How to Get WPC Certification in India for Wireless Products

With the surge in demand for wireless and RF-based products in India, ensuring regulatory compliance has become a vital aspect of import and manufacturing. The WPC Approval Wing under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India, plays a key role in regulating wireless devices through a mandatory ETA Approval process. If you are importing or manufacturing devices like Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth speakers, smart wearables, or other RF-based gadgets, obtaining WPC ETA Certification is not optional—it's a legal requirement. In this comprehensive article, we walk you through the step-by-step process for WPC approval in India in 2025, clarify common misconceptions, and explain how a WPC Consultant can simplify your journey toward compliance.

What is WPC ETA Approval?

ETA Approval stands for Equipment Type Approval, issued by the WPC Wing of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). It is mandatory for any wireless product operating in license-free frequency bands like 2.4 GHz (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth), 865-867 MHz (RFID), etc.

Whether your product is imported or locally manufactured, it must have WPC ETA Certification before being sold in India. Without approval, the product can be seized by customs, and importers or manufacturers can face penalties.

Why Is WPC ETA Certification Required?

The Indian government mandates WPC ETA Certification for all products that emit radio frequencies to ensure they:

• Operate within permitted frequency bands

• Don’t interfere with other licensed communication networks

• Maintain consumer safety and RF exposure limits

• Are traceable and legally sold in the country

This applies to products such as:

• Wi-Fi routers and modems

• Wireless keyboards and mice

• Bluetooth headphones and speakers

• Smartwatches and fitness bands

• Zigbee and RFID devices

• Drones, IoT devices, and industrial wireless modules

Who Needs WPC ETA Approval in India?

You need ETA Approval if you are:

• An Importer of wireless-enabled products

• A Manufacturer developing RF-based gadgets in India

• A Brand Owner sourcing devices from OEMs

• An Online Retailer selling wireless electronics

• A Trader or Distributor involved in product marketing

Whether you're a large enterprise or a startup, complying with WPC ETA Certification is non-negotiable for legally distributing RF equipment.

Step-by-Step Process for WPC Approval in India (Updated 2025)

Identify Whether ETA is Required

Not all devices need WPC approval. First, determine whether your product:

• Uses wireless frequency

• Falls under license-exempt frequency bands as per Indian regulations

• Requires RF testing

If yes, you’ll need to proceed with WPC ETA Certification.

Conduct RF Testing in NABL-Accredited Lab

Before applying for ETA, your product must undergo RF (Radio Frequency) testing in a NABL-accredited laboratory in India. The test confirms whether the product complies with DoT frequency standards and power output limits.

Documents required for testing:

• Product technical datasheet

• Circuit diagrams (if applicable)

• Sample unit for testing

• Product label or artwork showing model number and brand

• Frequency specifications (as declared by manufacturer)

Pro Tip:
Work with a WPC Consultant who can assist in coordinating with the right lab and ensuring accurate test reports to avoid rejection.

Create Login on Saral Sanchar Portal

The WPC ETA Certification process is handled digitally via the Saral Sanchar portal  This portal is managed by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).

You need to register your company profile using:

• Company PAN card

• Import-Export Code (IEC)

• GST Certificate

• Authorized signatory ID proof

• Email and mobile authentication

Once registered, you will receive a login for further processing.

Upload RF Test Report and Apply for ETA

With your RF test report ready, you can now apply for ETA Approval online. The application form will require:

• Product details (name, model number, brand)

• Frequency range, bandwidth, and power

• Upload of RF test report

• Copy of business registration and IEC

• Authorization letter (if applying on behalf of OEM)

Note:
Even if you’re importing from an OEM, the applicant must be either the brand owner or importer. If you're unsure, a WPC Consultant can handle the application correctly on your behalf.

 Pay Government Fee (If Applicable)

For most license-exempt frequencies (like Bluetooth and Wi-Fi), ETA Approval is issued without a fee. However, in certain cases, a nominal fee may apply, especially for experimental or industrial frequencies.

The Saral Sanchar portal will notify you of the applicable fee before final submission.

 Track Application Status

After submission, your ETA application goes into review by WPC officials. You can track your application status directly on the Saral Sanchar portal.

In most cases, ETA is granted within 7–15 working days, provided there are no discrepancies.

Download and Use WPC ETA Certificate

Once approved, you can download your WPC ETA Certificate from the portal. The certificate includes:

• ETA number

• Product details

• Brand name

• Frequency and power specifications

• Validity status

You must ensure the certificate is retained and presented during customs clearance or on demand.

WPC ETA for Imported Products: Key Considerations

If you're importing wireless devices into India, WPC approval is mandatory before shipment arrives at customs.

Key points for ETA Approval for imported products:

• RF testing must still be conducted in India, even if tested overseas

• The product model number on the RF report must match exactly with the label

• Use a valid WPC Consultant to avoid delays or product seizure at customs

• ETA is not transferable between models or brands

• OEMs must provide authorization letters if the applicant is different

How WPC Consultant Services Help

A WPC Consultant specializes in assisting importers and manufacturers through the ETA approval process. Here's how they simplify your path:

Benefits of Hiring a WPC Consultant:

Assess if ETA is required for your product
Identify correct frequency band compliance
Coordinate RF testing with accredited labs
Fill out application forms accurately
 Upload documents and track approvals
 Manage communication with WPC officials
 Avoid errors that lead to delays or rejections

For businesses new to WPC ETA Certification, a consultant saves time, cost, and ensures smooth compliance.

Documents Required for WPC ETA Certification

To obtain ETA approval, prepare the following:

1. RF Test Report from NABL lab

2. Product brochure or technical specs

3. Circuit diagram (optional)

4. Copy of Import Export Code (IEC)

5. Company PAN & GST

6. Authorization letter from OEM (if applicable)

7. Label image with model number and frequency

Conclusion

In 2025, compliance with WPC ETA Certification is a non-negotiable requirement for all businesses dealing with wireless devices in India. From importers to domestic manufacturers, understanding the WPC ETA Consultant  is essential to avoid customs delays, legal hurdles, and customer trust issues.Following the correct procedure—starting from RF testing to online application—and working with a qualified WPC Consultant can ensure your business remains compliant and competitive in India’s growing electronics market. If you’re planning to launch or import wireless products in India this year, take the proactive route: start your WPC ETA Certification process today and ensure seamless market entry.

FAQs 

Q1: Is WPC ETA required for every wireless product?

A: Only products using radio frequency and operating in license-free bands require ETA.

Q2: Can I use foreign RF test reports?

A: No. RF testing must be done in an Indian NABL-approved lab.

Q3: How long does WPC ETA Approval take in 2025?

A: Usually 7 to 15 working days, depending on document readiness and accuracy.

Q4: Who can apply for ETA Approval?

A: Importers, brand owners, manufacturers, or authorized agents can apply. A WPC Consultant can act on your behalf.

Q5: Does WPC approval expire?

A: No. ETA certificates remain valid unless the product specification changes.