Wireless technology adoption is gaining speed quickly. Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth speakers, wireless headphones, and watches have become part of our daily activities. India’s wireless audio device market generated $4.36 billion in 2023. It is projected to reach $14.63 billion by 2030, growing at a strong annual rate of 18.9%.
But if you import or sell wireless devices in India, you need government approval. That approval is provided in the form of a WPC ETA certificate. This blog describes a WPC ETA certificate, why you need it, how to obtain one, and what details you need to provide.
Table of Contents
What is a WPC ETA Certificate?
A WPC ETA certificate (Equipment Type Approval) is issued by the Wireless Planning and Coordination Wing (WPC) under the Ministry of Communications, Government of India. It is a certificate that confirms a wireless device follows India’s radio frequency rules and is approved for legal sale or use in the country.
ETA is necessary for all wireless products using license-free frequency bands like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
If you try to import or sell a wireless product without ETA approval, customs will seize your shipment and penalize you.
Why Do You Need a WPC Certificate in India?
All wireless devices being sold in India must have this approval. Without it, you can’t sell or import these products. The WPC certificate India procedure is beneficial.
- To keep consumers safe from harmful devices
- To ensure that all wireless products coexist
- Comply with the wireless device government regulations
- Establish the customers’ trust who purchase your products
Types of Products That Need WPC ETA Certification
Many wireless products need this certificate. Here are the main ones:
| Category | Products |
|---|---|
| Communication Devices | Mobile phones and smartphones |
| Bluetooth headphones and speakers | |
| Walkie-talkies and two-way radios | |
| Wireless microphones | |
| Computer Equipment | Wireless mouse and keyboard |
| Wi-Fi routers and modems | |
| Wireless USB adapters | |
| Bluetooth dongles | |
| Smart Home Products | Smart speakers (e.g., Alexa) |
| Wi-Fi-enabled bulbs | |
| Smart home gateways | |
| Wireless security cameras | |
| Business Equipment | Wireless POS terminals |
| RFID readers and tags | |
| Wireless barcode scanners | |
| Hotspot devices | |
| Entertainment Devices | Smart TVs and Wi-Fi |
| Wireless gaming controllers | |
| Drone controllers | |
| Smartwatches |
The WPC certification process covers all devices that use radio waves to send or receive data.
Who Issues the ETA Certificate?
The certificate is issued by the WPC Wing of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). WPC reviews the product’s technical details to check whether it fits within India’s allowed frequency ranges and power limits.
When you apply for a WPC ETA certificate, the WPC team evaluates your product's technical specifications. They verify factors such as
- The frequency band your product operates at (for example, 2.4 GHz for Wi-Fi or Bluetooth)
- The output power of the signal
After ensuring that your product complies with all the regulations, the WPC will issue the ETA certificate. This certificate will ensure that your device is safe to use in India and permitted to be imported, retailed, or used.
How to Apply for WPC ETA Certificate: Step-by-Step Process
Getting your ETA certificate for wireless products is not hard if you follow these steps:
Step 1: Register on the Saral Sanchar Portal
Go to the Saral Sanchar Portal and register for an online application. This is the official government website for all WPC applications. You need to create an account first.
Step 2: Submit Product Details
List all the wireless products you want to import or sell. You will receive an import ID from the system after submission. Be sure to save this number, as it will be required in future steps.
Step 3: Apply for a New ETA
Click on “Apply New ETA” on the portal. You must attach a self-declaration form for each product. This form states what your product does and how it works.
Step 4: Get RF Testing Done
Your product needs radio frequency testing. The process starts by checking the EN standards and radio frequency range through product RF testing. You can get this done at:
- Any NABL-accredited lab in India
- ISO 17025-accredited foreign labs
Step 5: Submit Required Documents
Upload all required documents to the portal. Make sure everything is clear and correct. Missing documents will delay your application.
Step 6: Pay the Registration Fee
Pay the application fee online using your debit card, credit card, or digital wallet. The fee depends on the category and quantity of products.
Step 7: Wait for Approval
Once you submit your application and the documents are verified, the WPC wing will issue the certificate for the particular devices. This usually takes 30-50 working days.
You can use the WPC license online application system to track your progress at any time.
Documents Required for WPC ETA Certificate
You’ll need the following documents to apply for your WPC ETA license:
Company Documents:
- Company registration certificate
- GST registration copy
- Import Export Code (for importers)
Product Documents:
- RF test report from an accredited lab
- Product technical specifications and details
- CE/RoHS/ASTM/EN test reports
- Product photos and user manual
Personal Documents:
- ID proof of an authorized person
- Address proof of the company
- Letter of authorization
Other Documents:
- Purchase order (for imports)
- Fee payment receipt
- Self-declaration forms
Make sure all documents are clear and up-to-date. Wrong or old documents will slow down your application process.
Benefits of Having a WPC ETA Certificate
Getting done with a WPC certification process is a legal procedure. It provides many other benefits for your business and product performance. Here’s how:
Legal Benefits
- You Can Legally Sell in India: With the WPC ETA, you are completely allowed to sell or distribute your wireless product in the Indian market.
- Avoid Government Action: Without this certificate, customs can object to your shipment. You might face penalties, product seizures, or delays.
- Full Compliance: This certificate proves you follow all the rules of the Indian telecom law, which the Department of Telecommunications handles.
Business Benefits
- Earn Customer Trust: Buyers are more likely to trust and buy certified products, especially in the electronics market.
- Access Big Retailers: Most large shops and online stores like Amazon and Flipkart require proper certifications before listing your product.
- Sell Across India: With the WPC ETA certificate, there are no restrictions. You can sell your product anywhere in the country.
- Better Pricing: Certified products often get better pricing because consumers know the product meets quality and safety standards.
Technical Benefits
- Better Network Performance: Products that are tested and certified are better matched for Indian wireless networks.
- Lower Interference: Certified devices are tested to work without interrupting other gadgets or devices.
- More Reliable: The product will likely face fewer technical issues, ensuring longer life and customer satisfaction.
Cost of WPC ETA Certificate
The total cost of getting a WPC ETA certificate can change depending on your product, the testing needed, and whether you hire a consultant. Here is a breakdown:
| Cost Component | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| RF Testing (Lab Fees) | ₹50,000 - ₹200,000 |
| Government Fee | ₹10,000 |
| Consultant Fee (Optional) | ₹7,000 - ₹12,500 |
| Extra Documents/Setup | ₹5,000 - ₹20,000 |
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
Delays or rejections plague many companies due to mistakes that can be avoided. The most frequent mistakes and how to avoid them are given below:
No RF Testing Conducted
Some consider RF testing optional, and they try to skip it. But it is a necessary procedure. Without a satisfactory test report from an Indian NABL-accredited lab, your application will be rejected.
Submitting Incomplete Documents
Ensure your company registration, IEC, test report, and authorization letter are all provided. Even a single missing document can lead to delays or the denial of your application.
Use of Foreign or Unapproved Labs
Only testing labs in India that are approved by NABL will be accepted. No reports will be accepted by laboratories outside India after the recent changes in rules.
No Indian Representatives (for Foreign Companies)
If your company is not based in India, you need to have an authorized Indian Representative (AIR). This representative manages your application process.
Applying for the Wrong Product
Every model of product requires an individual ETA. Don’t try to use one certificate for many different products. Also, ensure the product category and RF bands are specified clearly.
Final Words
Getting a WPC certificate India is a law that you can’t skip if you deal with wireless devices. It might look hard to go through the process of WPC certification, but if you move in the right direction and submit proper documents, it is simple.
The ETA certificate ensures that your product is compliant, safe, and ready for the Indian market. If you are unsure, you can hire a professional to help you get your WPC ETA license without mistakes.
By doing it right, you can avoid delays, build trust, and grow your business in India’s increasing technology industry.
