WPC Certificate

What is WPC?

WPC stands for Wireless Planning & Coordination.
It is a government body under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).
Its main role is to regulate and license the use of radio frequencies and wireless equipment in India.
It ensures that wireless devices operate legally and do not interfere with other communication systems.
What is a WPC Certificate?

A WPC Certificate is an official approval or license that allows wireless devices to be imported, manufactured, sold, or used in India.
Without WPC approval, wireless devices like Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth devices, RF transmitters, drones, and other radio communication gadgets cannot be legally sold or used.
The certificate confirms that the device complies with Indian wireless communication standards and does not cause harmful interference.

1. Importer's License: WPC grants importers of wireless products in Madhya Pradesh an importer's license. Upon obtaining an importer's license, you are permitted to sell wireless devices that have been imported from overseas.

2. ETA (Equipment Type Approval): Prior to being permitted for import into Madhya Pradesh, every wireless equipment operating in the de-licensed frequency spectrum must obtain ETA from WPC. Additionally, every Indian-made product needs to get a WPC ETA Certificate. These products include Bluetooth devices, Wi-Fi, RFID, and cell phones, among others.

3. Network License: A network license is required for any organization that wants to provide communication services including cable, DTH, and mobile networks using the country's limited radio frequency capacity.

 Common Documents for WPC Certification (All Devices)
1.   Application Form – Filled in the prescribed format from the WPC portal.

2.   Covering Letter – Requesting approval for the device.

3.   Manufacturer/Importer Details – Including company registration, PAN, and GST certificate.

4.   Device Details – Including brand, model number, serial numbers, and technical specifications.

5.   Block Diagram / Circuit Diagram – Shows the internal wireless components.

6.   User Manual / Instruction Manual – Must describe operation and frequency usage.

7.   Test Reports – From an accredited lab showing compliance with:

o    RF (Radio Frequency) standards

o    Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards

8.   Frequency of Operation – Document specifying which frequency bands the device will use.

9.   Declaration of Conformity – Statement that the device complies with Indian frequency regulations.

 Additional Documents for Imported Devices
1.   Invoice / Purchase Order – Showing the imported device.

2.   Packing List / Bill of Lading – For customs verification.

3.   Authorization Letter from Manufacturer – If you are not the original manufacturer.

4.   Import License (if applicable) – For restricted frequency devices.

Additional Documents for Specific Devices
·         Drones / UAVs: Include drone weight, maximum transmission power, and control range.

·         Wi-Fi / Bluetooth Devices: Include Wi-Fi frequency bands (2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, etc.) and power output.

·         Walkie-Talkies / Radios: Include transmitter specifications and frequency allocation details.

 Optional / Supporting Documents
·         ISO/IEC certifications for device quality (if available).

·         Previous WPC approvals for similar products (to fast-track).

·         Photographs of the device.

Step 1: Identify the Type of Certificate You Need
Depending on your device, WPC issues different approvals:

1.   Type Approval (TAC) – For devices that transmit RF signals like Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth devices, drones, walkie-talkies, etc.

2.   Import License – Required if you are importing wireless devices.

3.   Frequency Allocation / No Objection Certificate (NOC) – For devices using specific frequency bands.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
Gather the documents (as explained earlier):

·         Application form (Form-A for Type Approval)

·         Covering letter

·         Device specifications, block diagrams, and user manual

·         Test reports from an accredited lab

·         Manufacturer/importer details, invoices (for imported devices)

·         Frequency allocation info

·         Declaration of conformity

Step 3: Fill the Application Form
·         WPC provides online application forms on their official website.

·         For Type Approval (TAC), use Form-A.

·         Make sure all information is accurate, including:

o    Device name, brand, and model

o    Frequency bands and power output

o    Technical details of RF modules

Step 4: Submit Application
You can submit:

1.   Online Submission – Through the WPC online portal

2.   Offline Submission – At your regional WPC office with hard copies of documents

Step 5: Pay Fees
·         WPC charges a processing fee depending on the type of device.

·         Fee payment is usually online on the portal during submission.

Step 6: Technical Evaluation
·         WPC reviews the documents and technical reports.

·         They may request clarification or additional documents if needed.

·         Devices may be tested to ensure compliance with Indian RF standards.

Step 7: Certificate Issuance
·         Once approved, WPC issues the Type Approval Certificate (TAC).

·         The certificate contains:

o    Device name and model

o    Approved frequency band

o    Maximum transmission power

o    Validity period

Tip: Approval may take 2–6 weeks depending on the complexity and completeness of your documents.

Step 8: After Getting WPC Approval
1.   You can legally import, sell, or use the device in India.

2.   Keep the certificate copy with your shipment for customs verification.

3.   Display the WPC logo/mark on the device if required.

1. Legal Compliance
·         WPC approval is mandatory for all wireless devices in India.

·         Without it, selling, importing, or using devices like Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth devices, drones, or walkie-talkies is illegal.

·         Ensures your product meets Indian government rules and regulations.

2. Market Access
·         With a WPC Certificate, manufacturers or importers can legally sell their devices in India.

·         Enables smooth customs clearance for imported devices.

·         Helps businesses expand market reach without legal hurdles.

3. Safety and Reliability
·         WPC ensures devices do not interfere with other critical communications (e.g., aviation, defense, medical).

·         Certification guarantees that RF emissions are within safe limits, protecting users and the environment.

4. Consumer Confidence
·         Certified devices are trusted by customers, knowing they meet regulatory standards.

·         Reduces complaints about device malfunctions or interference issues.

5. Avoid Penalties
·         Using or selling non-certified devices can result in:

o    Fines

o    Confiscation of goods

o    Legal action

·         A WPC Certificate ensures you avoid these penalties.

6. International Recognition
·         WPC certification often aligns with international RF standards, making it easier to:

o    Export devices from India

o    Comply with global regulations

7. Business Growth
·         Companies with WPC-certified products can partner with distributors, retailers, and e-commerce platforms more easily.

·         Certification enhances brand credibility and opens doors for bulk sales.

Importance of WPC Certification
·         Legal Requirement: Selling or using non-certified devices is illegal.

·         Safety: Ensures devices do not interfere with critical communication systems, like aviation or defense.

·         Market Access: Importers and manufacturers can legally sell products in India.

·         Consumer Protection: Ensures devices are safe and compliant with Indian standards.

Validity of WPC Certificate
·         The WPC Type Approval Certificate (TAC) is typically valid for the lifetime of the device model as long as there are no major changes in technical specifications.

·         For devices using special frequency bands or with higher risk of interference, the validity may be restricted or reviewed periodically.

·         There is no fixed renewal period for standard consumer devices like Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth devices, or drones unless WPC specifically requests an update.

Example: A Wi-Fi router with WPC approval does not need a new certificate unless the manufacturer changes its RF module or frequency band.

 Renewal / Modification
·         If device specifications change (e.g., frequency, power output, or hardware module), the manufacturer must apply for a modification or new WPC approval.

·         Renewal may also be required if:

o    Regulations for frequency bands change

o    The device uses restricted frequency bands

o    WPC requests an update for compliance reasons

Applicability
·         WPC approval applies to specific device models, not brands as a whole.

·         Each new model or variant must be separately approved.

·         Approval covers:

o    Device name and model

o    Frequency band

o    Maximum transmission power

o    RF emission standards

 Legal Significance of Validity
·         While a certificate is valid, the device can be legally imported, sold, and used in India.

·         Using a non-certified device or expired/modified device without approval is illegal and can lead to:

o    Confiscation of the device

o    Fines

o    Legal action