top of page
EMPL Main logo.png

TEC Testing and Certification

What is TEC Testing and Certification about?

TEC Testing and Certification refers to the approval process governed by the Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC), a technical body under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India.


It ensures that telecom and ICT (Information & Communication Technology) products comply with India’s mandatory technical and safety standards before they can be sold, imported, or deployed in the country.

​

Under TEC’s Mandatory Testing and Certification of Telecom Equipment (MTCTE) framework, every telecom and networking product must undergo testing and certification to:

  • Ensure it does not pose a threat to the public network,

  • Protect users from health and safety risks (like electromagnetic radiation),

  • Ensure compatibility and interoperability with Indian telecom networks.

Manufacturers and importers must get their products tested at designated TEC-approved laboratories and obtain TEC Certificate of Approval (CoA) before commercial launch.

​

Failure to comply can lead to import restrictions, market entry bans, and penalties.

At EMPL, we help businesses navigate the complex TEC testing and certification process — from documentation to lab testing to approvals — ensuring they enter the Indian telecom market quickly, compliantly, and confidently.

New Electronics

Which products are covered?

Some major categories of products covered under TEC Certification include: (TEC keeps expanding its product list periodically under different phases — businesses should always refer to the latest list based on their product category.)

Mobile phones and smartphones

Wi-Fi routers, modems, and access points

Optical fiber cables and network equipment

IoT (Internet of Things) devices

Smart meters and sensors

Point of Sale (POS) devices

IP security cameras and surveillance systems

Satellite communication equipment

  • The following entities must apply for TEC Testing and Certification:

    • Manufacturers (Indian or Foreign) of telecom and ICT equipment.

    • Importers who bring telecom equipment into India.

    • Brand Owners selling telecom products under their brand label, even if manufactured by third parties.

    • Authorized Indian Representatives (AIRs): Mandatory for foreign manufacturers without a physical presence in India.

    EMPL assists Indian and global brands alike by managing the entire TEC compliance process, ensuring that no opportunity is missed because of delayed certifications or compliance mistakes.

  • The typical timeline for TEC Testing and Certification includes:

    • Testing the product at a TEC Designated Conformity Assessment Body (CAB): 4 to 6 weeks (may vary depending on product complexity).

    • Application filing and document submission: 1 week.

    • Review, evaluation, and certification issuance by TEC: 4 to 8 weeks.

    Overall, TEC certification usually takes about 8 to 12 weeks from start to finish, provided all documents and testing parameters are correctly met.

    EMPL helps businesses pre-validate documentation, prepare samples according to TEC testing guidelines, and liaise with labs and authorities to ensure quicker, error-free certification.

  • Before applying for TEC Testing and Certification, applicants must ensure:

    • Product technical details and specifications are finalized.

    • Samples ready for submission to TEC-recognized testing laboratories (CABs).

    • Authorization letters (if applying through an Indian representative for foreign brands).

    • Test plans and test configurations ready, matching Indian telecom network standards.

    • Import Export Code (IEC), GST registration, and company incorporation documents.

    • Compliance with Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) and Electrical Safety norms (where applicable).

    EMPL offers pre-assessment services where we review product designs, documentation, and potential compliance risks before beginning the actual testing — saving businesses time, money, and rework during the TEC approval phase.

  • Yes, for all products notified under the MTCTE regime. Products falling under the phased notification lists must undergo mandatory TEC testing and certification before import, sale, or usage in India.

  • No. A foreign manufacturer must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) who will handle TEC registration and certification on their behalf.

  • Non-compliant products can face customs seizure, fines, and legal action. Import and sales of non-certified telecom equipment are illegal under Indian telecom regulations.

  • EMPL offers end-to-end TEC compliance support — helping businesses manage product testing, regulatory documentation, sample submissions, and certification follow-ups — ensuring smooth, compliant market entry.

bottom of page