WPC Certificate (Equipment Type Approval – ETA)
Introduction
The WPC Certificate, also known as the WPC License, is issued by the Wireless Planning & Coordination (WPC) Wing of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). It is mandatory for manufacturers, importers, and sellers of wireless and radio-frequency devices in India.
At Tax Pal Solutions, we provide end-to-end assistance to help businesses obtain their WPC Certification smoothly—ensuring legal compliance, faster approvals, and hassle-free import or sale of wireless products.
Importance of WPC Certification in India
- Ensures compliance with the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885.
- Prevents network interference by regulating frequencies.
- Enables legal import, manufacturing, and sales of wireless devices.
- Protects consumers from unsafe or low-quality products.
- Provides market access to India’s booming telecom and IoT sectors.
Types of WPC Approvals
1. Equipment Type Approval (ETA)
- Mandatory for wireless products operating on de-licensed frequency bands.
- Issued based on an RF Test Report from an accredited Indian lab.
- Example: Bluetooth devices, Wi-Fi routers, RFID readers.
2. Import License
- Required for importers bringing wireless products into India (commercial use).
- Issued only after obtaining an ETA certificate.
3. Dealer Possession License (DPL)
-
For businesses stocking or selling wireless devices.
4. Non-Dealer Possession License (NDPL)
-
For individuals/entities using wireless devices for non-commercial purposes.
5. Experimental License
-
For R&D, testing, and demonstration of wireless technologies.
WPC ETA Certificate vs Import License
| Feature | WPC ETA Certificate | WPC Import License |
|---|---|---|
| Full Form | Equipment Type Approval | Import License |
| Purpose | Certifies device compliance with technical norms | Grants permission to import wireless devices |
| Applicability | For devices using de-licensed frequency bands | For bulk/commercial imports of wireless products |
| Issued To | Manufacturer / Brand Owner | Importer / Indian Entity |
| Validity | Lifetime for product model | 1 year (renewable) |
| Requirement Basis | RF Test Report | ETA + Import Application |
| Common Devices | Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth speakers, RFID devices | Smartphones, smartwatches, IoT devices |
Products That Require WPC License
- Wi-Fi Routers and Modems
- Bluetooth Devices (speakers, earphones, keyboards)
- Smartwatches and Smartphones
- RFID Readers & Tags
- Walkie-Talkies, Wireless Microphones
- IoT Devices with Wireless Transmission
- Wireless CCTV Cameras
- Remote-Controlled Drones
WPC De-Licensed Frequency Bands
| Frequency Band | Application |
|---|---|
| 13.553 – 13.567 MHz | Low-power RF devices (indoor) |
| 26.957 – 27.283 MHz | Low-power wireless equipment |
| 402 – 405 MHz | Medical RF devices |
| 865 – 867 MHz | RFID systems |
| 2.400 – 2.4835 GHz | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
| 5.150 – 5.350 GHz | Wireless Access (Indoor use) |
| 5.725 – 5.825 GHz | Wireless Access (Indoor use) |
Benefits of WPC Certification
- Legal Authorization – Mandatory for import, sales, and usage.
- Faster Customs Clearance – Avoids shipment delays and seizures.
- Brand Credibility – Builds trust with distributors and customers.
- Consumer Safety – Ensures products meet radiation & safety norms.
- Competitive Advantage – Preferred by retailers and government buyers.
Documents Required
For Indian Manufacturers
- Company Incorporation Certificate
- GST Registration
- MOA & AOA
- Authorized Person’s ID & Address Proof
- RF Test Report (from NABL lab)
- Product Datasheet/User Manual
For Importers
- IEC (Import Export Code)
- Incorporation Certificate & GST
- Authorized Person’s ID & Address Proof
- RF Test Report (NABL/ILAC accredited lab)
- Purchase Order & Invoice
- ETA Certificate Copy (if applicable)
- Authorization Letter from Foreign Manufacturer
WPC License Application Process
Step 1 – Product & Frequency Check
Verify if your device operates under a de-licensed frequency band.
Step 2 – RF Testing
Obtain an RF Test Report from a NABL-accredited Indian lab.
Step 3 – Registration on Saral Sanchar Portal
Create an account and fill in the application details.
Step 4 – Document Upload & Payment
Submit required documents and pay applicable fees online.
Step 5 – Verification by WPC Authority
Application is reviewed, and clarifications may be requested.
Step 6 – Certificate Issuance
Download WPC ETA or Import License after approval.
Cost of WPC Certification
| Component | Estimated Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| RF Testing Fee | ₹15,000 – ₹40,000 (per product) |
| Import License Govt. Fee | ₹1,000 – ₹5,000 |
| Consultancy & Application Support | ₹10,000 – ₹25,000 |
| Total Approximate Cost | ₹20,000 – ₹70,000+ |
Validity & Renewal
- ETA Certificate → Lifetime validity for a product model (unless modified).
- Import License → Typically valid for 1 year, renewable upon application.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
- Product Seizure at Customs
- Fines up to ₹1,00,000 per violation
- Imprisonment (up to 3 years) under Indian Wireless Telegraphy Act
- Blacklisting from future imports
Why Choose Tax Pal Solutions?
- Experienced in handling WPC Certification & ETA approvals.
- Quick turnaround with complete documentation support.
- Assistance with RF Testing & Saral Sanchar portal filing.
- Affordable, transparent, and reliable service across India.
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