Wireless and radio frequency (RF) enabled products cannot be legally imported or sold in India without approval from the Wireless Planning & Coordination (WPC) Wing. One of the most important approvals issued by WPC is the ETA (Equipment Type Approval).
This blog explains everything you need to know about WPC ETA Certification in India, including the step-by-step process, required documents, fees, approval timeline, rejection reasons, application tracking, and specific guidance for importers.
What is WPC ETA Certification?
WPC ETA Certification is an official approval granted by the Wireless Planning & Coordination Wing, under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India.
ETA approval confirms that a wireless product:
- Operates in de-licensed frequency bands
- Meets prescribed RF emission limits
- Does not interfere with licensed spectrum users
Without WPC ETA, such products cannot clear Indian customs or be legally sold in the market.
Step-by-Step Process of WPC ETA Certification
The WPC ETA certification process is online and document-driven.
Step 1: Identify Product Frequency
Confirm that the product operates in de-licensed frequency bands permitted in India (such as 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz).
Step 2: RF Testing
The product must be tested in a NABL-accredited or internationally recognized laboratory to generate an RF test report.
Step 3: Prepare Documentation
All technical and legal documents must be compiled as per WPC requirements.
Step 4: Online Application Submission
The ETA application is submitted through the Saral Sanchar Portal of DoT.
Step 5: Review by WPC Authority
WPC verifies:
-
Frequency compliance
-
Test report authenticity
-
Applicant and product details
Step 6: Grant of ETA Certificate
Once approved, the WPC ETA certificate is issued digitally.
Documents Required for WPC ETA Approval
Accurate documentation is critical for successful approval.
Mandatory Documents Include:
-
RF test report
-
Product technical datasheet
-
Product photographs
-
Authorization letter from manufacturer
-
Company registration documents
-
Import Export Code (IEC)
-
ID and address proof of applicant
-
Declaration of frequency usage
For foreign manufacturers, authorization to an Indian applicant is compulsory.
How Long Does WPC ETA Certification Take in India?
The WPC ETA certification timeline depends on document readiness and test report accuracy.
Typical Timeline:
-
RF testing: 7–10 working days
-
Application review & approval: 10–20 working days
✅ Total time: Approximately 2 to 4 weeks
Delays usually occur due to incorrect frequency details or non-compliant test reports.
WPC ETA Certification Fees: Government & Testing Costs
WPC ETA certification involves two main cost components.
1. Government Fees
-
ETA application fee charged by WPC
-
Relatively nominal and product-based
2. Testing Fees
- RF testing charges depend on:
-
Product type
-
Frequency range
-
Lab selected
-
There is no recurring annual fee for ETA certification once approved.
Common Reasons for WPC ETA Application Rejection
Applications are often rejected due to avoidable mistakes.
Common Rejection Reasons:
-
Product operating in licensed frequency band
-
Invalid or non-recognized RF test report
-
Mismatch between test report and product details
-
Incorrect frequency or power specifications
-
Incomplete or incorrect documentation
-
Authorization letter errors
Careful review before submission significantly improves approval chances.
How to Track WPC ETA Application Status Online
Applicants can track ETA application status online.
Tracking Process:
1. Visit the Saral Sanchar Portal
2. Log in using registered credentials
3. Navigate to “My Applications”
4. Check real-time status:
-
-
Submitted
-
Under review
-
Approved
-
Query raised
-
If WPC raises a query, timely response is essential to avoid rejection.
WPC ETA Certification for Importers: Complete Guide
For importers, WPC ETA certification is mandatory before customs clearance.
Key Points for Importers:
-
ETA must be obtained before shipment arrival
-
Customs may hold or reject goods without ETA
-
One ETA can cover multiple shipments of the same model
-
Brand owners or importers can apply with manufacturer authorization
ETA approval ensures smooth customs clearance and avoids demurrage costs.
Products That Require WPC ETA Certification
Common products include:
-
Bluetooth devices
-
Wi-Fi routers and access points
-
Smart watches and wearables
-
Wireless speakers and headphones
-
IoT devices
-
RF remote controls
-
Wireless cameras
Any product using RF transmission in de-licensed bands requires ETA approval.
Conclusion
WPC ETA Certification is a mandatory regulatory requirement for wireless and RF-enabled products in India. Understanding the process, documentation, fees, timelines, and importer obligations helps businesses avoid delays, rejections, and customs issues.
Proper planning and compliance ensure faster approval, smooth imports, and legal market entry for wireless products in India.
How Pride Testing Services can help you with WPC Certification?
Navigating the WPC ETA certification process requires technical accuracy, correct documentation, and compliance with current regulatory requirements. Pride Testing supports businesses at every stage of the WPC ETA approval process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Pride Testing assists in identifying applicable frequency bands, coordinating RF testing through recognized laboratories, and verifying that test reports meet WPC acceptance criteria. The team also helps in preparing and reviewing technical documents, minimizing the risk of application rejection or delays.
For importers and manufacturers, Pride Testing provides guidance on authorization requirements, Saral Sanchar portal application filing, and query resolution raised by WPC authorities. With a compliance-focused approach, Pride Testing helps businesses achieve timely WPC ETA approval, avoid customs clearance issues, and ensure legal market entry for wireless products in India.