TEC Certification for Telecom Equipment Approval

TEC Certification for Telecom Equipment Approval. The TEC Certification for Telecom Equipment Approval is an essential regulatory requirement for manufacturers, importers, and dealers of telecom products in India. The certification is issued by the Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC), which operates under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India. This certification ensures that telecom equipment is tested, certified, and aligned with safety and performance standards before being sold, imported, or used in the country.
What is a TEC Certification?
TEC Certification is designed to ensure that all telecom products and equipment comply with national and international safety and quality standards. The certification is mandatory for certain categories of telecom products under the Indian Telegraph Rules, 2017. Whether you are an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), importer, or dealer, obtaining TEC Certification is the key to legally marketing telecom equipment in India.
The certification is also referred to as MTCTE (Mandatory Testing and Certification of Telecom Equipment) and CSC TEC Certificate. It applies to a wide range of equipment, from modems to ISDN devices, and aims to maintain the integrity of telecom networks in India.
Historical Background of the Telecom Industry
The telecom industry in India has seen rapid growth since the early 2000s. With globalization and advancements in communication technology, telecom services have expanded in scope and reach. The telecom sector comprises three major segments:

Telecom Equipment: Devices such as modems, gateways, and routers.

Telecom Services: Voice and data services offered by network providers.

Wireless Communication: Mobile communication and related technologies.

The rise of mobile networks, internet penetration, and smart devices has increased the demand for reliable and safe telecom equipment. Hence, the Government of India introduced the TEC framework to regulate equipment quality and safety.
Benefits of TEC Certification for Telecom Equipment Approval
The following are the benefits of TEC Certification in India:
Compliance with Standards
TEC Certification ensures that telecom equipment complies with both national and international technical standards. This includes safety, performance, electromagnetic compatibility, and environmental norms.
Builds Product Trust and Confidence
A certified product boosts trust among consumers and stakeholders. When telecom equipment is TEC certified, it indicates that the product has passed stringent tests and meets required benchmarks.
Facilitates Legal Marketing
With TEC Certification, products can be legally imported, manufactured, or sold in India. This facilitates business operations and eliminates the risk of regulatory penalties or bans.
Improves Network Performance
Telecom products that fail to meet quality standards can degrade network performance. TEC Certification ensures that only high-quality products enter the network, thus maintaining its reliability.
Customer Assurance
Certified telecom products offer assurance to end-users about the safety and efficiency of the equipment. This is especially important for businesses and government installations.
Encourages Fair Competition
TEC Certification sets a level playing field for all manufacturers and suppliers. By requiring all players to meet the same standards, it promotes healthy competition in the telecom industry.
Eligibility Criteria for TEC (MTCTE) Certification

Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs): Indian or foreign manufacturers of telecom products.

Importers: Businesses that import telecom equipment into India.

Dealers: Entities that wish to sell telecom products within India.

Conditions for Foreign OEMs
Foreign manufacturers must appoint an authorized Indian representative to act on their behalf. This representative company will handle all formalities related to the TEC Certification process.
Required Agreements
If a foreign OEM is involved, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) must be signed between the OEM and the Indian representative company.
Legal Status of Applicants
Indian applicants must provide valid legal documents proving their business registration. This is essential to ensure that only verified companies apply for the certification.
Test Reports
Approved test reports from TEC-recognized Indian laboratories are mandatory. These reports must confirm that the product complies with TEC’s technical standards.
Branding and Trademark Details
Applicants are required to submit the branding, trademark, and product model details as part of the certification process.
Documents Required for TEC Certification
To apply for TEC Certification, the following documents must be submitted:

Application Form duly filled with all details.

Valid Test Reports from TEC-approved labs.

Compliance Declaration signed by an authorized signatory.

Authorization Letter for Indian representatives (if applicable).

Certificate of Incorporation, if any.

Manufacturing Process Details outlining the production steps.

Trademark Registration certificate for brand validation.

Bill of Materials (BoM) listing all components used in the product.

Brand Name, Product Name, and Model Number.

Sample(s), User Manual, and Product Accessories.

Marking Label Copy used on the product.

PCB Layout and Circuit Diagrams.

SMPS Circuit or Power Supply Diagram.

Product Configuration Details needed for functional testing.

ISO 9001 Certificate for quality assurance.

Application Process for TEC Certification
Step 1: Filing of Application: The application must be submitted online or offline with all supporting documents. Once submitted, no major changes can be made to the application.
Step 2: Document Scrutiny: TEC officials will evaluate all submitted documents. If discrepancies or missing information are found, applicants will be notified to rectify them.
Step 3: Submission of Variant and Product Details: Applicants must provide detailed variant information of the telecom product, including technical specifications, BoM, and datasheets.
Step 4: Payment of Fees: Once the application is reviewed, the applicant must pay the prescribed fees for certification.
Step 5: Selection of Conformity Assessment Body (CAB): Applicants must select a TEC-recognized Conformity Assessment Body. Testing can also be done in labs from MRA (Mutual Recognition Agreement) partner countries.
Step 6: Grant of TEC Certificate: After successful evaluation of test results and verification, TEC issues the certification, allowing the product to be marketed legally in India.
Products Covered and Exempted under TEC Certification
Products Covered

IoT Gateway

Modems

Cordless Phones

DSL Devices

Microwave Communication Devices

Executive Phone Systems

Coin-based Telephones (NSD/ISD)

Electronic Telephone Instruments

Key Telephone Instruments

G3 Fax Machines

Optical Fiber Cables

Internet Protocol (IP) Terminals

ISDN CPE Devices

CLIP Phones

Products Exempted

Consumer Electronics (TV, Refrigerator)

Household Appliances

Medical Devices

Industrial Machinery

General Purpose Electronic Components

Audio-Visual Devices

Interfaces like Bluetooth and Wi-Fi

Types of Voluntary Testing Certifications (CSC Certifications)
Type Approval: This approval involves testing a product based on the TEC's Test Schedule and Procedures. It confirms that the product meets the Generic Requirements (GR) for telecom equipment.
Interface Approval: Products are tested and certified based on Interface Requirements (IR). This ensures compatibility and functionality within telecom networks.
Technology Approval: Granted to prototypes developed by C-DoT or R&D institutions, this approval verifies that the technology meets established Generic Requirements before it is commercially produced.
Functions of the Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC)

Formulates Generic and Interface Requirements for telecom products.

Conducts Mandatory Testing and Certification of Telecom Equipment (MTCTE).

Performs field testing and evaluation to validate product functionality.

Authorizes Conformity Assessment Bodies (CABs) for testing telecom equipment.

Provides official TEC certificates based on test evaluations.

Assists the Department of Telecommunications with technical and policy-related input.

Conclusion
Obtaining TEC Certification for Telecom Equipment Approval is essential for ensuring quality, compliance, and trust in India’s telecom ecosystem. From setting up a legal entity, submitting test reports, and paying fees to receiving the TEC certificate, the process involves rigorous scrutiny that benefits all stakeholders—manufacturers, dealers, telecom operators, and end-users.
The role of the Telecommunication Engineering Centre is pivotal in maintaining a robust and secure telecom infrastructure in the country. By ensuring only certified and tested products enter the Indian market, the TEC helps uphold safety, network performance, and regulatory compliance.
Whether you are an OEM, importer, or dealer, securing TEC Certification is important, so if you want to apply for this certification, then you can connect or book a consultation with Compliance Calendar LLP experts through email at info@ccoffice.in or Call/Whatsapp at +91 9988424211.
FAQs
Q1. What is TEC Certification and why is it required?
Ans. TEC Certification is issued by the Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC) under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India. It is mandatory for certain telecom products before they can be imported, manufactured, or sold in India. The certification ensures that the equipment complies with safety, technical, and quality standards and does not adversely affect the telecom network.
Q2. Who needs to apply for TEC Certification in India?
Ans. TEC Certification must be obtained by Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), importers, or dealers who wish to sell, manufacture, or import telecom equipment in India. Foreign manufacturers must appoint an Indian Authorized Representative to complete the certification process.
Q3. What types of products require TEC Certification?
Ans. Products such as modems, IoT gateways, optical fiber cables, cordless phones, G3 fax machines, ISDN CPE devices, and other telecom equipment that directly interface with telecom networks need TEC Certification. The full list is notified by the TEC under the Indian Telegraph Rules, 2017.
Q4. Are there any products exempted from TEC Certification?
Ans. Yes, consumer electronics like televisions and refrigerators, general-purpose electronics, medical equipment, audio-visual devices, and interfaces such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are exempt from TEC Certification as they do not directly connect to telecom networks.
Q5. What are the key documents required for TEC Certification?
Ans. Applicants must submit various documents including the application form, valid test reports, compliance declaration, authorization letter (if applicable), manufacturing process details, trademark registration, Bill of Material, circuit diagrams, ISO 9001 certificate, and product samples with user manuals.
Q6. How long does it take to obtain a TEC Certificate?
Ans. The timeline varies depending on the product, document verification, and test result evaluation. On average, the process may take 4–8 weeks from the date of submission, provided all documents and test results are complete and correct.
Q7. What happens if I sell telecom products in India without TEC Certification? 
Ans. Selling telecom products without obtaining TEC Certification is a violation of the Indian Telegraph Rules, 2017. It can lead to penalties, seizure of goods, cancellation of licenses, and legal action by regulatory authorities.
Q8. Can I use international lab test reports for TEC Certification?
Ans. Yes, test reports from laboratories in Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) partner countries may be accepted if the labs are recognized by TEC. However, the applicant must ensure that the product meets the required Indian standards and provide a detailed summary of the test results.

The TEC Certification for Telecom Equipment Approval is an essential regulatory requirement for manufacturers, importers, and dealers of telecom products in India. The certification is issued by the Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC), which operates under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India. This certification ensures that telecom equipment is tested, certified, and aligned with safety and performance standards before being sold, imported, or used in the country.

What is a TEC Certification?

TEC Certification is designed to ensure that all telecom products and equipment comply with national and international safety and quality standards. The certification is mandatory for certain categories of telecom products under the Indian Telegraph Rules, 2017. Whether you are an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), importer, or dealer, obtaining TEC Certification is the key to legally marketing telecom equipment in India.

The certification is also referred to as MTCTE (Mandatory Testing and Certification of Telecom Equipment) and CSC TEC Certificate. It applies to a wide range of equipment, from modems to ISDN devices, and aims to maintain the integrity of telecom networks in India.

Historical Background of the Telecom Industry

The telecom industry in India has seen rapid growth since the early 2000s. With globalization and advancements in communication technology, telecom services have expanded in scope and reach. The telecom sector comprises three major segments:

Telecom Equipment: Devices such as modems, gateways, and routers.
Telecom Services: Voice and data services offered by network providers.
Wireless Communication: Mobile communication and related technologies.

Benefits of TEC Certification for Telecom Equipment Approval

The following are the benefits of TEC Certification in India:

Compliance with Standards

TEC Certification ensures that telecom equipment complies with both national and international technical standards. This includes safety, performance, electromagnetic compatibility, and environmental norms.

Builds Product Trust and Confidence

A certified product boosts trust among consumers and stakeholders. When telecom equipment is TEC certified, it indicates that the product has passed stringent tests and meets required benchmarks.

Facilitates Legal Marketing

With TEC Certification, products can be legally imported, manufactured, or sold in India. This facilitates business operations and eliminates the risk of regulatory penalties or bans.

Improves Network Performance

Telecom products that fail to meet quality standards can degrade network performance. TEC Certification ensures that only high-quality products enter the network, thus maintaining its reliability.

Customer Assurance

Certified telecom products offer assurance to end-users about the safety and efficiency of the equipment. This is especially important for businesses and government installations.

Encourages Fair Competition

TEC Certification sets a level playing field for all manufacturers and suppliers. By requiring all players to meet the same standards, it promotes healthy competition in the telecom industry.

Eligibility Criteria for TEC (MTCTE) Certification

Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs): Indian or foreign manufacturers of telecom products.
Importers: Businesses that import telecom equipment into India.
Dealers: Entities that wish to sell telecom products within India.

Conditions for Foreign OEMs

Foreign manufacturers must appoint an authorized Indian representative to act on their behalf. This representative company will handle all formalities related to the TEC Certification process.

Required Agreements

If a foreign OEM is involved, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) must be signed between the OEM and the Indian representative company.

Legal Status of Applicants

Indian applicants must provide valid legal documents proving their business registration. This is essential to ensure that only verified companies apply for the certification.

Test Reports

Approved test reports from TEC-recognized Indian laboratories are mandatory. These reports must confirm that the product complies with TEC’s technical standards.

Branding and Trademark Details

Applicants are required to submit the branding, trademark, and product model details as part of the certification process.

Documents Required for TEC Certification

To apply for TEC Certification, the following documents must be submitted:

Application Form duly filled with all details.
Valid Test Reports from TEC-approved labs.
Compliance Declaration signed by an authorized signatory.
Authorization Letter for Indian representatives (if applicable).
Certificate of Incorporation, if any.
Manufacturing Process Details outlining the production steps.
Trademark Registration certificate for brand validation.
Bill of Materials (BoM) listing all components used in the product.
Brand Name, Product Name, and Model Number.
Sample(s), User Manual, and Product Accessories.
Marking Label Copy used on the product.
PCB Layout and Circuit Diagrams.
SMPS Circuit or Power Supply Diagram.
Product Configuration Details needed for functional testing.
ISO 9001 Certificate for quality assurance.

Application Process for TEC Certification

Step 1: Filing of Application: The application must be submitted online or offline with all supporting documents. Once submitted, no major changes can be made to the application.

Step 2: Document Scrutiny: TEC officials will evaluate all submitted documents. If discrepancies or missing information are found, applicants will be notified to rectify them.

Step 3: Submission of Variant and Product Details: Applicants must provide detailed variant information of the telecom product, including technical specifications, BoM, and datasheets.

Step 4: Payment of Fees: Once the application is reviewed, the applicant must pay the prescribed fees for certification.

Step 5: Selection of Conformity Assessment Body (CAB): Applicants must select a TEC-recognized Conformity Assessment Body. Testing can also be done in labs from MRA (Mutual Recognition Agreement) partner countries.

Step 6: Grant of TEC Certificate: After successful evaluation of test results and verification, TEC issues the certification, allowing the product to be marketed legally in India.

Products Covered and Exempted under TEC Certification

Products Covered

IoT Gateway
Modems
Cordless Phones
DSL Devices
Microwave Communication Devices
Executive Phone Systems
Coin-based Telephones (NSD/ISD)
Electronic Telephone Instruments
Key Telephone Instruments
G3 Fax Machines
Optical Fiber Cables
Internet Protocol (IP) Terminals
ISDN CPE Devices
CLIP Phones

Products Exempted

Consumer Electronics (TV, Refrigerator)
Household Appliances
Medical Devices
Industrial Machinery
General Purpose Electronic Components
Audio-Visual Devices
Interfaces like Bluetooth and Wi-Fi

Types of Voluntary Testing Certifications (CSC Certifications)

Type Approval: This approval involves testing a product based on the TEC's Test Schedule and Procedures. It confirms that the product meets the Generic Requirements (GR) for telecom equipment.

Interface Approval: Products are tested and certified based on Interface Requirements (IR). This ensures compatibility and functionality within telecom networks.

Technology Approval: Granted to prototypes developed by C-DoT or R&D institutions, this approval verifies that the technology meets established Generic Requirements before it is commercially produced.

Functions of the Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC)

Formulates Generic and Interface Requirements for telecom products.
Conducts Mandatory Testing and Certification of Telecom Equipment (MTCTE).
Performs field testing and evaluation to validate product functionality.
Authorizes Conformity Assessment Bodies (CABs) for testing telecom equipment.
Provides official TEC certificates based on test evaluations.
Assists the Department of Telecommunications with technical and policy-related input.

Conclusion

Obtaining TEC Certification for Telecom Equipment Approval is essential for ensuring quality, compliance, and trust in India’s telecom ecosystem. From setting up a legal entity, submitting test reports, and paying fees to receiving the TEC certificate, the process involves rigorous scrutiny that benefits all stakeholders—manufacturers, dealers, telecom operators, and end-users.

The role of the Telecommunication Engineering Centre is pivotal in maintaining a robust and secure telecom infrastructure in the country. By ensuring only certified and tested products enter the Indian market, the TEC helps uphold safety, network performance, and regulatory compliance.

Whether you are an OEM, importer, or dealer, securing TEC Certification is important, so if you want to apply for this certification, then you can connect or book a consultation with Compliance Calendar LLP experts through email at info@ccoffice.in or Call/Whatsapp at +91 9988424211.

FAQs

Q1. What is TEC Certification and why is it required?

Ans. TEC Certification is issued by the Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC) under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India. It is mandatory for certain telecom products before they can be imported, manufactured, or sold in India. The certification ensures that the equipment complies with safety, technical, and quality standards and does not adversely affect the telecom network.

Q2. Who needs to apply for TEC Certification in India?

Ans. TEC Certification must be obtained by Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), importers, or dealers who wish to sell, manufacture, or import telecom equipment in India. Foreign manufacturers must appoint an Indian Authorized Representative to complete the certification process.

Q3. What types of products require TEC Certification?

Ans. Products such as modems, IoT gateways, optical fiber cables, cordless phones, G3 fax machines, ISDN CPE devices, and other telecom equipment that directly interface with telecom networks need TEC Certification. The full list is notified by the TEC under the Indian Telegraph Rules, 2017.

Q4. Are there any products exempted from TEC Certification?

Ans. Yes, consumer electronics like televisions and refrigerators, general-purpose electronics, medical equipment, audio-visual devices, and interfaces such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are exempt from TEC Certification as they do not directly connect to telecom networks.

Q5. What are the key documents required for TEC Certification?

Ans. Applicants must submit various documents including the application form, valid test reports, compliance declaration, authorization letter (if applicable), manufacturing process details, trademark registration, Bill of Material, circuit diagrams, ISO 9001 certificate, and product samples with user manuals.

Q6. How long does it take to obtain a TEC Certificate?

Ans. The timeline varies depending on the product, document verification, and test result evaluation. On average, the process may take 4–8 weeks from the date of submission, provided all documents and test results are complete and correct.

Q7. What happens if I sell telecom products in India without TEC Certification?

Ans. Selling telecom products without obtaining TEC Certification is a violation of the Indian Telegraph Rules, 2017. It can lead to penalties, seizure of goods, cancellation of licenses, and legal action by regulatory authorities.

Q8. Can I use international lab test reports for TEC Certification?

Ans. Yes, test reports from laboratories in Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) partner countries may be accepted if the labs are recognized by TEC. However, the applicant must ensure that the product meets the required Indian standards and provide a detailed summary of the test results.