India's WPC certification is a mandatory hurdle for wireless products entering the market.

Understanding WPC Certification:

The Wireless Planning & Coordination Wing (WPC), under the Ministry of Communications, is the national radio regulatory authority. All wireless devices using radio spectrum in India (e.g., Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth devices, mobile phones) require WPC's Equipment Type Approval (ETA).

The core aim is to regulate radio spectrum use, ensuring devices comply with Indian technical standards and prevent network interference.

  WPC Certification Scope & Latest Dynamics:

WPC certification applies to all products using radio frequencies. Notable recent updates from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT):

Recent Important Updates:

·6GHz Band New Regulation Prospect: In May 2025, DoT released usage rules draft for the lower 6GHz band (5925-6425 MHz), currently open for comments. Monitor the final version.

·Clarified Low Power Device Technical Requirements: WPC notified new technical requirements for four categories of Low Power Short Range Devices in the 865-868MHz band, directly referencing European EN standards.

·MTCTE Plan Expansion: Effective August 24, 2025, Phase VI of the Mandatory Testing & Certification of Telecom Equipment (MTCTE) scheme adds 14 new product categories requiring TEC certification before import/sale/use.

  WPC Certification Process & Requirements:

Certification paths differ by device type:

1.Equipment Type Approval (ETA): The most common path, for devices operating in license-exempt bands (e.g., 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, 865-868 MHz SRD).

·Self-Declaration Path: For devices meeting both "import license exempt" AND "operating only in license-exempt bands", a simplified process via online self-declaration (undertaking) is available. Common for phones, laptops, smartwatches.

·Regular Application Path: Products not meeting self-declaration criteria require formal ETA application to WPC.

2.Wireless License: Required if the device operates in non-license exempt bands.

  Key Requirements & Documents:

·Test Reports: ETA requires RF test reports based on FCC (US) or ETSI (EU) standards. Reports for all RF modules needed if multiple present.

·Indian Authorized Representative (AIR): Mandatory for foreign manufacturers to appoint a local Indian representative. Also mandatory under MTCTE.

·Required Documents: Typically include application form, Power of Attorney (from manufacturer to AIR), test reports, undertaking, etc.

·Timeline & Validity: The WPC ETA process is relatively simple, often completed within 8 weeks. Crucially, the ETA certificate has NO validity period and does not require renewal once granted.

  Practical Compliance Suggestions for Businesses:

1.Accurately Determine Certification Path: Identify your product's operating band(s) to choose between ETA or Wireless License.

2.Utilize Self-Declaration: If eligible, use this path to significantly simplify the process.

3.Address MTCTE New Regulations: Confirm if products fall under MTCTE Phase VI. Such products require simultaneous compliance with TEC mandates.

4.Consider Test Report Compatibility: WPC accepts reports based on ETSI or FCC standards. Planning can avoid duplicate testing, saving cost and time.

5.Understand Multi-Agency Landscape: Indian market access may involve WPC, TEC (for MTCTE), and BIS (for CRS). A single product may need to meet requirements from 2-3 agencies; comprehensive assessment is key.

We hope this guide clarifies India WPC certification. For more specific product information, BLUEASIA: +86 13534225140, can provide more targeted analysis.