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.
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.
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 standard policies, safeguards consumers' rights, and provides a licensing framework for radio operations. 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.
Important Note on Compliance
WPC approval in India is crucial. 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.
Basic Requirement for WPC ETA Approval & Import Licence
Go through the basic structural requirements of WPC ETA Certification depending on your manufacturing entity type:
Foreign Manufacturers
All foreign manufacturers must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR). If the manufacturer has a liaison office/branch office in India, they will act as the AIR.
Import License
A foreign manufacturer needs to appoint an AIR for the import license, which must be the same entity listed in the WPC ETA application.
Domestic Manufacturers
The domestic manufacturer can directly apply for the WPC ETA license and the WPC import license without needing to nominate an external 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 Licenses
Permission to set up and run wireless networks, such as cellular, point-to-point, and Wi-Fi networks.
2. Non-Network Licenses
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.
Mandatory Product List for WPC Certification
From wireless earbuds to routers, the number of wireless devices has risen incredibly. Below is a partial list of products that require mandatory compliance in India:
| S.No. | Product Name |
|---|---|
| 1 | Smart Watch |
| 2 | WPC Certification for Routers |
| 3 | Smart Home Gateway |
| 4 | Wireless Earphones |
| 5 | Bluetooth Speakers |
| 6 | Smart Speakers |
| 7 | Wireless Microphone |
| 8 | Smart TV |
| 9 | Wireless Bluetooth Gadgets |
| 10 | Wireless Transmitters |
Frequency Spectrums Applicable for WPC-ETA
To ensure proper tracking, below are visual references to the Frequency Lists and Technical Characteristics of Inductive Applications mandated for WPC ETA certification:
- 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 AIR 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.
Documents Required for WPC ETA Approval India
Here is the list of important documents required for compiling the certification application:
- ID and address proof of the authorized person
- Radiofrequency (RF) test report issued by a foreign lab that is ISO 17025 accredited or a NABL-accredited Indian Lab
- Letter of Authorization
- Technical details / Datasheet of the product
- IEC in the event of import
- A Purchase order in the event of import
- Receipt of online payments
- Alternate Test reports (CE/RoHS/ASTM/EN) if applicable
- Company GST Registration Copy
- Company Registration / Incorporation Copy
Process of WPC ETA Equipment Type Approval Certification
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 is "Equipment Type Approval".
Product Testing (RF Test Report)
Get the device tested by an accredited test lab (either Indian or International). They will provide an RF test report that confirms that the device operates in the permitted bandwidths in India (2.4 GHz or 5 GHz).
Note: This is the most important technical document in the approval process.
Collect Required Documents
Gather your RF test report, Technical Datasheet, User Manual, Authorization Letter (if you are not the manufacturer), Self-Declaration Letter, and Business Identity Proof (PAN, GST, IEC).
Register on the Saral Sanchar Portal
Go to the Saral Sanchar Portal, create an account as an Applicant, and under the WPC services category, select “Equipment Type Approval (ETA) through Self-Declaration”.
Submit the ETA Application
Complete the online application with details of the product (name, model, and frequency range) and company details.
Pay the Government Fee
A nominal, non-refundable application fee must be paid online through the portal depending on the product category.
WPC Evaluates Application
WPC will review your application and documentation. If in order, your certificate will be approved online normally between 1-3 weeks. WPC may request additional documents if clarity is needed.
Download your ETA Certificate
Once approved, log into your Saral Sanchar dashboard and download the certificate. Remember, ETA is needed for each product model number, and importers must apply for a WPC Import Licence after receiving the ETA.
What is an RF (Radio frequency) test report?
RF testing is a method of checking the frequency of radio transmissions to ensure they are using the spectrum efficiently so that radio waves do not interfere with one another. Manufacturers/Importers need to get the RF test report from an ILAC/NABL-accredited lab for ETA approval. If multiple RF modules are contained in a product, the test report of all modules must be uploaded.
Timeline, Fees, and Validity
Certification Timeline
The normal time required for WPC ETA approval is 10 to 12 working days after submitting relevant papers. This may vary case-by-case.
Validity & Renewal
The ETA certificate is valid for the entire lifetime of the product model, as long as it complies and is manufactured without modifications.
What are the Fees for a WPC Licence? People usually need clarification about the WPC certification cost. To ease this confusion, kindly reach out to us for a customized quotation based on your specific wireless equipment and modules.
Benefits Of Obtaining a WPC Certification in India
India's national radio regulating body is the Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) Wing. Below are the definitive benefits of obtaining WPC Certification:
Why Choose ERCS Private Limited?
ERCS acts as a bridge between you and the WPC authorities. We are an experienced group of professionals striving to maintain the credibility of obtaining your certificate. From checking applicability and document preparation to granting WPC approval in India, we dedicate ourselves to simplifying the complex procedures.
