India WPC - RF Type Approval Requirements

As one of the worlds fastest-growing consumer electronics and telecommunications markets with a population of over 1.4 billion people, India is a very popular choice for our clients.  In this months special feature we'll be looking at the requirements for India’s WPC certification for RF devices. 

India's Wireless Planning and Coordination WPC is the national regulatory authority responsible for licensing and certifying wireless and radio frequency devices in the country.  WPC operates under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and ensures compliance with India’s radio spectrum regulations.

There are three main certification processes under the Wireless Planning & Coordination Wing (WPC) in India: ETA (Equipment Type Approval), Import Licence and Amateur Radio Licensing.

ETA – Equipment Type Approval: This approval is required for any wireless or RF-enabled device operating in license-exempt frequency bands. It ensures that the product complies with technical standards and spectrum usage guidelines.
Examples: Bluetooth devices, Wi-Fi routers, wireless keyboards/mice, RFID readers, drones operating in unlicensed bands.

Import Licence: An Import Licence from WPC is required for RF devices that operate in licensed frequency bands or for certain restricted wireless products.
Examples: High-powered transmitters, satellite communication devices, RF modules operating in licensed spectrum.

Amateur Radio Licensing: Issued to individuals or organizations for non-commercial experimental or hobby radio operations.
Examples: Amateur radio transceivers, ham radios.

Required Documents for ETA:
   - RF test reports from an NABL (India) or ILAC-accredited international lab. Modular reports may be used if the host integrates the module without changes affecting RF performance (e.g., antenna gain, shielding). If changes are made, host-level testing may be required.
   - An authorization letter appointing the AIR (if applicable).
   - Technical product details or datasheet.
   - Company registration and GST details of the Indian entity.
   - Import Export Code (for importers).

Important Note:
WPC approvals can only be issued to authorized Indian representatives.  Eleos are able to supply a local holder solution for clients without a liaison office or branch in India.

Leadtime to Approval:  1-4 weeks

Validity:
An ETA certificate remains valid for the lifetime of that product model. No renewal is required unless the RF characteristics of the product change.

Labelling Requirements:
WPC currently does not have a mandatory physical label format for ETA-approved products; however, it is recommended to indicate compliance in product documentation, packaging, or user manuals.  Import Licence-approved devices may require additional marking or documentation per customs clearance requirements.

How Can Eleos Help?
Eleos Compliance offers end-to-end support, from document preparation and submission to securing ETA certificates and Import Licenses. With a strong local presence in India, we deliver the fastest turnaround times, cost-effective solutions, and seamless navigation of regulatory requirements.