The TEC certification process in India involves identifying the applicable product requirements, registering the eligible applicant, preparing technical documentation, completing the required testing and submitting an application through the official MTCTE portal. Equipment covered by applicable notifications must obtain the required Certificate of Conformity Assessment, subject to the relevant rules and exemptions. The process may differ depending on the product category, applicable Essential Requirements (ERs), certification scheme and applicant type.
Planning to manufacture, import or sell telecommunication equipment in India? Before launching your product, you need to determine whether it falls under the Mandatory Testing and Certification of Telecommunication Equipment (MTCTE) framework.
The TEC certification process in India involves identifying the applicable product requirements, registering the eligible applicant, preparing technical documentation, completing the required testing and submitting an application through the official MTCTE portal. Equipment covered by applicable notifications must obtain the required Certificate of Conformity Assessment, subject to the relevant rules and exemptions.
The process may differ depending on the product category, applicable Essential Requirements (ERs), certification scheme and applicant type.
In this guide, Rego Services explains the MTCTE application process step by step, including eligibility, documents, testing, application submission, common mistakes and important points to check before applying.
If you need an overview of the broader regulatory framework, read our TEC Certification in India: Complete Guide to MTCTE. For assistance with your application, visit our TEC Certification Services page.
📑 Table of Contents
- What Is the TEC Certification Process?
- Step 1: Check Whether Your Product Requires TEC Certification
- Step 2: Confirm Applicant Eligibility
- Step 3: Register a New User and Applicant Profile
- Step 4: Prepare Product Details and Bill of Materials
- Step 5: Identify the Applicable Testing Requirements
- Step 6: Arrange Testing Through the Applicable Laboratory Route
- Step 7: Select the Applicable Certification Scheme
- Step 8: Submit the MTCTE Application
- Step 9: Respond to Application Queries
- Step 10: Receive the Certificate and Verify Its Details
- How Long Does the TEC Certification Process Take?
- Common Mistakes to Avoid During TEC Certification
- TEC Certification Process Checklist
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Need Assistance With the TEC Certification Process?
- Related TEC Certification Guides
What Is the TEC Certification Process?
TEC certification is a commonly used term for approval and conformity assessment processes associated with the Telecommunication Engineering Centre under the Department of Telecommunications.
For telecommunication equipment covered by mandatory requirements, the relevant process is generally carried out under the MTCTE framework.
The MTCTE process assesses whether notified equipment complies with the applicable Essential Requirements. These may include electromagnetic compatibility, safety, technical parameters and security requirements where applicable.
The official DoT portal outlines the main application stages as:
Applicants should follow the current portal instructions and procedure because requirements may vary by product and certification scheme.
Official resources: MTCTE Portal | DoT MTCTE Information.
Step 1: Check Whether Your Product Requires TEC Certification
Before registering an application, confirm whether your product is covered by an applicable MTCTE notification.
Do not assume that every electronic, networking or wireless product automatically requires the same certification.
How to check product applicability
- Identify the product's name, model and intended technical function.
- Review the current MTCTE phase-wise product list.
- Identify the applicable Essential Requirements.
- Check the applicable General Certification Scheme (GCS) or Simplified Certification Scheme (SCS), where relevant.
- Review any additional security requirements, exemptions or product-specific notifications.
The product classification determines the applicable testing and certification route.
Read our complete TEC Certification Guide for an overview of product eligibility and regulatory requirements.
Step 2: Confirm Applicant Eligibility
The official MTCTE information identifies two principal applicant categories:
An eligible Indian OEM manufacturing telecommunication equipment in India may register and apply according to the applicable procedure.
A foreign OEM generally needs an eligible Indian representative authorised to undertake the applicable MTCTE responsibilities for imported equipment.
The precise eligibility and authorisation requirements must be confirmed against the current official procedure.
Before proceeding, ensure that the applicant's legal details, authorisation arrangements and company documentation are in order.
Official reference: MTCTE Application Guidance.
Step 3: Register a New User and Applicant Profile
The next stage is to register on the official MTCTE portal.
Applicants must follow the portal's instructions for creating a user account and registering the relevant OEM or AIR profile.
The registration documentation may include:
- Company incorporation or registration documents.
- An authorisation letter for the person handling the application.
- Relevant OEM or AIR authorisation documents.
- Other documents prescribed for the applicant category.
The exact documents depend on the applicant's legal structure and circumstances.
Ensure that the information submitted is accurate and consistent. Incorrect registration details or inadequate authorisation documents can cause problems before the product application reaches the assessment stage.
Portal: Official MTCTE Registration.
Step 4: Prepare Product Details and Bill of Materials
After applicant registration, prepare the product information required for the applicable application and pre-check.
This may include the model details, technical specifications and Bill of Materials (BoM).
A BoM records the major modules and components used in the product configuration, as required by the applicable procedure.
What should you verify?
- Product and model identifiers are consistent.
- Technical specifications match the product being submitted.
- The declared configuration is accurate.
- The BoM contains the information required by the portal.
- Supporting documents refer to the correct product and model.
Incomplete or inconsistent technical information can lead to additional clarification requests.
Use the current MTCTE user instructions to confirm the prescribed format and required information.
Step 5: Identify the Applicable Testing Requirements
Before arranging testing, identify the Essential Requirements applicable to the product.
Depending on the product category, these may cover:
- EMI/EMC requirements.
- Electrical and user-safety requirements.
- Product-specific technical parameters.
- Applicable security requirements.
- Other requirements identified in the relevant ER or notification.
Not all products require identical tests.
Applicants should confirm the relevant test parameters and laboratory arrangements through the official portal before submitting samples or commissioning testing.
Official reference: TEC Essential Requirements.
Step 6: Arrange Testing Through the Applicable Laboratory Route
Testing must follow the current MTCTE procedure and the requirements applicable to the product.
Before selecting a laboratory, verify:
- Whether it is designated or otherwise accepted for the relevant testing route.
- Whether the required parameters are within its accepted testing scope.
- Whether the proposed test reports satisfy the current procedure.
- Whether any product-specific conditions apply.
Do not assume that general laboratory accreditation automatically establishes eligibility for every MTCTE test.
The official procedure also contains provisions relating to the acceptance of certain reports from international laboratories. Such acceptance is subject to the applicable notification and conditions.
Applicants should verify the current position before relying on external test reports.
Step 7: Select the Applicable Certification Scheme
The MTCTE framework includes General Certification Scheme (GCS) and Simplified Certification Scheme (SCS) categories for equipment classified under the respective lists.
The applicable scheme must be confirmed against the current official product classification.
Under the applicable procedure, the applicant submits test-wise compliance information and the required test reports. The relevant compliance assessment is carried out according to the prescribed requirements.
The applicant submits the required test-wise compliance information and reports according to the SCS procedure. The assessment process differs from GCS as specified in the applicable procedure.
The scheme should not be selected solely because it appears faster or simpler. The product's classification determines the appropriate route.
Step 8: Submit the MTCTE Application
After preparing the required information and test documentation, submit the application through the official portal.
Depending on the applicable scheme and procedure, the submission may include:
- Product and model information.
- Test-wise compliance information.
- Test reports.
- Prescribed declarations or undertakings.
- Other required supporting documents.
- Applicable fee-payment details.
Review the entire submission before finalising it.
Check that the application, technical documentation and test reports refer to the same product configuration and cover the applicable requirements.
Step 9: Respond to Application Queries
During the assessment, the authority may require clarification or additional information, where applicable.
If a query is raised:
- Read the request carefully.
- Identify the specific document, test parameter or technical detail involved.
- Provide an accurate response with the required supporting evidence.
- Ensure any revised information remains consistent with the application.
- Follow the portal's instructions for resubmission.
Unclear responses or inconsistent revised documents may cause additional delays.
Applicants should monitor their portal account and follow the official communication process.
Step 10: Receive the Certificate and Verify Its Details
Where the application satisfies the applicable requirements, the relevant Certificate of Conformity Assessment may be issued.
After issuance, verify:
- Certificate number and details.
- Product and model coverage.
- Applicable conditions.
- Certificate validity information.
- Any requirements for display, marking or product identification.
- Applicable conditions for model additions or subsequent changes.
Do not assume that certification of one model automatically covers every product variant.
The issued certificate and current procedure should be used to determine the scope of the approval and any continuing obligations.
MTCTE Procedure v3.0 (TEC 93009:2024) and ILAC Test Reports
The current certification procedure is MTCTE Procedure v3.0 (TEC 93009:2024), which covers scope, certification schemes, fees and labelling. For some products and parameters, TEC has accepted test reports from ILAC-signatory laboratories as an alternative to TEC-designated labs, subject to conditions in product-wise notifications. Those conditions have included which parameters are covered and limits on labs in countries that share a land border with India, and safety and EMC reports were treated differently for some phases. Check the notification for your product before booking a lab, and see the documents checklist for what the lab report must contain.
Note: Requirements, dates and exemptions are set by TEC notifications and can change. Confirm the current position on the official MTCTE portal before relying on this summary.
How Long Does the TEC Certification Process Take?
The total timeline depends on the product category, applicable scheme, testing requirements, laboratory availability, documentation readiness and the time needed to resolve queries.
The testing period and the subsequent certification assessment are separate parts of the overall process.
Rather than relying on a single generic timeline, applicants should confirm the relevant procedure and obtain a product-specific estimate after identifying the applicable tests.
For planning purposes, prepare the product documentation early and confirm laboratory availability before finalising your launch schedule.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During TEC Certification
Incorrect classification can result in the wrong testing plan or application route. How to avoid it: Check the current official product list and applicable Essential Requirements first.
Missing authorisation documents, inconsistent model details or incomplete technical files can lead to queries. How to avoid it: Use the current portal instructions and review the submission before applying.
A report may not meet the requirements for the relevant product or test parameter. How to avoid it: Verify laboratory designation, scope and report acceptance conditions before testing.
Different model configurations may require separate assessment or an applicable associated-model procedure. How to avoid it: Confirm the coverage of the application and certificate for each relevant model.
Official requirements, product lists and procedures can change. How to avoid it: Check the current MTCTE portal and relevant notifications before submitting the application.
TEC Certification Process Checklist
Before starting your application, confirm the following:
- Product classification and MTCTE applicability verified.
- Applicable Essential Requirements identified.
- Correct applicant category established.
- OEM or AIR documentation prepared, where applicable.
- Applicant registration completed.
- Product details and BoM prepared.
- Testing requirements and laboratory arrangements verified.
- Applicable certification scheme confirmed.
- Required reports and declarations prepared.
- Application reviewed and submitted.
- Application status and queries monitored.
- Issued certificate and covered models verified.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I apply for TEC certification in India?
First confirm whether the product is covered by MTCTE. Register the eligible applicant on the official portal, prepare product details and the required BoM, arrange the applicable testing, submit the application and supporting reports, and follow the assessment process.
2. Who can apply for MTCTE certification?
The official framework identifies eligible Indian OEMs and authorised Indian representatives of foreign OEMs. The exact eligibility and documentation requirements should be confirmed from the current procedure.
3. Is product testing required for TEC certification?
The testing and reporting requirements depend on the product, applicable Essential Requirements and certification scheme. Applicants must follow the current procedure and verify the acceptable testing route.
4. What is the difference between GCS and SCS?
GCS and SCS are different certification schemes under MTCTE. Their applicability depends on the official product classification, and their assessment procedures differ as prescribed by the applicable procedure.
5. Can a foreign manufacturer apply directly?
Foreign manufacturers may need an eligible authorised Indian representative for the MTCTE application. Confirm the current applicant eligibility and authorisation requirements before proceeding.
6. How much does TEC certification cost?
The cost depends on the applicable official fees, testing requirements, product configuration and other relevant expenses. Check the current fee schedule and obtain a testing estimate for your product.
7. How can I check my MTCTE application status?
Use the official MTCTE portal and follow its current instructions for accessing the applicant account and checking application status.
8. Where can I find the latest MTCTE procedure?
Visit the official MTCTE portal and its downloads section for the current procedure, user instructions, notifications and applicable requirements.
✓ Key Takeaways
- First confirm that your product is covered by an applicable MTCTE notification
- The applicant is an Indian OEM or the Authorised Indian Representative of a foreign OEM
- Register on the official MTCTE portal, then prepare product details and the Bill of Materials
- Identify the applicable Essential Requirements before arranging testing
- Confirm the GCS or SCS route against the current official product classification
- Respond accurately and consistently to any application queries
- Verify the certificate details and the models it covers after issuance
- Check the official portal for current procedures, fees and notifications
Reviewed by the Rego Services Compliance Team | Last Updated: October 2026 | Sources: MTCTE portal, TEC, Department of Telecommunications
Need Assistance With the TEC Certification Process?
Understanding product applicability, testing requirements and documentation is an important part of preparing a compliant application.
Rego Services Pvt. Ltd. can assist businesses with compliance planning, documentation preparation and guidance on the relevant TEC/MTCTE requirements.
If you are preparing to manufacture, import or launch telecommunication equipment in India, visit our TEC Certification Services page to discuss your product and the next steps.
Official references
Related TEC Certification Guides
Each guide below covers one stage of getting your TEC certificate in India under MTCTE.
- How to check the MTCTE product list — verify notified products and mandatory dates
- Products requiring TEC certification — which telecom and ICT products are covered
- Documents required for TEC certification — OEM, AIR and product document checklist
- TEC certification fees in India — administrative, evaluation and lab testing costs
- TEC vs BIS vs WPC approval — which approval applies to your product
- TEC Certificate in India: complete guide — the parent guide to MTCTE