of Communications. It offers central frequency management, licensing, and device certification while ETA is a specific type of approval/certification issued by WPC to equipment working in unlicensed frequency bands like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
You'll get your Equipment Type Approval through the WPC, which forms a part of the Department of Telecommunications.
Yes, the WPC ETA certificate is available in India. The Wireless Planning & Coordination Wing is the body that issues it. For wireless devices—like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and RFID—that operate in unlicensed frequency bands, this certification is required to guarantee that they adhere to Indian laws.
It is valid for the entire lifetime of the product model, as long as the model is manufactured without any modifications.
WPC is the abbreviation for an authority of India, in compliance with the Ministry of Communications. It offers central frequency management, licensing, and device certification, while ETA is a specific type of approval/certification issued by WPC to equipment working in unlicensed frequency bands like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
Once your ETA application has been submitted, a department within WPC in Wireless Planning and Coordination follows this process: Check up the documents: submitted documents are thoroughly scrutinized for accuracy. Verification of documents: The department verifies the correctness of the information given. Issue the ETA documents: When the prerequisite is fulfilled, the WPC issues the ETA certificate.
Getting WPC ETA approval from DoT can be a tough task. The application itself would be tedious, and factors like AIR requirements, frequent follow-ups, and visits to the department make the process even more overwhelming, potentially discouraging applicants.
You'll get your equipment type approval through the WPC, which forms a part of the Department of Telecommunications.
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