Why TEC Certification is Mandatory for Telecom Equipment in India

TEC certification is essential for telecom products such as mobile phones, smartwatches, routers, IoT gateways, tracking devices, modems, and more. It is a legal requirement for their production, sales, and circulation within the Indian market. Failing to obtain TEC certification could lead to legal penalties and disrupt business operations.

This blog explains the significance of TEC certification, the process of obtaining it, and why it's crucial for telecom products in India.

What is TEC Certification?

The Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC), under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), issues TEC certification to telecom product manufacturers, importers, and business owners. This certification ensures that telecom products comply with quality and safety standards, making them suitable for distribution across India. Products are tested in accredited labs as per the Essential Requirements before receiving TEC certification.

As per the Indian Telegraph (Amendment) Rules, 2017, telecom products must undergo mandatory testing and certification before they can be sold in the Indian market. The Mandatory Testing & Certification of Telecommunications Equipment (MTCTE) procedure outlines the certification requirements, including exemptions and recent amendments.

Importance of TEC Certification for Telecom Equipment

TEC certification plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and safety of India’s telecom ecosystem. Here's why it’s essential:

1. Safety & Quality Assurance: TEC certification ensures telecom products meet stringent safety and quality standards, making them reliable for consumers and ensuring long-term usage without failures.

2. Compliance with National Standards: TEC certification guarantees that products comply with national performance standards, supporting the smooth functioning of India’s telecom network and promoting the country's interests.

3. Business Growth: TEC certification helps businesses operate smoothly, encouraging healthy competition within the Indian market, which fosters innovation and industry growth.

4. Legal Compliance: Obtaining TEC certification ensures that manufacturers, importers, and business owners comply with legal requirements, protecting them from legal penalties and ensuring business continuity.

5. Building Consumer Trust: TEC-certified products enhance brand reputation by establishing trust and confidence among consumers, which boosts customer loyalty and retention.

6. Eliminating Low-Quality Products: The TEC certification process eliminates the circulation of low-quality telecom products that could pose safety risks, such as high-frequency emissions, thereby protecting public welfare.

7. Freedom from Legal Risks:

   Selling uncertified telecom products can expose businesses to legal consequences. TEC certification prevents this by ensuring products adhere to the required standards and avoid legal penalties.

Key Changes in the MTCTE Procedure for TEC Certification

In April 2024, the MTCTE Procedure was amended, replacing the TEC 93009:2021 guidelines. Some significant changes include:

• The TEC certificate validity has been extended to 10 years.

• A Source Approval Certificate is now required.

• Acceptance of BIS certifications and test reports from BIS-recognized labs.

• No more Provisional Certificates.

• Clarifications regarding the End of Life and End of Sale for replacement products.

Process to Obtain TEC Certification

Here’s a step-by-step guide to obtaining the TEC certification for telecom products:

• Register on the MTCTE Portal: Start by registering on the MTCTE portal and obtaining login credentials.

• Submit Application: Upload the required documents on the MTCTE portal.

• Document Review: TEC reviews the application and informs the applicant about any missing documents.

• Product Testing: Once the documentation is complete, the product details (model, manufacturing location, etc.) are submitted for testing in accredited labs.

• Submit Test Reports: After testing, submit the test reports to TEC and make the necessary payment.

• Certification Grant: TEC reviews the test reports and, if they meet the standards, grants the certification.

Documents Required for TEC Certification

To obtain the TEC certification, the following documents are required:

• Product name, brand, and model specifications.

• Proof of the manufacturing location.

• Trademark copy and authorization letter.

• Bill of Material (BoM), product samples, and user manual.

• Details of related models and product marking labels.

• Company’s MoA and AoA (attested).

• ISO 9001 compliance certificate.

• Circuit diagrams and layouts (for SMPs).

• BIS certificates (if applicable).

• Details of foreign manufacturers (if applicable).

For a complete list of necessary documents, refer to the official TEC guidelines.

Conclusion

TEC certification is essential for telecom product manufacturers, importers, and business owners in India. It ensures that products meet safety, quality, and performance standards, promoting business growth and preventing legal issues. By complying with TEC guidelines, businesses can enhance customer trust, eliminate substandard products, and gain easy market access.

For a smooth and hassle-free certification process, consult a TEC certification expert like Absolute Veritas. Their team of professionals will guide you through the entire process, ensuring compliance with all TEC requirements and helping your products succeed in the Indian market.

For any questions regarding the most recent update on TEC registration licenses, please reach out to us via email at cs@absoluteveritas.com