In the fast-growing digital world, wireless technology is of central importance to communication, automation, and connectivity. As more and more wireless devices are being imported and marketed in India, their use needs to be regulated so that they don't interfere with licensed communication systems. This is where the WPC ETA Certificate becomes important.
Wireless Planning & Coordination (WPC) Wing, a ministry within the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India, takes care of and approves the application of radio frequency (RF) spectrum and wireless devices. Equipment Type Approval (ETA) for all products in use on de-licensed frequency bands like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, RFID, and other RF-based devices ensures that wireless equipment meets Indian norms. This certification is mandatory for companies intending to import, manufacture, or sell such wireless equipment in India.
WPC ETA Certificate (Equipment Type Approval) is a government approval for wireless and RF -based products operating on unlicensed frequency bands in India. It guarantees that these devices are consistent with Indian wireless communication standards to avoid interference in the radio frequency spectrum.
WPC ETA Certificate is required for importers and manufacturers who want to bring wireless devices into the Indian market. If the product uses a licensed frequency, a separate spectrum license is required in place of ETA approval.
Acquiring a WPC ETA Certificate has various benefits, including ensuring legal compliance, smooth import, and market authorization of wireless products in India.
Ensures Indian regulation compliance by wireless products, eliminating legal problems.
Required for selling, importing, and utilizing RF (Radio Frequency)) devices in India.
Avoids product bans, fines, or confiscation by the authorities.
Indicative of Indian telecom conformity, enhancing reliability.
Enables companies to market wireless products legally in India.
The following organizations can apply for WPC certification:
Note: WPC ETA certificate is given to Indian organizations alone; foreign manufacturers are required to have an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) who applies on their behalf.
The documents required for WPC ETA Certificate are provided below:
The process of WPC Certification involves several steps:
The applicant has to perform Radio Frequency (RF) testing of the wireless product at an accredited laboratory. It is necessary that the test report verifies that the product is working within the permitted frequency bands set by the WPC Wing.
Collect all the documents essential for the application process, which include company registration details, test reports, and technical details of the product.
The candidate needs to login to the SARAL SANCHAR portal, which is the DoT's online platform for making license applications, and enter the required details. The following details need to be entered:
Applicant and company information.
RF test report information.
Technical specifications of the product.
A compulsory processing charge has to be paid to the WPC for the reviewing of the application. The charges are different according to the category of product and level of testing.
The application and documentation are examined upon submission by the authorities of the WPC. In case the requirements are complete, the WPC issues the ETA Certificate to the wireless device.
Upon successful verification, the applicant is issued the WPC ETA Certificate so that they can legallyy import, manufacture or sell the product in India.
Any wireless product operating in de-licensed frequency bands in India needs WPC ETA approval. Below is a list of some of the products that requires WPC ETA Certification Approval
The whole process normally takes 5 to 7 working days, subject to the fact that all documents provided are complete and correct. However, in the case of discrepancies, further clarifications would be necessary, which may take longer.
The WPC ETA Certification Approval is issued for a specific model and will be valid as long as that model is manufactured without modifications. Renewal is not necessary unless there are design or functionality changes to the product.
Obtaining the WPC ETA Certificate is an important process for wireless device manufacturers and importers in India. It helps them comply with national regulations, ensures effective use of the radio frequency spectrum, and avoids interference with licensed communications. By adhering to the described procedures and keeping documentation up to date, companies can transition smoothly through the certification process and introduce their products into the Indian market.
At Compliance Testing Group, we utilize our extensive industry knowledge to enable companies to remain compliant, avoid risks, and optimize operational effectiveness for long-term success.
Your success is our success. We take pride in being a trusted partner in your journey toward delivering high-quality, compliant, and reliable products to the market.
